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2002 Chrysler 300M Special Won't Start with P0016, P0068, P0344, and P0513 Fault Codes

Model: 2002 Chrysler 300m Special Fault Code: P0016 Posted: 2015-06-25 23:16

My 2002 Chrysler 300M Special suddenly stopped running while driving at 65 mph on the highway. After attempting to restart, it failed to start and displayed several diagnostic trouble codes: P0016, P0068, P0344, and P0513. The P0513 code has since cleared, but the vehicle remains inoperable. I've already inspected key sensors including the camshaft, crankshaft, and throttle position sensors—none show signs of failure. When I removed a spark plug coil and tested for spark under KOEO (Key On, Engine Off) conditions, there was no spark detected. Additionally, the fuel pump does not activate when turning the key on, which is unusual. I’ve checked the wiring harness from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) forward and found no visible damage. However, when I temporarily shorted the crankshaft position sensor’s 5V reference to ground, the fuel pump activated—indicating a potential issue with power delivery to the fuel pump circuit. My scan tool shows no live data, though it can read and clear codes. The vehicle has approximately 116,000 miles and is equipped with a remote starter. I have experience using a digital voltmeter (DVOM) and have verified that the 10-amp fuse for the PCM has no voltage under KOEO conditions. An ohm test on the ASD relay showed 71 ohms (within acceptable range of 75 ohms). Given these symptoms—no spark, no fuel pump activation at key-on, and persistent fault codes—I suspect a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM), though I’m not certain. The failure coincided with resuming cruise control at highway speeds, which raises concerns about potential issues related to the clockspring or engine timing components. I’ve also confirmed that the airbag warning light stays on until the key is turned off and all dashboard lights function normally. No prior incidents such as deep water exposure, dead battery, or fuel depletion were observed.

Related fault codes
P0016P0068P0344P0513
Comments (8)
Anonymous 2015-06-26 07:29

Before attempting any electrical jumps, ensure you're fully confident—jumping circuits can damage sensitive components. The fuel pump only receives power for about 3 seconds when the engine is off. This timing makes it difficult to test independently. Do you have a remote starter? Do you own and know how to use a digital voltmeter (DVOM)? Let’s begin with a KOEO check: is there 12V at the spark plug coil? Check all fuses, especially under the hood—use a DVOM for accurate voltage readings. Remember: KOEO = Key On, Engine Off.

Anonymous 2015-06-26 14:38

The sensor jump was accidental—the crankshaft position sensor is located in a hard-to-access area. Yes, the vehicle has a remote starter installed. I own and am proficient with using a digital voltmeter (DVOM).

Anonymous 2015-06-26 14:49

Check for 12V at the spark plug coils under KOEO conditions. The suggestion to jump circuits should be approached cautiously—computers are sensitive to voltage spikes. Do you understand that the fuel pump only receives power for a few seconds when the key is turned on? This makes self-testing difficult. Were there any pre-existing issues such as deep water, dead battery, or running out of gas before the failure?

Anonymous 2015-06-26 16:55

Yes, I understand the fuel pump's timing behavior. I have a basic AAS (Automotive Advanced Systems) certification from about 10 years ago but haven’t used it extensively and have forgotten many details. To answer your question: there were no warning signs prior to the failure. The vehicle had been refilled with gas and was driving at highway speeds (over 65 mph) for nearly an hour. It ran smoothly until I resumed cruise control—then it suddenly died and would not restart.

Anonymous 2015-06-26 17:17

End of day thought: The failure occurred when resuming cruise control—this suggests a potential issue with the clockspring. Does the horn function? Is the airbag light on or is there a bulb test needed? I’ll verify this further and post more details once I’ve tested it.

Anonymous 2015-06-29 16:45

Under KOEO conditions, I tested the spark plug coils and found no voltage. The airbag warning light remains on until the key is turned off. All standard dashboard lights function normally when the key is turned on. I used a DVOM to check fuses under the hood—no voltage was detected at the 10-amp PCM fuse (KOEO). The ASD relay ohm test showed 71 ohms, which is within specification (75 ohms). These findings strongly point toward a failing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) as the root cause.

Anonymous 2016-04-03 19:05

Did you resolve this issue? I own a 2003 Chrysler Concorde and it died under similar conditions—driving at 65 mph on highway with cruise control engaged. It won’t start, and I have the exact same codes: P0016, P0068, P0344, and P0513. Your solution would be incredibly helpful to get me back on the road quickly. Thanks in advance.

Anonymous 2016-07-07 23:09

The timing belt tensioner bolt sheared off completely, destroying the engine. I did not remove the cylinder heads or inspect pistons directly, but one of the six cylinders only produced 30 psi of compression—the rest were significantly lower.