Case Study: Dodge Sprinter keeps running with ignition switch off

Vehicle: 2007 Dodge Sprinter 2500, V6-3.0L DSL Turbo, VIN 45, automatic transmission/transaxle

Mileage: 159,159

Problem: The operator of this Sprinter complained that the engine kept running after the ignition switch was turned off. The engine oil level was on the mark, so he didn’t think the run-on was caused by an oil leak into the combustion chamber.

Case details: The technician scanned for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and found the following:

• P2067 - Fuel Level Sensor 2 Circuit Low
• P2068 - Fuel Level Sensor 2 Circuit High
• P2822 - Pressure Control Solenoid J Electrical

The initial voltage tests found that, with the ignition key in the off position, there was 9V on engine control module (ECM) fuse 21 (5A) in the fuse/relay block. That fuse should have had zero volts on it with the ignition switch off. This is where the technician called ALLDATA Tech-Assist for some guidance.

The Tech-Assist consultant advised checking for any aftermarket equipment that was spliced into the ignition switch or body control module (BCM) wiring.

After inspecting as advised, the technician found an aftermarket GPS unit spliced into circuit 219 (BK/OR wire) at the ignition switch. That circuit fed the BCM, which controls the terminal 15 relay and fuse 21. The GPS unit had failed and was back-feeding power into that circuit.

Confirmed repair: The technician removed the GPS unit and verified the DTCs were cleared. After that, the engine shut down normally when cycling the ignition switch off. Fixed!

Reprinted with permission from ALLDATA.