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DTC codes / Chrysler codes / P1697

P1697 · ChryslerPCM Failure SRI Mile Not Stored

P1697 on Chrysler vehicles means the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failed to store the System Readiness Indicator (SRI) mileage, which is the odometer value recorded when emissions monitors last completed. The PCM detected a mismatch or missing value in its non-volatile memory for that SRI mile, so it cannot verify that the readiness status and mileage are correctly paired.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeChrysler specific
SeverityMedium
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaComputer and output circuits

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the Check Engine Light (MIL) with no other driveability complaints.
  • Often no symptoms besides the warning light, because the fault is a memory integrity issue rather than a running fault.
  • Inspection or emissions testing failure because the SRI mile is not stored and readiness cannot be verified.
  • Intermittent MIL that may clear after several key cycles if the PCM rewrites the value successfully.
  • Possible stored companion codes for PCM internal memory or communication faults, though not always present.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. PCM internal non-volatile memory corruption or failure preventing the SRI mile from being written.
  2. Low battery voltage or a voltage spike during a key-on or engine-start event that interrupted the PCM write cycle.
  3. A recent battery replacement or PCM power loss that cleared the SRI mile and the PCM did not relearn it.
  4. Aftermarket tuning or a PCM reflash that left the SRI mile uninitialized or mismatched.
  5. Poor ground or power supply connection at the PCM causing intermittent write failures.
  6. A faulty or mismatched PCM installed without proper initialization of the SRI mile.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Verify battery state of charge and perform a voltage drop test on the PCM power and ground circuits before condemning the module.
  2. Record all stored codes and freeze-frame data, then clear codes and drive the vehicle through a complete readiness monitor cycle to see if P1697 returns.
  3. Check for any aftermarket programmer or recent PCM replacement and confirm the PCM part number and calibration match the vehicle.
  4. Use a factory-level scan tool to perform a PCM reset or SRI mile initialization procedure if the manufacturer supports it.
  5. If the code persists after a verified good power supply and correct calibration, replace and program the PCM with the correct VIN and mileage.
  6. After repair, complete a full drive cycle and confirm the SRI mile is stored and all monitors run before returning the vehicle.

Why the SRI mile goes missing

  • A weak battery that still starts the engine can drop voltage low enough during cranking to abort the PCM's SRI write, so load-test the battery before replacing the PCM.
  • This code often appears after a dead battery or a jump-start, and a simple clear-and-relearn drive cycle resolves it without any parts.
  • Do not assume the PCM is bad just because P1697 is stored; check for aftermarket tuners or a recently installed used PCM that was never initialized.
  • The SRI mile is tied to emissions readiness, so some scan tools show monitors as complete while the stored mileage is blank, which is the mismatch this code reports.
  • A poor chassis ground near the PCM can cause intermittent memory write failures that mimic a failing module, so inspect and clean grounds first.

Can I keep driving with P1697?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive because P1697 is a memory integrity fault rather than a running fault, but avoid repeated short trips and low-voltage cranking until it is resolved. Address it promptly so emissions readiness can be verified and the MIL does not mask a more serious code.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Guidance is general and written for Chrysler vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.

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