04 Dodge Ram lighting fault. IPM/FCM diagnosis and repair

[@jessmcdaniels4196]

Revised: You’re smart and explain points very well. My truck wasn’t allowing me to pull away like you did with ease. Turns out I didn’t pull hard enough. It took getting really upset and angry to get enough physical pull power. Thx for your time. Btw - I like your dog - bullmastiff? “You skipped a whole step. How to remove”

[@stevo6274]

That's what I need how you take it out

[@tomreyn3610]

I was certified in circuit board repair in the military. You did a good job. And your electric trouble shooting is right on. Voltage readings don’t mean squat with a 100M ohm impedance voltmeter without a load on the end.

[@edwardblack5236]

Had exactly the same problem with my truck, only watched the video because it was on auto play, thank goodness, very educational and inspiring!! My truck is now fully functional again, thank you for your time and efforts!!

[@Snagglepussify]

Some advice for those who decide to use a salvaged TIPM rather than repair. First of all, this is NOT a TIPM, it's an IPM. These earlier Dodges (up to '06 I believe) used an IPM (basically a fuse box with circuitry) which had a FCM (front control module) bolted on to it. A TIPM has the two parts combined as one unit. The FCM contains an eeprom which is married to the VIN# of the vehicle. If you swap out the IPM make sure you use your existing FCM (it's the aluminum box on the side of the IPM). If you use a salvaged IPM including FCM, you'll have all kinds of odd 'Lamp Errors' which will entail having your vehicle reprogrammed. To sum up: The IPM is 'plug & play' as long as you use the original FCM.

[@warrenbigtimebrown]

Just fixed my 04 Ram 1500. I should have taken pics. pulled mine apart, cleaned the board, brushed the pins and IT WORKS! (Btw, left side headlight was out). I also fixed the P044 & P0456 codes. This video was amazing. Told me where to look. Thanks again.

[@georgebaumgardner3889]

This video may be 4 years old, but it sure helped me repair the same light problem I was having on my 2004 Dodge Ram 1500. You were right on the money with the diagnosis and repair procedure, many, many thanks to you! Same failure, same repair. I did notice what caused the failure. On the underside of the IPM, where the harnesses plug into the bottom, there is a small square hole in the housing right where the failure on the circuit board occurred. That hole left the elements get access to the circuit board and caused the failure! Also, I tried finding a replacement IPM for this vehicle and there were no new ones to be found anywhere, but I did not try a dealer, only aftermarket parts stores.

[@6string327]

Just a follow up I took the fuse box apart and found corrosion at the same point as yours, the solder and wire did the trick for me too! Thanks so much bro, you saved me a ton of money.

[@jillianlarson3430]

I had the exact same lights out. I did exactly what you did and it works perfectly. I ended up using epoxy to cover the new circuit. Thanks for the video.

[@richardzicarelli3193]

I am not having this issue, but just had to say after watching this video that it was amazing to watch you diagnose it and fix it. I sure wish I had your kind of skills.

[@jamesmcguire8808]

Great video! I have a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 5.9. 1 high beam and both low beams do not have power. Both turn signals flash fast but only the rear bulbs are actually flashing. The "bulb out" light is on the dash. After watching this video I removed the fuse box today. When I took it apart the board was corroded in the same place, just like in this video. I cleaned up the area and placed a piece of wire on there with solder just like in this video. Once I put it back in the truck but it back together everything now is back to normal all 4 headlights work, all the turn signals work and flash as they should. There must be a weak spot in this part of the board from the factory if this many have the same problem.

[@DaveHallier-s3d]

Well done video! Great audio of course. I learned a lot from you. After 50+ years as a mechanic I’ve often shied away from electrical issues like this. But very timely now cuz I just happen to have a 2003 Dodge gen3 2500 cab in shop with exact IPM/FCM on my bench to clean up and inspect. I just call these TIPM, but you are right as the FCM is NOT totally integrated haha! It’s an appendage!

[@carlahill5858]

Too much fun! You're awesome and I'm a nerd! LOL You have totally inspired me to do a diagnostic on my IPM/FCM and then take it apart and check out the inside! Wow! Who would've thought? Thank you!

[@johncameron3825]

Thank you for showing this repair. I just fixed my truck and it was exactly the same corroded area on the circuit board and I would have been pulling my hair out trying to diagnose the problem.

[@doernerrr]

Coming to this kind of late but I’ll comment anyway. First many thanks, you saved me big bucks with this video. I have a 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi, owned it since new, now has 205K miles. Had the intermittent lamp out warning light problem for a month or so, finally came on steady and the left side low beam was out. Replaced bulbs and still out. After watching the video, it occurred to me that the intermittent function on the wipers was erratic and could be related to the lamp out and both could be due to corrosion on the pins connecting the FCM to the IPM. Took it apart and sprayed the pins and sockets with contact cleaner and blew it off with compressed air. That’s all it took, lamp is on, warning light is out, works perfectly. Less than an hour and cost nothing, dealer probably would have had the truck for 3 days and charged me $$$. Only surprise is my truck is pretty much corrosion free in general and the pins on the FCM looked decent, a bit discolored but not green. But that was definitely the problem. Thanks again for the logical and methodical troubleshooting guide.

[@tdcauto6168]

Man I pulled my box apart the other day and came across the same corrosion in the same spot.no turn,brake,hazzard, low beam, I traced circuits with Mitchell and demand schematics, and hooked up our soulus ultra...pulled fcm pinout and probed them, I have them if anyone is interested. I've never thought about a load test duh.. thanks man for helping me.comfirm it didn't want to waste my time..I'll post up a video also thank you!!! Going to shop here in a few and getting to work thank you again man. I've been reading for about 4 days!!

[@larryconley9117]

Very professional and informative. I’m having a similar issue with my 05 but live in rural Mississippi where parts are not so easy to find . If I don’t get it right I’m screwed. Thanks for your video

[@onegoodmason]

Thanks for the great informative video . My situation is exactly like yours . Tonight I try the repair , it's too cheap not to try and a used fuse box is $20 at the u-pull if I screw up . Cheers man !! What you have done is much appreciated !

[@michaelengelhardt5296]

Just bought a used one bc I'm having same problem except all headlight turn signals and brake lights are out and no one has new ones the dealer even said they are on back order. Great video I work on alot of stuff but this might be a little above my skill.

[@esakortelainen208]

Awesome, thank you very much. I have a 2005 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins diesel and had exactly the same issue with the signal and headlight. When open the TIPM I found the same corrosion issue on the same spot on the circuit board. Indeed the same solder took care of the problem. Thank you again this saved me a bunch of time troubleshooting. Cheers.

[@jasonandrewz2214]

Thank you so much... Repaired My 03 2500 tonight. Same exact spot on the board.i normally would buy a replacement but 350 and out of stock... For a rebuild.. again. Thank you. Oh 278000 Miles.

[@billybobsuefamilyhomestead8201]

Worked like a charm on my 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 SLT. Thanks for showing how to fix this problem. I used screws to fasten the drilled heat stakes. I also re coated the board to seal everything back up. Very good video, thank you

[@Mattszed]

Thank you very much for the video!!! The exact issue just happened on my truck last week, I tried some general research and it mostly went to throwing parts at it. You went in depth and explained everything. I will open it up and see what is fixable. Funny side note is I pulled the complete IPM/FCM off of my companies plow truck (same year) yesterday and still had the same issue. But afterwards found out that the plow truck had the same issue. lol. Thank you from Ontario Canada.

[@tingey83]

Your video showed my exact problem. Taking it out right now to try and see if mine is as easy to fix as your was!! Thanks for your time and the video!!

[@djsomers100]

Very helpful! Didnt understand how the PCM and FCM all went together. Have had a few problems with mine on 2003 Dodge 3500.

[@chriswalter7592]

Thx for all ur time and effort. My own truck a 2005 just pulled this and the shop is at a loss. Module is over 30 days out so tomorrow I am pulling it apart. Hope it's the same

[@daveherriot8608]

Thanks for this video. Had the exact same problem with my '05 Ram. I tried for the life of me to solder to the board and it would not stick. I'm a newb to soldering so not sure what I was doing wrong. I ended up soldering a jumper wire to the pins on the other side of the board and it fixed the problem.

[@Twobrothersoutdoors]

My truck had the same symptoms. You saved me a bunch of money. Thanks! BTW my fuse box corroded in the same spot!

[@bertonunes6961]

Thank you sir! I found a corroded trace but it wasn't where you showed headlights still acting up, thinking its the FCM. Thought it appears my intermittent wiper work now so thats a plus. Good Video.

[@808drummerpercussionist9]

Very helpful focusing on the problem and digging instead of just changing the unit, nicely explained,,,,,instructor qualities,,,,,thank you Sir, Mad Skills

[@brianwalk108]

Great video, unbelievably helpful, not enough videos like this around!

[@thechamp66]

I have mine all apart. Exact same issue with corrosion in exact same location. Dodge should have had a recall on these things. Ready to solder my 18 gage wire. just need to know what to use for protection to cover the wire. I can't seem to see where you mentioned what you used or how you go about it.

[@gboy1298]

Thank you!!! I watched I don’t know how many videos and couldn’t find one on this. Actually took my box apart but thought I did that with my drill. 😳 Thrn found this video took apart again and fixed!

[@Beverlys-Hillbilly]

This describes the current situation with my 04 ram. Tomorrow I am going to have a look inside it.

[@brownwoodworks56]

This is exactly what I needed to see, thank you!

[@ericfischer5900]

What and how did you put protective coating over it?

[@stevekeller6329]

Where do u live I'll drop off my 2003 Ram van. I have no turn signal flashers. I do have 4 way flashers. There's no power windows but my electric door locks work I have rno radio and no front heater fan. I do have rear heater fan. I don't have the equipment or understanding you have. Your very Impressive and knowledgeable of the electrical side of vehicles I do not know what to do next?

[@kenwesters7834]

Nice work! Very impressive! Having same issue with my Jeep commander. I am going to dive in and see what I see!

[@westbird5]

Gotta say, that was impressive and inspiring! I just might give this a whirl myself :)

[@ellargudo5750]

Thank You Very Much. Went to Junk Yark Pick and Pull !!!!! I took my tools Found a Dodge and took this Part Out. Got home installed and now all my Lights Work. I was about to take truck to an electrician shop i always go to. Thank you very, very ,very Much❤ The part was 20 dollars at the junk Yard Just remember to go Early it Gets Hot😂😂

[@محمدجامة]

What was the issue ? Just Wanna see if it's similar to mine

[@ellargudo5750]

The Part was Completely Burnt Inside.

[@robbelle3707]

Very good video,I’m starting to have issues with my 2004 dodge ram lights,I’m getting a light out warning but my turn signal light was good

[@tmur2124]

Thank you. My abs, srs, climate controls and speedo. All stopped working. I was suspecting it was the module attached to the fuse box but now I'm going to open up the tipm and have a look.

[@IIxNUMNUTSxII]

Ever find out what was causing your issues? I’m having similar problems

[@drewmann1966]

Nice!...I made a similar device for my PP. It has interchangable bulbs for different loads from 1a to 5a. Super handy to load test circuits.

[@ronaldgrantham136]

This is a great video and information on a really common Dodge/Chrysler issue. Also, the mic works great too. I am about to try the same thing on my 2005 3500 diesel. It had the same headlight issue several months ago, and before that had weird electrical issues since I purchased it a few years back. I removed the IPM and FCM when I tackled the headlight issue and simply replugging everything in got it working correctly ... for a while. Now, I am diving all the way in . . . way over my head! I found in replies that you use the Power Probe 4 for your testing, and saw info on how to insulate the wiring fix as well as using screws to reassemble the unit halves. Was wondering if you had any "fixes" for the locking tabs on those cursed connector/plugs beneath the IPM? Are there any videos for how to release and remove, and replace them correctly? Three of the five large connectors are broken on my truck... and that is BEFORE I got a hold of them.

[@Wdreynolds1979]

did you use screws to fasten the drilled heat stakes? I am about to tear mine down and do what you did. good video, thanks.

[@artpalmer8244]

Sounds good

[@waterfordbum89]

Genius work btw. Hats off to you. Definitely want to break my down now and take a look at it

[@tired_brickmason34]

Hats off to you?? Who even says that? Would you say that out in the real world?? No, you wouldn't cuz it's stupid.

[@kylewarren2627]

Wow! This was perfect! And some impressive hunting! It was my exact problem. I was about to change the fcm too, but I'm really happy I found your video. Thanks a bunch! I'll be doing this this weekend.

[@R3D_R41D3R]

Awesome explanation of everything man I appreciate your time very much

[@camacho69camacho84]

My truck was running good, but after I jumped it off with a higher voltage it did not crank, the ignition switch is dead, what would that be?????? Thanks .

[@Zewestcoaster]

2004 dodge 3500 ~EXACT~ same problem.... ~EXACT~ same location... ~EXACT~ same repair.... I don't think water is the sole culprit. I think the circuit trace is too narrow for the current being carried. High current (temperature) breaks down the "weather proof" coating on the circuit board. Add a little humidity/moisture and the trace doesn't stand a chance.... Thank You, this helped me save my Easter Long Weekend camping trip.....

[@chipw132]

Great Video!! Seems Power Probe should offer a pre-built set up with a replaceable plug-in bulb option……..

[@grigoryfalkin5245]

awesome video very informative, thank you for this.. and that way you know while dong this i relized you can take a small flathead screwdriver and brake the melt tabs off that way no drill is required

[@niklausimobersteg8834]

Hi. Based on watching your FCM video with the low voltage issues triggering the lighting fault, I was wondering if I should investigate the TIPM for the DTCs on my 04 Ram 2500 5.9 Cummins. DTCs are P0882, P0973, P2769; all for low signal input.

[@thomasdarnell8554]

I have same issues. But I’m a TD and 13 is my birth day and lucky number. Also have racing stories. Anyway….. nice work and appreciate the time you put in your videos!✌️🤓

[@RozetRides]

How did you separate it on the side with the module? The whole right side with the module connector is supposed to slide upward. How did you achieve that?

[@daletustison8550]

Very informative. Thank You. Great fix and no BS

[@randymabry5983]

This video is awesome.!!! I am having a problem with my Power windows NOT operating on my 2004 Dodge Pickup. I also own a 2002 Dodge. I've swapped the driver side window controller around on both trucks. The 2004 window controller works in the 2002 truck. the 2002 window controller will not work in the 2004 truck. I have not been able to locate the relay/fuse for the power windows. ANY HELP!!! OR Advice would be GREAT!

[@MattDuke-t4e]

Unless I missed it, witch I could have, the heat pins on top that are drilled out, what is best way to reconnect the peices together since they were drilled out. Please and thank you.

[@Vootsksa]

Nice job and good diagnostics. Good soldering

[@paulstanziale1485]

what did you use as a protective coating over the repair?

[@therealbigfoot3076]

Clear flex seal..

[@MrHotdogwithmustard]

is he serious????

[@MrLeonie1000]

Great repair man. Mike sounds real good. If you want network stuff I’ve got a No Bus comm issue on a van I think needs a pcm.

[@bradt9350]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3y9aJ18p9Glg9U You've got to watch this guys 3 part vids.. Everything you need to know about repairing the Jtec... I had the No Bus issue... I put a wet paper towel on the heat sink/case to cool it down on a very hot day and it would ran long enough to get it home...

[@vcrrules1]

Thanks that's exactly whatI needed to see, you just saved my ass!!!!!!!!!!

[@cocoaman435]

This is a must try!!! I’m havjng the same problem!!! Ima try this. Perhaps use a guitar string… and see if that would work as well.

[@johnterpack3940]

Commented on this two years ago. Still haven't had my IPM/FCM looked at. Got a headlight that doesn't work even with a new bulb, wipers that will occasionally cycle even when the switch is off, and intermittent wipers that are possessed by epileptic demons. Not to mention an oil gauge that periodically drops to zero. If I could find a way to bypass the voodoo box altogether I would.

[@roxanneabbott8424]

Where did u get that little bulb to test the load, on the probe???

[@cesarnava9379]

would be kind of you to make a video for the IOD system on the Ram

[@kimokahikolekalihi]

When you test those power feed circuits, does the key need to be on or not?

[@brianmooney7009]

Where are you located. Man I could use your help. Long Island New York. Thanks. Brian

[@drakestonecipher1952]

Am I able to just replace the board from a junkyard part or will I run into some issues?

[@Bubba-BigHouse]

Have the exact same thing going on with my Ram, tried to repair the board and it didn’t solve anything. Replaced the IPM/FCM with a refurbished on and it solved the problem, however a week later when I turned on my truck, the drive side front blinker wasn’t responding, it just stayed steady glow while the relay went clicking fast

[@michaelhagan394]

Have the problem on an 04 dodge ram 1500 the rear running lights dont work as well as the windshield wipers operate on start up wiping 6 times then stopping tested all fuses and connections as well as tow connections .all are operable.

[@onestepbeyond7240]

The wipers on my 05 were doing same thing. I put a new relay in and it fixed the problem. Now I don't have parking lights. POS Dodge.

[@kimokahikolekalihi]

Where can one find a wiring diagram for the IPM/FCM? I'm having electrical problems with a 2004 dodge Durango 5.7 and I keep searching but all I can find is stuff for the newer Durango's that use the TIPM.

[@Vootsksa]

My lights.. I had same issue. I replaced the board in my tail light assembly. Works great! The circuit boards get hot and go bad. Also don't use anything on electronics other than DIALECTRIC grease.

[@Texasknowhow]

Good video. I have a similar problem but I only get the "lamp out" warning when my headlights are on AND I add the right blinker into the mix. Blinker without the headlights works. Headlights (all lights really) with left blinker works, but Headlights on and right blinker, will trigger the "Lamp out" message. I'm thinking either a headlamp socket not making good contact or the same issue you had here... Which one of your past videos has the details on your test meter with the built-in bulb for making sure circuits can carry a little current? Nicely done video! Let me know, Clay

[@terrymillerii4181]

Thank you for what you do!

[@kennn4409]

Love the content ❤

[@letsgobrandon3292]

Great video and sound. Much appreciated.

[@albertoalvarado6411]

Do I need to go to a dealer for install FCM junkyard or can I put it on my own

[@wagontrack]

Thank you for the post, I have exactly the same problem going on with my 2003 ram. I now have an idea on where to look. (:0)

[@ElSanty85]

Hello. I have a problem in my truck and it's that the brake lights don't work and neither do the dash lights, such as P R D 1 2 do you have any ideas to solve it? I already checked fuse 24 and the brake switch under the brake pedal and they are fine. thanks and a hug

[@SP_Hatter]

Audio sounds great.

[@jamesausburn5705]

I need your skills on my truck!!! I’ve been battling a no bus issue for a year or so.

[@stevengrandinetti794]

Thank you very much. My truck had the exact same problem.

[@felipefigueroa3240]

That’s talent my friend wish I had the guts to do that lol

[@JustJoshing902]

Impressive! Thank you Mate!

[@fernandoblanco4767]

What type of multimeter did you use ?

[@ruq777]

He said in another reply, power probe 4. About to buy one now!

[@fernandoblanco4767]

@@ruq777 thank you!

[@1windozesuk]

Are you related to Ivan (I think that is his name) of Pine Hollow Diagnostics? You sound a lot like him, but with a bit of a Mass accent, you look a lot like him, you have same mannerisms AND you guys are both high level with auto electronics... Great video, ty

[@keithh3767]

WHere did you get wiring diagram? i need full wiring diagrams for my 05 dodge ram 1500

[@coqui077]

great video, keep up the great job!!😃

[@sr8shoota]

What would you do if you had a 2008 dodge charger that does not turn the hazard lights on. I replaced the switch but it still not working.

[@richardramero369]

You should always use telephone cable wire it's insulated each little Wireless in there is insulated

[@Sanneti2012]

Hi, could this be the issue for my Ram 03 keeping the parking lights on? relays and fuses are good, I even pull out the FCM and the lights still stay on. don't know what to do

[@teddungee490]

My 06 Ram 1500 turn signals on front don't work. However rear signals flash real fast?

[@josephbrown2045]

Excellent, thank you.

[@taylorziegenfuss7417]

What r those Relays in the fuse box after you pull it apart

[@adriannabaker2079]

I have a 2004 ram 2500 5.7 and my passenger side high beam is out so i went to change the bulb but as soon as i put a new bulb in it automatticly lights up no switch on or key in any ideas

[@halnutt1790]

Got same issue not into soldering circuit boards. I sweat pipes (plumber) Do you know if the circuit board is the same for 5.9l to 4.7l to 3.6l trucks? 2002 4x4 ram1500 5.9l with AC.

[@davidessien5465]

2005 Chrysler 300 Limited. Single turn signal doesn't work but hazard light blinks normally when the switch is turned on, wipers too doesn't work. Mostly for the trafficator / turn signal what could make it to be inoperative and how can I fix the problem in that car? Can you guide me please, on the repair procedure and wiring diagram to help me fix the problem?

[@angrygnome4779]

Whats the diagnostic tool you have?

[@petekoutsouris7960]

I’m not sure if you still reply to comments on this video but how did you secure the pin after drilling those plastic fasteners out? Great video by the way!

[@Zewestcoaster]

I drilled out the top of the plastic post so a flat top wood screw would thread in there with a washer on it. This solution may not work if you have relays populated in the two spots covering the posts. I didn't have relays there...