No Start, No Spark | 1997 Chrysler Sebring | 2.5
This 1997 Chrysler Sebring with a 2.5 liter came in as a no start. The basic checks revealed a no spark condition. Instead of checking for a 
good cam and crank signal I pulled the distributor cap off to check spark right at the coil that is located in the distributor housing. With my spark tester hooked up to the coil I used my scan tool to actuate the coil spark test. I still did not have spark so I now know that I either have a coil, power, ground, or signal problem. I checked the power supply and had 12v. I than checked the signal from PCM.The PCM signal triggers a transistor in the distributor to fire the coil. Instead of using a test light like I do with other Chrysler’s, where the PCM coil driver is the actual ground for the coil, I used my logic probe. With the logic probe I could see that the PCM was attempting to fire the coil. I now knew I had a bad coil but did a currant test to confirm my belief. The currant test revealed a shorted coil, which you can see by how the amperage jumps straight up instead of having a nice even slope. I tested the new used coil to make sure it worked before I installed it. With every thing back in place the Sebring pop right off. Having the ability to see amperage in work really makes life easier.




4 comments
Just to let you know after downloading your manual i throughly enjoy using my modis lab scope, keep up your excellent work.
kind regards stephen bell
Thank you, Stephen. Once you force yourself to pull it out and get the hang of it, it really can save the day a lot.
Would you show how you hooked up the various tests to the Modis for this case study?
Thanks
Tom
I put the low amp probe around the power feed (dark green/orange) to the coil located near the distributor connector.