Engine Controls - Basic Diagnostic Procedures - Except Coupe: Introduction

The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a No-Start condition. The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the customer's complaint with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred.

Before proceeding with basic diagnostic procedures, ensure testing procedure is followed, as some systems which may result in a No-Start condition may cause a Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) to be stored in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). See the following:

On 2.4L, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN & STRATUS SEDAN - 2.4L article.
On 2.7L, see DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, SEBRING SEDAN & STRATUS SEDAN - 2.7L article.

If No-Start condition still exists after checking and repairing all DTCs, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Many problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. See VISUAL INSPECTION under PRELIMINARY INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENTS. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.

NOTE: Perform all voltage tests with a Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) with a minimum 10-megohm input impedance, unless stated otherwise in test procedure.