PCM TSB - am I being lied to?

[Rainman]

I called my dealer to find out about the PCM TSB. I gave them my VIN, they ran it and told me my car was one of the ones that could be affected. I didn't check the date on the car, but bought it in October '03, so I know it has to be one of the affected ones. They told me I needed to take it in, they would check the plugs and wires and if they checked out, they would REPROGRAM my PCM. I asked him if they weren't supposed to replace it. He told me that all they had to do was reprogram it, not replace it and it would correct the high RPM miss and would also ehnance the performance and gas mileage of the car. Does this sound ok to everyone? I keep hearing all of you say your PCM was replaced to fix the issue and NOT just reprogrammed. Should I take it in and see if the reprogramming of the PCM helps? I need some advice. Also, I doubt it matters, but mine is an autostick. I appreciate any help.

[crazyjoe]

It should be replaced.

[ptgtcb]

Yes, it should be replaced. It is a hardware issue not a software issue. Have them print the Factory bulletin 18-029-03 and look at it with them.

[czardingus]

I got exactly the same run-around about 6 weeks ago, and posted on it. As I had the car in for an oil change, they "reptogrammed" the PCM, but at my insistence, ordered the new pcm. They told me to call if it did not misfire. It continued the same high rpm miss, and they replaced the pcm under warranty 2 weeks later. Don't give in...

[Cal Cruzer]

Does anyone that the acutal TSB so we can read it?

[skylight]

TSB# 18-029-03
Date: August 8, 2003
SUBJECT: Slight Engine Mis-Fire Above 5200 rpm

OVERVIEW: This bulletin involves replacing the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

MODELS: 2003 (PT) Chrysler PT Cruiser

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles built prior to January 22, 2003 (MDH0122xx) equipped with a 2.4L Turbo engine and manual transmission or prior to March 18, 2003 (MDH 0318xx) for vehicles equipped with a 2.4L Turbo engine and automatic transmission.

SYMPTOM/CONDITION: Vehicle operator may describe a random or slight engine mis-fire when operating vehicle above 5200 rpm. There will be no DTC logged in the PCM. If there are DTC’s present additional diagnosis should be done to determine the problem. This condition is caused by a internal hardware issue in the PCM.

[sakigt]

Give them a swift kick in the arse on the way out for me [}]

[ptgtcb]

quote:Originally posted by Jody


TSB# 18-029-03
Date: August 8, 2003
SUBJECT: Slight Engine Mis-Fire Above 5200 rpm

OVERVIEW: This bulletin involves replacing the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

MODELS: 2003 (PT) Chrysler PT Cruiser

NOTE: This bulletin applies to vehicles built prior to January 22, 2003 (MDH0122xx) equipped with a 2.4L Turbo engine and manual transmission or prior to March 18, 2003 (MDH 0318xx) for vehicles equipped with a 2.4L Turbo engine and automatic transmission.

SYMPTOM/CONDITION: Vehicle operator may describe a random or slight engine mis-fire when operating vehicle above 5200 rpm. There will be no DTC logged in the PCM. If there are DTC’s present additional diagnosis should be done to determine the problem. This condition is caused by a internal hardware issue in the PCM.

The above TSB is missing the most important text, which is; Diagnosis " The repair should only be performed if the vehicle operator describes OR the technician experiences the symptom/condition".
Nothing in the bulletin requires the technician to verify the complaint!
The actual bulletin says you can not reproduce it without DC permission so I will not post it and was asked not to post it, sorry. But, it says nothing about quoting it. All the forums who have this TSB listed are all missing this quote, interesting.

[Cal Cruzer]

Thanks guys. If I take this with me and stand and look over their shoulder maybe I can get some satisfaction.

[Rainman]

Thank you all for the help. I will call them again and read the bulletin to them. If that doesn't help, I'll go in and argue with them and will take a copy of the TSB with me.