Dodge Warning Lights Guide

Dodge Warning Lights Guide

Whether it’s the dreaded check engine alert or an improperly closed door, dashboard warning lights are how your vehicle communicates with you when something goes wrong. These warning lights activate every time you start your car, illuminating briefly as your vehicle warms up, and they ensure that all systems are safe and ready to go. Sometimes, one light stays on, indicating there’s an issue. You have to be equally alert if one or more warning lights fail to illuminate briefly. If they aren’t functioning, you may not be able to detect the issue they’re meant to warn you about.

Knowing what your Dodge warning lights actually mean is important knowledge to have, as it can help you prevent a breakdown and save you a lot of money in the long run by helping you spot problems early. Our team at Campbell Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) wants to share what we know about the different Dodge warning lights.

What Does Each Dodge Warning Light Color Mean?

Warning lights can appear in different colors, each with a specific meaning.

• Red: This indicates emergencies and that the issue must be resolved immediately. You mustn’t drive your vehicle if you get a red warning light on your Dodge’s dashboard, and you should get an authorized service from an experienced technician as soon as possible.
• Orange and yellow: These lights remind you that a service needs be done soon, such as an oil change, or that something is wrong with your vehicle’s emissions system. Although not an emergency, you should have a qualified technician look at the issue quickly.
• Blue and green: These colors usually indicate that a certain vehicle function is on or currently in use.

Common Warning Lights for Dodge Vehicles

If you see one or more of the following warning lights on your Dodge’s dashboard, it may be time to bring in your car for service to let us determine the problem that’s causing each warning light to turn on.

• Fog lamp: This means that your car’s fog lamps are illuminated.
• Airbag fault: If this light remains illuminated after starting, it indicates that your vehicle has found a fault in the airbag system and the computer has set a code. It’s recommended to have a professional repair of the supplemental restraint system.
• Door ajar: This indicates that a door, including the trunk or hood, isn’t closed, and leaving your vehicle in this condition overnight can drain the battery. If you can’t spot which one it is, open and close all doors, including the trunk and hood, to make sure they’re all shut tight.
• Lamp out: This indicates that an exterior light on your vehicle isn’t functioning properly.
• Electronic stability system (ESP) fault: This indicates an issue with your vehicle’s ESP or traction control/anti-skid system.
• Gas cap: This light means your vehicle’s gas cap isn’t tightened properly. If this issue isn’t addressed, your check engine light will often illuminate as well.
• Reduced power warning: This indicates that the engine computer has limited engine power output. The engine control module has several levels of reduced power, depending on what parts have failed in its control system — this usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool.
• Coolant temp warning: This indicates that the temperature has exceeded the normal limits. You should check the coolant level, radiator cap, and fan operation, and look for signs of possible leaks.
• Oil pressure warning: If this light stays lit, there’s a loss of oil pressure. Make sure to check the oil level and pressure immediately.
• Anti-lock brake system (ABS) light: The anti-lock brake computer has set a code and requires professional diagnosis.
• Brake system: This indicates one of a few possible conditions: a problem with the ABS, an issue with the braking system, low brake fluid, or the parking brake having been left on.
• Overdrive light: This symbol indicates that your vehicle’s overdrive system has been manually turned off. Usually, the overdrive system is controlled by an on/off switch.
• Security alert: If the symbol lights momentarily, it may indicate that the ignition switch is locked and needs the proper transponder-equipped key (chip key) to restart. If the symbol is visible when your vehicle is on, it usually means an issue with the security system.
• Washer fluid reminder: This indicates that the washer fluid is low, and it’s time to fill the washer fluid reservoir.
• Transmission temperature: If you see the transmission temperature light illuminate while driving, your vehicle’s automatic transmission fluid may be too hot. Excessive heat is one of the primary causes of transmission failures, so be cautious if you notice this light on your dash.
• Oil change reminder: This indicates that your vehicle’s oil has expired, and it’s time for a fresh refill.
• Battery/charging alert: This light indicates that the voltage is below the normal level and your car’s charging system isn’t functioning correctly. It’s best to check the battery condition, terminals, and alternator belt.
• Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): This indicates that your TPMS has found a tire with low air pressure or that there’s an issue with your vehicle’s sensors.
• Cruise control: If your vehicle’s computer has detected a problem, this light will stay orange and won’t turn off until the issue has been resolved. Some common faults that cause this light to stay illuminated include a faulty brake switch, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning speed sensor.
• Safety belt reminder: If you hear a chiming or beeping sound, it indicates that you need to fasten your seatbelt. If your seat belt is fastened, the warning light may come on if you have lots of weight on one of the seats — either buckle the seat belt or lessen the load on that seat.

Not Just Your Dodge Dashboard Warning Lights

The world of warning lights can be a little confusing, especially when you cross over from another car brand. Most automakers will try to keep a general symbol consistent with their warning lights, but you shouldn’t expect these symbols to be universal. It’s always best to review your owner’s manual for more information or reach out to your dealer’s sales department. At Campbell CDJR, we always have a specialist on hand who can make an appointment to teach you about your car’s systems and more.

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Dodge Dashboard by Billie Grace Ward is licensed with CC BY 2.0