What causes Chrysler code 12?

Battery disconnected or replaced since the last key cycle Open direct battery feed wire to the logic module or SBEC Blown memory or ignition fuse in the power feed Corroded controller connector pin on the memory circuit On some models an air flow sensor circuit fault sets this same code

How do I fix Chrysler code 12?

Clear the code first since routine battery work triggers it Cycle the key on and off and count the flashes to confirm the code returns Check the memory fuse and the direct battery feed to the controller Measure voltage at the controller memory pin with the key off Inspect the controller connector for corrosion and backed out pins Clear the code and retest after the feed holds steady voltage

Chrysler 12 Memory Standby Power Lost To Controller

Q: What does Chrysler code 12 mean?

Chrysler code 12. Memory Standby Power Lost To Controller. Applies to Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth and Jeep 1983-1995.

Make: Chrysler (1983-1995)
Category: Powertrain - Computer and Auxiliary Controls
Severity: Check Engine Light
Applies to: Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth and Jeep 1983-1995

How to read it

Code 12 reads as 1 flash, pause, 2 flashes on the check-engine light. Cycle the ignition key on, off, on, off, then leave it on with the engine off, and count the flashes on the power loss or check-engine light.

New to flash codes? The How to Read Chrysler OBD-I Codes with the Key Cycle walks through the test and what the numbers mean. The general OBD-I guide covers the rest.

What does Chrysler code 12 mean?

Memory Standby Power Lost To Controller

Common causes of 12

Battery disconnected or replaced since the last key cycle
Open direct battery feed wire to the logic module or SBEC
Blown memory or ignition fuse in the power feed
Corroded controller connector pin on the memory circuit
On some models an air flow sensor circuit fault sets this same code

How to fix 12

Clear the code first since routine battery work triggers it
Cycle the key on and off and count the flashes to confirm the code returns
Check the memory fuse and the direct battery feed to the controller
Measure voltage at the controller memory pin with the key off
Inspect the controller connector for corrosion and backed out pins
Clear the code and retest after the feed holds steady voltage

Sources and review

Review: qualified. Read the source limits below.

Chrysler OBD-I trouble codes, model and year page
live reference page (troublecodes.net)
Supports: code identity and Chrysler meaning
Fetched directly from the linked model page. Single publisher, so the record is qualified, not verified. Causes and check order are curator-written from the circuit the code names.
Chrysler OBD-I trouble codes, model and year page
live reference page (troublecodes.net)
Supports: code identity and Chrysler meaning
Fetched directly from the linked model page. Single publisher, so the record is qualified, not verified. Causes and check order are curator-written from the circuit the code names.

Last updated 2026-10-10.

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