Code P1047 on Dodge vehicles indicates a short to ground in the shift lamp indicator circuit. This indicator, present on manual transmission vehicles, signals the driver the optimal time to shift gears. An electrical fault in this circuit disrupts the communication between the control module and the indicator.
Common Symptoms
- Check engine light on (code P1047).
- Shift indicator light inoperative or flashing.
- No other mechanical symptoms (driving remains normal).
Main Causes
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Short circuit in wiring | Rubbed wires, damaged insulation near the exhaust or chassis. |
| Faulty connector | Oxidation or bent pins at the indicator or control module. |
| Faulty shift indicator | Burnt-out bulb or defective LED. |
| Control module issue | Internal failure of the PCM (Powertrain Control Module). |
Diagnostic Steps
1. Locate the shift indicator circuit
- Service manual: Consult the electrical diagram specific to the model (e.g., Dodge Charger, Ram 1500).
- Location: The indicator is usually integrated into the dashboard or instrument cluster.
2. Inspect wiring and connectors
- Critical area: Check the wires between the PCM and the indicator, especially near hot or moving areas (wheel well, steering column).
- Continuity test: Use a multimeter to detect a break or short to ground.
3. Test the shift indicator
- Remove the cluster: Access the bulb/LED and test it with an external 12V power source.
- Resistance: Measure the bulb’s resistance (expected: 2–5 Ω for a standard bulb).
4. Check the PCM module
- Scan tool: Use a Dodge-compatible tool (e.g., WiTECH) to check live data and internal errors.
- Circuit power: Measure the supply voltage (12V) at the indicator connector.
Solutions and Costs
| Problem | Solution | Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Damaged wiring | Repair or replace the harness. | 50–200 |
| Faulty indicator | Replace the bulb/LED (e.g., Mopar 68037187AA). | 10–50 |
| Oxidized connector | Clean or replace the connector. | 20–80 |
| Faulty PCM | Reprogramming or replacement (dealer). | 500–1,500 |
Best Practices
- Protect wiring: Use thermal sleeves near the exhaust.
- Check TSBs: Look for Dodge technical service bulletins related to code P1047 (e.g., TSB 18-024-20 for Ram 2500).
FAQ
Q: Can I ignore code P1047?
A: Yes, but the shift indicator will not work, which may increase fuel consumption on eco-optimized models.
Q: Why does the code return after repair?
A: A poorly insulated wire or a faulty PCM may persist. Check with an advanced scan tool.
Pro tip: On Dodge Challenger or Charger (manual transmission), use a WiTECH tool to access specific PCM parameters and recalibrate the system after repair.