1996 Dodge Intrepid Check Engine Light is blinking

140,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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TJWEBER6
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Check engine light came on several months ago. I did not get the code because it had happened before and was an O2 sensor, which I was told was not a big problem, and my fuel mileage has stayed the same. This morning the check engine light began blinking. Can you help. I will take it to Advanced Auto to get the engine codes. This is about 15 miles away each way.I will report codes when I get back. Thanks
Aug 30, 2009 at 2:44 AM
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MERLIN2021
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You can try a self-diagnostic test. To activate self diagnostic program:

With the ignition switch in the OFF position, depress the TRIP and RESET buttons.
While holding the TRIP and RESET button turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Continue to hold the TRIP and RESET buttons until the word CODE appears in the odometer windows (about five seconds ) then release the buttons. If a problem exists, the system will display Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's). If no problem exists, the code 999 (End Test) will momentarily appear.
Aug 30, 2009 at 2:49 AM
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TJWEBER6
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Merlin,

This vehicle has the non-electrontic odometer. Also, I found out from my wife that it is not just the check engine light that is blinking, but other lights, as well as the radiio. Sounds like alternator or dc voltage regulator? What is your diagnosis?
Aug 30, 2009 at 3:36 AM
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MERLIN2021
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 17,250 POSTS
Tell me if it's a 3.3 or 3.5 too please!
Using Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) 1. Ensure battery is fully charged. Turn ignition on and note operation of MIL. The MIL is located on instrument panel. When ignition is first turned on, MIL should come on to verify bulb and circuit operation, and then go off. 2. Turn ignition on, off, on, off and on within 5 seconds. Record 2-digit Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) as displayed by flashing MIL. 3. For example, DTC 24 will be displayed by 2 flashes, short pause, and then 4 flashes. A short pause will exist between first and second digits on DTC. If more than one DTC is stored, after first DTC is displayed, there will be a longer pause and then another stored DTC will be displayed. 4. Once all DTCs are recorded, proceed to retrieving DTCs using scan tool to ensure all DTCs are obtained. See USING SCAN TOOL .
NOTE: If MIL does not come on and then go off, bulb circuit may be defective, or problem area may exist on CCD Bus between Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and instrument cluster. If problem exists with CCD Bus, this problem may be displayed when using scan tool to retrieve DTCs.
Aug 31, 2009 at 7:08 AM
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