C0961 Dodge Lancer Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0961 Dodge Lancer code definition:
C0961 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Dodge Lancer.

C0961 Dodge Lancer is defined as Cylinder 3 Injector Circuit Malfunction. This code means the PCM (powertrain control module, also known as ECM or engine control) has detected a problem in the injector or its wiring, or in injector circuit for cylinder 3. Other serious codes may cause this code to pop up, and they may come with dangerous drivability issues that may expose you to safety risks and cause damage to the engine in the long run.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0961 Dodge Lancer diagnostic trouble code may include:

Faulty O2 Sensor
Lack of power
If the DPF is not cleared the ECU will revert to the "Limp Home Mode" until the situation is corrected
Engine surge

Possible Causes :

Rarely - faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM-programming required after replacement)
Rough running engine due to misfiring plugs. Many engines have misfire codes to indicate the cylinder effected, such as P0307 for number 7.
Fuel with a large percentage of sulfur will clog the DPF quickly

Common Misdiagnoses

Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
Kick-Down Switch Failed Short Problem
Park/Neutral Postion (PNP) Switch Circuit Engine Torque Signal Circuit Problem

Repair Processes :

Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector. Pack the connector cavity with dielectric silicone compound (same stuff they use for light bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and reassemble. Look at the plug wires to make sure they are not burnt or laying on the exhaust.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0961 Dodge Lancer is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C0961 Dodge Lancer.

Fortunately, C0961 Dodge Lancer is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.