P1607 on 2015-2016 Chrysler 200: PCM Shutdown Timer Fault Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2015-2016 Chrysler 200

The 2015-2016 Chrysler 200 (UF generation) is particularly known for this code due to factory software calibration issues. Chrysler released multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) advising that a PCM software update is the required fix for P1607, often along with a cluster of other seemingly unrelated codes. This indicates the problem is more likely a software bug than a widespread hardware failure on this specific platform and its platform-mates like the Dodge Dart.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light is on
• Hard starting, especially when the engine is cold
• Engine may stall immediately after starting
• Rough idle, particularly during a cold start (may be accompanied by code P050D)
• Erratic engine performance
• Engine startup flare and idle surge
• In some cases, a no-start, no-crank condition

Most Likely Causes

1. Outdated PCM Software 🔴 High Probability Chrysler issued multiple TSBs (e.g., #18-023-16 REV. C) specifically to fix this code with a software update on the 2015 Chrysler 200 with the 2.4L engine (Sales Codes ED6 or ED8). This TSB also applies to the Dodge Dart.
   How to confirm: A Chrysler dealership or a shop with access to OEM service information can check your vehicle's VIN against known TSBs. The dealer uses a wiTECH scan tool to verify software versions.
   Typical fix: Reprogramming (reflashing) the PCM with the latest manufacturer software. The Transmission Control Module (TCM) may also require an update at the same time. This service typically costs between $100 and $250 if not covered by warranty.
   Est. part cost: $0-$250
2. Weak or Failing Battery 🟡 Medium Probability Low system voltage (below 10-12 volts) during the engine shutdown sequence can disrupt the PCM's ability to perform its internal timer checks correctly, triggering the code. Modern vehicles are very sensitive to battery health.
   How to confirm: Perform a load test on the battery. A simple voltage check is not sufficient. Most auto parts stores can do this for free. The battery should be tested to ensure it can hold a charge under load.
   Typical fix: Replace the vehicle's 12V battery. The Chrysler 200 often uses an AGM battery, which can be more expensive than a standard flooded battery.
   Est. part cost: $150-$350
3. Poor Electrical Connections ⚪ Low Probability Corrosion on battery terminals or loose/corroded main ground straps can cause intermittent voltage drops, mimicking a failing battery and confusing the PCM.
   How to confirm: Visually inspect battery terminals for corrosion. Follow the main negative battery cable to its connection points on the chassis and engine block, ensuring they are clean, tight, and free of rust. Some owners have added a supplementary ground wire as a preventative measure. 🎬 Watch how to install a battery and add a ground wire.
   Typical fix: Clean battery terminals and posts with a wire brush. Tighten all related ground connections. A Mopar parts diagram shows the ground strap location for reference.
   Est. part cost: $1-$20

Rare But Worth Checking

• Faulty PCM Power Relay: The relay that supplies power to the PCM can fail or have corroded contacts, causing intermittent power loss to the computer. This is a relatively inexpensive part to check before condemning the PCM itself. One owner of a related vehicle fixed a P1607 code by replacing this relay for under $20.
• Defective Powertrain Control Module (PCM): If the software is up-to-date and all power/ground systems are verified to be working correctly, the PCM itself may have an internal hardware fault. This is the most expensive and least likely cause. Replacement can cost over $800 and requires programming to the vehicle's VIN.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check for Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): The first and most important step. Contact a Chrysler dealer with your VIN or use an online service to check for TSBs like #18-023-16 REV. C. This TSB specifically lists P1607 as a code fixed by a software update for the 2.4L engine.
2. Perform PCM Reflash: If an applicable TSB is found, have the dealer or a qualified shop perform the PCM software update. This resolves the majority of cases. The process requires a stable power supply 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide on how to fix code P1607. (battery charger connected) during the flash.
3. Test the Battery and Charging System: If the code returns or no TSB applies, have the battery professionally load-tested. A weak battery is a known cause of various electrical gremlins on these cars. Check the alternator output to ensure it's between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running.
4. Inspect Power and Ground Connections: Thoroughly inspect and clean the battery terminals, posts, and cable ends. Follow the main negative cable to the chassis and engine block, ensuring the ground points are clean and tight. Poor grounds are a common source of difficult-to-diagnose electrical issues.
5. Check the PCM Power Relay: Locate the PCM relay in the under-hood fuse box (Power Distribution Center). Swap it with an identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn) to see if the problem resolves. If it does, replace the faulty relay. A new relay is inexpensive.
6. Suspect the PCM: If all previous steps fail to resolve the code, the PCM may have an internal hardware failure and require replacement. This is the last resort due to high cost. A replacement PCM must be programmed with your car's VIN.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Software Update — This is not a physical part, but a service. It's the most common fix documented by Chrysler to correct the internal timer rationality fault.
  Trusted brands: Mopar (via dealership service)
  OEM price range: $100-$250
  Aftermarket price range: N/A
• Automotive Battery — A weak battery is the second most common cause, as low voltage disrupts the PCM's shutdown procedures. Many Chrysler 200s use an AGM type battery.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Interstate, DieHard, Duralast
  OEM price range: $200-$350
  Aftermarket price range: $150-$250
• PCM Power Relay (OEM #4727370AA) — A faulty relay can cause intermittent power to the PCM, triggering this code. It's an inexpensive and easy part to swap for diagnosis.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Hella
  OEM price range: $25-$40
  Aftermarket price range: $10-$20

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P050D — Cold Start Rough Idle. This code is explicitly mentioned in TSBs alongside P1607 as being resolved by a PCM software update.
• P0335 — Crankshaft Position Sensor Circuit. Also listed in manufacturer TSBs as being related to the same PCM software issue.
• P2610 — PCM Internal Engine Off Timer Performance. This code is very similar to P1607 and points directly to a PCM timer issue, often fixed by the same software update.
• P0133 — O2 Sensor 1/1 Slow Response. Another code frequently cited in the same TSBs, indicating the PCM's interpretation of sensor data is affected by the software bug.
• U0402 — Implausible Data Received From TCM. This indicates a communication issue with the Transmission Control Module, which can also be caused by the PCM software fault.
• P0456 — EVAP System Small Leak. This code is also listed in the same TSBs, suggesting the PCM software update corrects diagnostic logic for the EVAP system.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 18-023-16 REV. C: Involves reprogramming the PCM on 2015 Chrysler 200s and Dodge Darts with the 2.4L engine (Sales Codes ED6 or ED8) to fix P1607 and other codes.
• 18-008-16: Addresses P1607 on 2016 Ram ProMaster City vehicles with the 2.4L engine via a PCM software update.
• 18-011-16: Fixes P1607 on 2016 Dodge Journey vehicles with the 2.4L engine by reprogramming the PCM.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Multiple TSBs (including #18-023-16 REV. C, #18-051-16, and #18-022-17 REV. A) were issued by Chrysler specifically to address P1607 and other codes on the 2015-2016 Chrysler 200 via a PCM software update.
• Owner experiences on forums frequently confirm that a PCM reflash at the dealership is the definitive fix, especially when P1607 appears with other codes mentioned in the TSBs.
• A Reddit user with a 2015 Chrysler 200 experienced a cascade of electrical faults and error codes after replacing a dead battery, including a P0610 code, highlighting the platform's sensitivity to voltage irregularities.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• Battery Voltage (Engine Off) — expected: 12.6 Volts or higher. Failure: Below 12.4V indicates a discharged or failing battery.
• Charging System Voltage (Engine Running) — expected: 13.5 - 14.5 Volts. Failure: Voltage outside this range indicates a problem with the alternator or voltage regulator.
• PCM Input Voltage (Live Data) — expected: Must stay within 9V - 16V. Failure: Voltage dropping below 9V, especially during cranking, can corrupt PCM memory and trigger faults.
• PCM Power Relay Coil Resistance — expected: Approximately 70 - 90 Ohms. Failure: A reading of OL (open circuit) or zero ohms (short circuit) indicates a faulty relay coil.
• Ground Connection Voltage Drop — expected: Less than 50 millivolts (0.050 V). Failure: Voltage drop exceeding 50mV indicates excessive resistance in the ground circuit, requiring cleaning or repair.
• PCM Flashing Voltage — expected: Stable voltage between 13.2 and 13.5 Volts. Failure: Voltage dropping below 13.2V or climbing above 13.5V during the reflash process can cause the procedure to fail or corrupt the module.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH Diagnostic Application: Reprogram the PCM with the latest available software — This is the primary repair step outlined in multiple TSBs for code P1607. It updates the PCM's faulty logic for the shutdown timer.
• wiTECH Diagnostic Application: Reprogram the TCM with the latest available software — Some TSBs explicitly state that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) must also be updated to the latest software after the PCM has been flashed to ensure compatibility and prevent other issues.
• wiTECH Diagnostic Application: Clear all DTCs — This function is automatically presented after a successful flash procedure to clear any codes set in various modules during the reprogramming.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) — On the right side of the engine bay under the hood, near the battery. It is attached with three mounting bolts and has two large electrical connectors.. This is the module setting the code. Its connections must be clean and secure, and it requires good power and ground to function.
• Main Engine Bay Ground Stud — A dedicated metal stud in the engine bay, often near the positive jump-start terminal, used for the negative jumper cable connection.. This is a primary grounding point for the engine bay electrical system. Corrosion or looseness here can cause widespread voltage issues that can trigger a P1607.
• G200 (Reference from similar platform) — Located in the left kick panel area, inside the passenger cabin.. Interior grounds can affect modules located inside the car. While from a previous generation, it's a likely location for a main body ground.
• Transmission Mount Bolt — A 16mm bolt on the transmission housing.. Owners of similar Chrysler platforms have found the engine-to-chassis ground to be a weak point and have fixed electrical issues by adding a supplementary ground wire from the battery negative to this location.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube user 'Fix it Angel' (2010 Dodge Journey SE (related platform with 2.4L engine)) — P1607 PCM shutdown timer code, along with other codes.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initially suspected a bad PCM.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The PCM power relay (located at position K5 in the fuse box) was found to be visibly corroded. Replacing the faulty relay cleared the P1607 code.
• YouTube user 'The Detail G's' (2013 Chrysler 200 (previous generation)) — Intermittent no-start, no-crank condition.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) The owner was preparing to diagnose the ignition actuator pin next.
  ✅ What actually fixed it Based on forum advice, the owner added a 4-gauge supplementary ground wire from the battery negative terminal to a bolt on the transmission housing. This resolved the intermittent no-start condition.

When the Usual Fixes Don't Work

• While the most common fix for P1607 on this platform is a PCM software update, it should not be the only diagnostic step. A documented case on a related Dodge Journey with the same engine showed that a corroded PCM power relay (K5) was the true cause of the P1607 code. This highlights the importance of checking basic electrical components like fuses and relays before assuming the issue is complex software or a failed PCM, as a $20 relay can mimic a much more expensive problem.