No crank, no start, possible immobilizer, ECU?

Tiny
03RAMCOLORADO
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 DODGE RAM
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 167,000 MILES
Ignition wouldn't turn with second key (rare use, couldn't find my keys, used many times before) Had aftermarket alarm/remote start. Lights start flashing and horn, etc. I went inside and found my keys fob didn't work. Removed horn fuse. Normal use key would not turn ignition. Disconnected battery, ended up drilling small hole to access release and get ignition cylinder out, started with screwdriver (horn, lights etc, started as soon as neg. Attached to battery). Moved truck into my driveway, removed "pins/plates" from ignition to get a key to turn it, reinstalled and same outcome, except truck died after maybe 3-5 seconds. (Approximately. 3-5 attempts) Few days later tried some things from YouTube, but now no cranking, all lights, stereo, blower fan etc, work. Replaced fuse #14 and got red light to turn off(dash)horn, headlights flashing stopped. Still no crank. Checked dealer w/vin was told no transponder key req. Removed aftermarket start/alarm no change. I can jump the starter relay and crank, can attach wire to yellow wire at ignition to same pin in relay and get crank. Can do same at fuel pump relay, hear it run. But truck will not start/run, nothing when turn the key to start at all. Any help would be great!
Friday, June 16th, 2023 AT 6:20 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,380 POSTS
I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you're experiencing with your 2003 Dodge Ram. It sounds like you've already tried several troubleshooting steps

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-not-running-advanced
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, June 16th, 2023 AT 12:22 PM
Tiny
03RAMCOLORADO
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I installed a new ignition switch, with no changes, I removed the aftermarket alarm/remote start. I believe that all wires are now connected well. Installed new starter, (was told may be solenoid) no change. Tested relays, multimeter and switching their locations. I was told that there is no anti- on my truck. (By VIN) and only received 2 black keys when purchased 5 or so years ago. (Have looked for an immobilizer bypass and haven't found one. I'm thinking possible bad PCM? Or ECU? I'm unsure on how to test. Also, neutral safety switch? I believe mine is in transmission. (Hope to not do that) Anyone know what color wires are for neutral switch? Thank you in advance! Any suggestions greatly appreciated.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Friday, June 16th, 2023 AT 3:12 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,380 POSTS
I have seen the IPM cause this issue but to be sure we should run a CAN scan. You can get a CAN scanner (Controller Area Network) which will work on most cars from Amazon.

here is a video to show you how:

https://youtu.be/u-4syLc-ifQ

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

Here is one for about $99.00 if you need it:

https://amzn.to/3ZixY4v

Here is how to change out the IPM in case a code comes up for it. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, June 17th, 2023 AT 9:43 AM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links