What Causes a Jeep PCM Failure?
by Jen Davis
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) in your Jeep is designed to serve as the brain of your vehicle's engine. The PCM is what is often referred to as your Jeep's "computer." It controls a variety of functions, including how your engine runs and the individual sensors that provide it with information. If your Jeep's PCM fails, you can expect your vehicle to exhibit a variety of symptoms, including the Jeep running badly, error lights appearing on the dashboard and a fairly wide assortment of electrical problems. Fortunately, problems with operation of the PCM unit can be traced to a few known causes.
Voltage Overload
If a short occurs in your vehicle's power supply or wiring, or if your vehicle is somehow shocked, your Jeep's PCM may not recover from the jolt. Too much electricity will effectively fry your Jeep's PCM. According to AA1Car, this is commonly caused by a problem with either the solenoid or the actuator circuit.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors such as corrosion, thermal stress and vibrations can play a part in the failure of your PCM. Also, if you like to take your Jeep off-road, be aware that submerging the PCM in water or mud can lead to its sudden failure.
Faulty Equipment
As with any vehicle part or mechanical item, a faulty PCM is occasionally manufactured. If you happen to be one of the unlucky few who gets a faulty PCM, which may be the case if you own a relatively new Jeep that has not suffered any damage, you will have to replace it. Fortunately, doing so may be covered under your warranty.
References
Writer Bio
Jen Davis has been writing since 2004. She has served as a newspaper reporter and her freelance articles have appeared in magazines such as "Horses Incorporated," "The Paisley Pony" and "Alabama Living." Davis earned her Bachelor of Arts in communication with a concentration in journalism from Berry College in Rome, Ga.
