1997 Dodge B1500 V6 3.9L. everything seems to work, except it won't communicate with the smog check machine.

I just purchased this vehicle, it's registered in CA, It passed smog check a year ago in California. It has Federal EPA smog equipment on the door label, not CA. The technician hooked up the computer and it said it can't communicate with the vehicle? There are no warning lights on. I was told by a parts supplier that I should take it to the smog station that smogged it last? Something to do with it not being an original CA destination vehicle. I installed a new CA Catalytic Converter because it was rattling inside. Then went to get it smogged. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer:

We'd recommend you first try to get your Dodge truck smog checked at another smog test center, maybe the smog station that performed the smog check last time. We're thinking if there is nothing wrong with your Dodge truck's computer system maybe the smog machine's OBD II connector had a problem. Try a different smog test center first. If you get the same problem (no communication) you will then need to have the problem diagnosed by a smog check repair center. Your Dodge B1500 may have a loose OBD II connecter wiring, or in the worst case scenario, a defective engine control computer (ECU).

The smog repair shop will check the connector wiring ensuring there is power getting to the connector (and a good ground) and no breaks in the communication wire between the connecter and ECU.

posted by SmogTips Support