Shop Dodge RAM 1500 Performance Module

Diagnosing the Dodge Ram 1500 Performance Module

After carefully considering the risks of installing a Dodge Ram 1500 performance module, you took the plunge so you can unleash a powerful engine from its pre-programmed restraints. Now, if your pickup isn't improving in fuel efficiency or increasing your horsepower, don't give up and think that you've spent all that money or possibly voided your vehicle's warranty in vain. Before reaching for the phone to ask for a mechanic or a refund, find out if the performance chip is indeed causing these issues.

Your fuel emissions increase

If you fail your state's emissions test after installing a performance module, then your performance module may not necessarily be in need of a repair. One of the unfortunate side effects of installing a super chip is that your Ram increases its fuel emissions as its engine performs better.

Your starter acts up

Problems with a performance module can occur because of a misstep during the installation procedure. So you need to review what you did and did not do during the process and fix any issues that you see. If you did not disconnect the battery before installing the chip, then your Dodge's computer might not have calibrated correctly because of static discharge. The computer might have retained the information from previous chips or its own programming, so you'll need to reset it. The chip could have been installed backwards or it could have bent during installation, so you'll have to ask for a replacement module. Or, the problem might simply be in an incorrect connection or a loose wiring harness between the performance chip and your Dodge's computer.

Your check engine light turns on

If your check engine light comes on after installing a performance module, get an OnBoard Diagnostics (OBD) scanner and plug it into the port located at the driver's side of the dashboard. Owners of Rams that were made from 1996 to 2001 can find it just above the gas pedal. Meanwhile, those with 2002 to 2008 trucks need to feel for theirs to the left of the hood release handle and pry the plastic cover open with a flat blade screwdriver. After plugging in the scanner, turn on your electrical system but don't crank your engine on. Write down the codes that the scanner will show you. Check online or consult the scanner's manual for what this code means.