Dealing with a stubborn check engine light on your Chrysler Concorde? It’s a common frustration when your OBD II scanner refuses to clear those trouble codes. As a seasoned auto repair expert at obd2scanner.store, I understand how irritating it can be. This guide is designed to help you diagnose why your Chrysler Concorde OBD II scanner won’t clear codes, and what steps you can take to resolve the issue.
Alt text: Locating the OBD II port underneath the dashboard of a vehicle, a crucial step for diagnostic scanning and code clearing.
Understanding OBD-II and Code Clearing Basics
Before diving into Chrysler Concorde specifics, let’s cover some OBD-II fundamentals. OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) is a standardized system in vehicles post-1996 that monitors engine and emission control systems. When something goes wrong, the system generates Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), illuminating the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), commonly known as the “check engine light.”
An OBD-II scanner is your tool to communicate with the vehicle’s computer, read these DTCs, and ideally, clear them after addressing the underlying issue. However, sometimes, the scanner might refuse to clear codes, leaving you puzzled.
Common Reasons Why Your OBD II Scanner Won’t Clear Codes on a Chrysler Concorde
Several factors can prevent your OBD II scanner from clearing codes on your Chrysler Concorde. Let’s explore the most frequent culprits:
1. The Fault is Still Present
This is the most common reason. OBD-II systems are designed to detect and report problems. If the underlying issue that triggered the code persists, the system will immediately re-detect it, and your scanner won’t be able to permanently clear the code. It will often reappear as soon as you turn the ignition back on or shortly after starting the engine.
Solution: Don’t just clear the codes and hope for the best. Instead:
- Read the codes carefully: Note down all the DTCs your scanner retrieves. These codes are your clues to the problem area.
- Diagnose the issue: Use the DTCs to pinpoint the malfunctioning system or component. Resources like repair manuals, online forums, and professional diagnostic databases can be invaluable.
- Repair the fault: Address the root cause of the problem. This could involve replacing a faulty sensor, repairing a vacuum leak, fixing wiring issues, or more complex repairs.
Alt text: A technician using an OBD II scanner to read diagnostic trouble codes from a vehicle, essential for identifying and resolving car issues.
2. Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes (PDTCs)
Since 2010, many vehicles, including some Chrysler models from that era onwards, utilize Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes (PDTCs). PDTCs are a type of DTC that, by design, cannot be cleared with a generic OBD II scanner or by disconnecting the battery. They are intended to ensure that a vehicle has been properly repaired before passing an emissions test.
How to identify PDTCs:
- Scanner indication: Some advanced scanners will specifically identify a code as “permanent.”
- Code behavior: If a code immediately returns after clearing and you are confident the fault is repaired, it might be a PDTC.
Clearing PDTCs:
- Self-clearing: PDTCs are designed to clear themselves automatically once the OBD-II system verifies that the fault has been resolved and the relevant monitor has run and passed. This typically requires completing one or more drive cycles under specific conditions.
- Drive cycle: A drive cycle is a specific set of driving conditions (speed, duration, engine load, etc.) that prompts the vehicle’s computer to run self-tests (monitors) on emission control systems. Consult your Chrysler Concorde repair manual or online resources for the specific drive cycle for your vehicle and the relevant monitor.
- Professional scan tools: While generic scanners can’t clear PDTCs, some advanced professional-grade scan tools might have specific functions to initiate or expedite PDTC clearing processes, but even these are often reliant on the vehicle’s self-clearing mechanisms.
3. Incompatible or Basic OBD II Scanner
Not all OBD II scanners are created equal. Basic, entry-level scanners might have limitations in their functionality and vehicle compatibility.
Potential Scanner Limitations:
- Limited protocol support: OBD-II uses various communication protocols. A basic scanner might not fully support the specific protocol used by your Chrysler Concorde, hindering proper communication and code clearing.
- Software glitches: Less reputable or older scanners might have software bugs that prevent them from correctly clearing codes in certain situations.
- Lack of advanced functions: Basic scanners primarily focus on reading and clearing basic emission-related codes. They may lack the ability to access deeper diagnostic functions or handle specific vehicle systems effectively.
Solution:
- Try a different scanner: If you suspect your scanner is the issue, try using a different OBD II scanner, preferably a more advanced model from a reputable brand.
- Professional-grade scanner: Consider borrowing or renting a professional-grade scanner for more comprehensive diagnostics and code clearing capabilities.
4. Communication Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the codes themselves, but rather a communication problem between your scanner and the Chrysler Concorde’s computer.
Possible Communication Barriers:
- Damaged OBD-II port: Inspect the OBD-II port under your dashboard for any physical damage, bent pins, or corrosion.
- Wiring problems: Issues in the vehicle’s wiring harness, particularly the circuits related to the OBD-II port, can disrupt communication.
- ECM/PCM issues: In rare cases, a problem with the vehicle’s Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) itself could prevent communication with the scanner.
- Aftermarket accessories: Certain aftermarket accessories, especially poorly installed car stereos or alarms, can sometimes interfere with the OBD-II system.
Troubleshooting Communication:
- Visual inspection: Carefully examine the OBD-II port and surrounding wiring.
- Check fuses: Consult your Chrysler Concorde’s owner’s manual for the fuse that protects the OBD-II port circuit and check if it’s blown.
- Try different scanners: As mentioned before, trying a different scanner can help rule out scanner-specific issues and potentially establish a connection.
- Professional diagnosis: If communication problems persist, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic who can use specialized tools to diagnose wiring and ECM/PCM issues.
5. Readiness Monitors Not Complete
While not directly preventing code clearing, incomplete readiness monitors can sometimes be related to the perception that codes aren’t clearing. Readiness monitors are self-tests that the OBD-II system performs to verify the functionality of emission control systems.
Relevance to Code Clearing:
- Monitor status and codes: If certain readiness monitors haven’t run and completed since codes were last cleared (or the battery was disconnected), some scanners might display a “not ready” status. This can sometimes be misinterpreted as codes not being cleared, even if the DTC memory is actually clear.
- Emissions testing: Incomplete monitors can cause a vehicle to fail an emissions test, even if there are no active DTCs.
Addressing Readiness Monitors:
- Drive cycle: Performing the appropriate drive cycle for your Chrysler Concorde is crucial to allow the readiness monitors to run and complete.
- Allow time: Some monitors require specific conditions and driving patterns to run, so be patient and drive the vehicle as needed.
- Scanner monitor status: Use your OBD II scanner to check the status of the readiness monitors. It will indicate which monitors are complete and which are not.
Chrysler Concorde Specific Considerations
While the Chrysler Concorde isn’t specifically listed in the original article excerpt regarding OBD-II issues (which primarily focuses on later models and specific problem codes), the general principles of OBD-II diagnostics apply.
Key Takeaways for Chrysler Concorde Owners:
- Focus on accurate diagnosis: Don’t get fixated on just clearing codes. Prioritize identifying and repairing the underlying problem causing the check engine light.
- Check for PDTCs (less likely on older Concorde models but possible): Although less common on older vehicles like the Concorde (production ended in 2004), be aware of the possibility of PDTCs, especially if you have a later model year Concorde (production spanned 1993-2004).
- Use a compatible scanner: Ensure your OBD II scanner is compatible with older OBD-II protocols and Chrysler vehicles.
- Consider professional help: If you’re struggling to diagnose the issue or clear codes, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic experienced with Chrysler vehicles.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Checklist
Here’s a practical checklist to follow when your OBD II scanner won’t clear codes on your Chrysler Concorde:
- Read and record all DTCs: Note down every code present.
- Research the codes: Understand what each code signifies and the potential causes.
- Address the underlying issue: Perform necessary repairs based on your code research and diagnosis.
- Attempt to clear codes again: After repairs, try clearing the codes with your scanner.
- Check for returning codes: Start the engine and see if the check engine light and codes reappear immediately.
- Verify readiness monitor status: Use your scanner to check readiness monitor status. Perform a drive cycle if needed.
- Try a different scanner: If codes still won’t clear, try a different, preferably more advanced, OBD II scanner.
- Inspect OBD-II port and wiring: Check for damage or loose connections.
- Consult a professional: If all else fails, seek help from a qualified mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
Alt text: A skilled automotive technician utilizing a professional-grade OBD II scanner for in-depth vehicle diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Conclusion
A Chrysler Concorde OBD II scanner that won’t clear codes can be a frustrating issue, but by systematically troubleshooting and understanding the potential causes, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the problem. Remember to prioritize accurate diagnosis and repair over simply clearing codes. By following this guide and utilizing the right tools and resources, you can get your Chrysler Concorde running smoothly and your check engine light turned off for good.
If you’re looking for a reliable OBD II scanner to diagnose your Chrysler Concorde or any other vehicle, visit obd2scanner.store for a wide selection of scanners to suit your needs and budget.
