TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) is a distribution box for almost the whole electrical system of the Dodge. Its primary function is to take commands from various switches and other modules and send commands to the recipient in a voltage or ground.
The box reduces a lot of wiring under the hood and passing through the firewall. Also, it increases the functionality of a component by allowing several inputs to control one unit. Learn how you can reset your TIPM.
How Do You Know Your TIPM is Bad?
Dodge RAM TIPM failure symptoms may vary depending on the vehicle. For instance, in one car, the horns or wiper might be inoperative. Many issues match the failure of a starter or fuel pump. If your TIPM fails, it causes many electrical problems and often won’t start. TIPM can still make your battery fail to charge, causing more failure in your vehicle. Other issues include;
- Trailer lighting issues
- Door locking and unlocking themselves
- ABS problems
- Radio shuts off when driving.
- Coolant fans inoperative
- Power windows are not working.
- No start-signal
- The starter cranks but won’t start.
- Engine stalling when driving
- The airbag light stays on with no service codes.
- Horn going off at random times or fails to work.
- Wiper issues
- A/C compressor fails to activate
- Some buzzing sounds similar to an electrical relay partially making contact when the ignition is off.
How to do a Reset
Doing a reset to your TIPM clears codes and makes the used TIPM function in a vehicle. There are two types of reset; TIPM soft reset and hard reset. For a soft reset, you should hold VR and Phone buttons on the steering wheel for 30 seconds with the vehicle in ACC. Then turn the car off, open the driver’s door for at least 30 seconds. There should be some changes on the screen if it works.
If the method fails, try hard reset as follows;
- Remove the ignition key.
- Remove the negative cable from the battery.
- Disconnect the positive cable from the battery.
- Ensure you keep the cables away from the battery and hold both the positive and negative lines together for 10 minutes. Some sparking will occur as power drains from the system.
- After 10 minutes, disconnect the two cables and connect them back to their respective posts on the battery.
- Try to start the vehicle and confirm it’s working well, but if it doesn’t, proceed to the other step.
- Disconnect the ground cable from the battery negative post and hold this cable to the positive pole. The positive battery cable should remain connected to its position. Hold the negative cable connection for around 10 seconds, then reconnect it to the negative post.
- If this process fails, consider consulting your local dealer for reprogramming per your VIN. You should have the correct TIPM part number, and all electrical connections should be right.
Does a Dodge TIPM Need to be Programmed?
Sometimes the TIPM may require programming if it goes wrong and the reset process fails to restore vehicle configuration. The process requires a VIN entered into the TIPM. One best method that works well is to close the hood and turn the ignition key to the Run position at a minimum of 12 seconds. The TIPM collects the necessary vehicle configuration and VIN data from the PCM. Spin the ignition key off and then on position and verify if the vehicle’s system is operating correctly.
Can You Replace a TIPM Yourself?
If you purchase a TIPM, you can do Dodge RAM TIPM replacement yourself. It’s a straightforward procedure that requires you to use basic tools like a screwdriver.
Dodge RAM TIPM Recall
It’s important to know where you can go to check whether your vehicle has a recall. First, always ensure you have a vehicle identification number(VIN), which is a 17-character. One place is visiting the manufacturer’s website to check for any information or visiting the recalls website.
There are 6 Totally Integrated Power Module recalls issued from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) as follows;
- Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling particular 2009-2012 Dodge Ram 1500 trucks
- Chrysler (FCA US LLC) recalls certain 2016-2017 Ram 3500 Cab Chassis Vehicles
- 2011 to 2017 Ram 3500, 4500, and 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles
- 2012 to 2014 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, 5500 trucks made on January 18, 2011, to October 7, 2014, with the Electronic Vehicle Information Center option.
- 2009-2012 Ram 1500 trucks
- 2012 RAM 1500 TRUCKS
Where is TIPM located in the Dodge Ram?
You can find the TIPM location in the engine bay near the battery. It houses the fuses and relays that help regulate your vehicle’s high current electrical system (that’s why some people call it the fuse box).
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Conclusion
If your vehicle shows some of the above symptoms like horn failing, wiper issues, fans failing to work, and more, it’s maybe an indication your TIPM is terrible. It will help if you verify power and ground with the TIPM firsts to confirm. When the results point to the TIPM, you can consider resetting it or even replacing depending on the model.