The engine control module (ECM) identifies engine misfire by detecting variations in crankshaft speed. Crankshaft speed variations can also occur when a vehicle is operating over a rough road. The ECM receives a rough road signal by a rough road sensor or an electronic brake control module (EBCM), if equipped with the antilock brake system (ABS). The ABS can detect if the vehicle is on the rough surface based on wheel acceleration/deceleration data supplied by each wheel speed sensor. This information is sent to the ECM by the EBCM through the rough road signal circuit. The rough road sensor is a wheel speed sensor. The wheel speed sensor produces an alternating current (AC) voltage that increases with wheel speed. The ECM receives a rough road signal from a wheel speed sensor located at the left front wheel. 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 excessive variation in the rough road signal from the wheel speed sensor.

P1397

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

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

1. Engine running, DTC P1396 or P1397 should not set.
2. If the vehicle passes the Circuit/System Verification Test, then operate the vehicle within the conditions for running the DTC. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that are captured in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records Data List.

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

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.