My dealership is telling me that my PCM is sending a signal to the IPM, but power is not coming out and now they want to replace my Integrated power module at price of $1,039.15 (parts, labor, and tax).

All this because my A/C stopped cooling, but I'm being told that the PCM can effect much more with my Dodge.

What other options are available? Thanks for all replies.

 

Not under warranty I assume!

 

Nope, I wish... 2006 with 64K miles, so it's not covered. I would not worry about replacement for only the A/C as cooler weather is coming, but it affects other things I'm told. I tow, and can't afford to mess up truck or trailer.

 

Get the part number off the PCM and look online for used parts. (junk yards) when I blew out my PCM I got a used one for 250$ and it only took 1 hour to swap the part and program.

I thought the PCM is covered by the Cummins warranty? It has a Cummins P/N on it. You may want to do a little research yourself. There are a lot of uninformed service writers out there.

 

Post copy of the diagnostics they performed on your truck, any DTC's present. Sometimes corrosion in wiring connectors can cause problems since module is located near the battery.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (2)(TIPM) is a combination unit that performs the functions of the Power Distribution Center (PDC) and the Front Control Module. The TIPM is a printed circuit board based module that contains fuses, internal relays and a microprocessor that performs the functions previously executed by the FCM. The TIPM (2) is located in the engine compartment, next to the battery (1) and connects directly to the B+ cable (5) via a stud located on top of the unit. The ground connection is via electrical connectors. The TIPM provides the primary means of voltage distribution and protection for the entire vehicle.

The molded plastic TIPM housing includes a base and cover. The TIPM cover is easily opened or removed for service and has a fuse and relay layout map integral to the inside surface of the cover. The TIPM housing base and cover are secured in place via mounting tabs. The mounting tabs secure the TIPM (2) to the battery tray mounting bracket (3).

 

I was never provided a diagnostic print out for my PCM. I was only told that it was receiving power, but was not sending power to my A/C unit. Fan on the A/C works, but just not cool air... With a 1K price tag, seems like a lot to get A/C and everything else works fine. But was warned that other elements could be effected.

 

That tells me right there that they're throwing parts at it. Take it somewhere else.

 

*********** also has told me that my tailshaft housing is leaking and needs replacement for $800.00. I took it to local AAMCO and they told me my trans pan bolts were loose and so far I have not seen any other leaks. Makes me question the PCM replacement that *********** wants because my A/C stopped cooling. I am leaning towards a second dealership opinion.

 

Get a second opinion. Over a grand for a powertrain control module for a new truck.........crazy.

 

It may be a shot in the dark, but PCM's are normally covered by an 80K Federal Emissions Warranty. The fact that the ECM is also Cummins piece should get that covered either way. The TIPM is definately not covered beyond the 3/36. If in doubt, then I would call the hotline on the back page of the owners manual. It is designed as a last resort for customers, but it will get to the answer alot faster. Normally the ECM's aren't replaced as long as they will take a program (flash).

Chris

 

Another thought is that the TIPM just needs to reconfigured. Sometimes they can lose bits of programming. They are normally on restriction and the dealer will have to call their STAR center to get permission to install one. Even if the Starscan can watch the actuators requesting to activate your A/C the TIPM won't allow it to work.

Chris

 

It sounds to me as if the TIPM is what they quoted you to replace, not the PCM. I could be wrong, but if the PCM is sending the signal to the IPM, but the compressor still isn't turning on, then the IPM would be at fault...? If it were mine, I would simply make a new circuit for the A/C compressor and take the signal from the PCM and wire it into a separate relay that has it's own power and fuse circuit. It would be a pretty simple fix. If something else goes wrong in the IPM, then worry about it then. There are numerous controls available to do what needs done at a fraction of the cost! I could probably put something together ( if it were mine ( not trying to sell anything!) for less than 50 bucks!.........something to think about at least.

 

Hello fellow truckers;

I am very happy to report that Dodge has stepped up the to plate. From your suggestions I have contacted the Dodge Corp and after spending 40 min on the phone, they have agreed that this problem would be covered under warranty and I would only be required to pay the deductible... I want to thank all that replied to my post, and for offering the great advice...

I have newed my faith in Dodge and this is my one of many trucks I have owned with the good name DODGE on it.

Thanks again.

 

So what exactly are they going to replace? Still curious in that respect. Glad Dodge is gonna take care of it!

 

At this point I'm not sure.... The Integrated Power Module I believe. The part they tell me was shipped from Shriveport, LA and because of the storm has been delayed... They have had my truck now for two days, and I hope it comes in tomorrow. I hope to have more information once I get it back. I will keep you posted.