The engine control module (ECM) determines engine misfire by detecting variations in crankshaft speed. Crankshaft speed variations can also occur when a vehicle is operating over a rough road. The wheel speed sensor produces an alternating current (AC) voltage that increases with wheel speed. The ECM receives a rough road signal from an electronic brake control module (EBCM), if equipped with the anti-lock brake system (ABS). The ABS can determine if the vehicle is on a rough road surface based on the signal from each wheel speed sensor. On vehicles with Non-ABS, a rough road signal is sent from a wheel speed sensor located at the left front wheel to the ECM. The ECM can determine if the vehicle is on a rough road surface based on the signal from the wheel speed sensor. When the ECM detects a rough road condition, misfire diagnostics will be disabled.

P1396

The ECM detects an invalid rough road signal from the wheel speed sensor.

P1397

The ECM detects an invalid rough road signal from the EBCM.

DTC P1396 and P1397 are Type C DTCs.

DTC P1396 and P1397 are Type C DTCs.

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Electrical Information Reference

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Engine running, DTCs P1396 or P1397 should not set.

Important: If the ABS lamp is illuminated, the ABS system must be diagnosed prior to using this diagnostic procedure. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle .

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector of the wheel speed sensor or the electronic brake control module (EBCM) - if equipped with ABS.
2. Ignition ON, test for 4.8-5.2 volts on the rough road signal circuit.

⇒	If greater than 5.2 volts, test the rough road signal circuit for a short to voltage . If the circuit/connections test normal, replace the ECM.

⇒	If less than 4.8 volts, test the rough road signal circuit for a short to ground or an open. If the circuit/connections test normal, replace the ECM.

3. Ignition OFF, test for less than 5 ohms between the low reference circuit of the wheel speed sensor and ground.

⇒	If greater than 5 ohms, test the low reference circuit of the wheel speed sensor for an open/high resistance. If the circuit/connections test normal, replace the ECM.

4. If all circuits/connections test normal, test or replace the wheel speed sensor or EBCM - if equipped with ABS.

Important: This procedure is for vehicle without ABS. If the wheel speed sensor harness is damaged in any way, DO NOT repair the harness.

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector of the wheel speed sensor.

Notice: Support the lower control arms in the normal horizontal position in order to avoid damage to the drive axles. Do not operate the vehicle in gear with the wheels hanging down at full travel.

2. Raise and support the drive wheels.
3. Engine running, place the transmission into 2nd gear or drive for an automatic.
4. Test for 70 mV AC between the rough road signal circuit and low reference of the wheel speed sensor.

⇒	If less than 70 mV AC, replace the wheel speed sensor.

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for engine control module or electronic brake control module replacement, setup, and programming