Safety Recall #C02

Reprogram Diesel Engine Control Module

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Date: March 2003

Models: 2003 (DR) Dodge 2500 and 3500 Pick Up Truck

NOTE: This recall applies only to the above trucks equipped with a 5.9L turbo diesel engine (sales code ETC or ETH), a manual transmission and speed control (sales code NHM) built at the St. Louis Assembly Plant ("J" in the 11th VIN Position) through December 24, 2002 (MDH 1224XX) or the Saltillo Assembly Plant ("G" in the 11th VIN Position) through December 29, 2002 (MDH 1229XX).

IMPORTANT: Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to stop sale and complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service. Involved vehicles can be determined by determined by using the VIP inquiry process.

Subject:

The Engine Control Module (ECM) on about 19,900 of the above trucks may cause an increased engine idle speed after extended speed control usage. This could increase the truck's stopping distance and cause an accident without warning.

Repair:

The ECM must be reprogrammed (flashed).

CAUTION: Failure to follow the attached service procedure may result in a no-start condition on vehicles equipped with a Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM).

Parts Information:

Since the required labels are likely already in dealer inventory, no labels will be distributed initially. Additional Labels may be ordered as necessary to support scheduled repairs.

Each vehicle requires application of the following labels:

Service Procedure:

The MDS2 (Mopar Diagnostic System) with the DRB III (Diagnostic Readout Box scan tool) operating at CIS CD2127 or higher is required to perform this repair.

A. Reprogram the ECM:

B. Install Authorized Software Update Label:

Type or print (with a ballpoint pen) the part number, dealer code and date on the Authorized Software Update Label (Figure 1) and attach it to the PCM. Cover the label with the clear plastic portion of the label.

Figure 1

C. Install the Authorized Modifications Label:

Type or print (with a ballpoint pen) the recall number, dealer code and date on the Authorized Modifications

Completion Reporting and Reimbursement

Claims for vehicles which have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.

Use one of the following labor operation number and time allowance:

NOTE: See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions.

Parts Return: Not Applicable

Dealer Notification and Vehicle List

All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS, and the MDS2 will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.

DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP

All involved vehicles have been entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP for dealer inquiry as needed.

Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "ORDC02".

Owner Notification and Service Scheduling

All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers.

Enclosed with each owner letter is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.

This page was edited on: May 3, 2004