Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If the driver’s door is opened when the key is in the
ignition and not turned to the ON position, a chime will
sound to remind you to remove the key.
CAUTION!
Always remove the key from the ignition, and lock
all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) prevents
unauthorized operation of the vehicle by disabling the
engine. The system will shut the engine down after 2
seconds of running if an invalid key is used to start the
vehicle. This system utilizes ignition keys which have an
electronic chip (transponder) embedded into them. Onlykeys that have been programmed to the vehicle can be
used to start and operate the vehicle for longer than the
2 second validation time period.
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or
unlocked. During normal operation, the SKIS indicator
light will come on for 3 seconds immediately after the
ignition switch is turned on for a bulb check. Afterwards,
if the bulb remains on, this indicates a malfunction in the
electronics. If the bulb begins to flash immediately after
the ignition switch is turned on, this indicates that an
invalid key is being used to start the vehicle. Both of
these conditions will result in the engine being shut
down after 2 seconds of running. Keep in mind that a key
which has not been programmed is also considered an
invalid key even if it is cut to fit the ignition for that
vehicle.
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle
Seat Belts
Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts,
frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced
immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.
Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if
they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.). If there is any question regarding belt or retractor
condition, replace the belt.
Airbag Warning Light
The light should come on and remain on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned on. If the bulb is not lit during starting, have it
replaced. If the light stays on or comes on while driving,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.
Defrosters
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should feel the air
directed against the windshield.
Safety Checks You Should Make Outside The
Vehicle
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects
lodged in the tread. Inspect for tread cuts or sidewall
cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness and tires (includ-
ing spare) for proper pressure.
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of all exterior lights
while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high
beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 65
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INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION
1. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
2. Brake Warning Light
The red BRAKE warning light will come on
when the ignition is first turned on, and stay on
briefly as a bulb check. If the bulb does not
come on during starting, have the bulb re-
paired promptly. If the light stays on longer, it may be an
indication that the parking brake has not been released.
If the light remains on when the parking brake is off, it
indicates a possible brake hydraulic system malfunction
or low fluid level. In this case, the light will remain on
until the cause is corrected. If a brake malfunction is
indicated, immediate repair is necessary and continued
operation of the vehicle in this condition is dangerous.3. Turn Signal Indicator Light
The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal
when the turn signal lever is operated.
If the vehicle electronics sense that the vehicle has
traveled about one mile with the turn signals on, a chime
will sound to alert you to turn the signals off. If either
indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective
outside light bulb.
4. High Beam Indicator Light
Indicates that headlights are on high beam.
5. Malfunction Indicator Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic system
called OBD that monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. The light will illu-
minate when the key is in the ON position before engine
start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key
from OFF to ON, have the condition checked promptly.
164 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap,
poor fuel quality, etc. may illuminate the light after
engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light
stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In
most situations the vehicle will drive normally and will
not require towing.
The Malfunction Indicator Light flashes to alert you to
serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of
power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle
should be serviced as soon as possible if this occurs. (See
page 313 for more information.)
6. Airbag Warning Light
This light turns on and remains on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned ON. If the light is not on
during starting, stays on, or turns on while
driving, have the system inspected by an authorized
dealer as soon as possible.7. Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System.
The light will turn on when the ignition switch is
turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as
four seconds.
If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving, it
indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system
is not functioning and that service is required. However,
the conventional brake system will continue to operate
normally if the BRAKE warning light is not on.
If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced
as soon as possible to restore the benefits of Anti-Lock
brakes. If the ABS light does not turn on when the
Ignition switch is turned to the ON position, have the
light inspected by an authorized dealer.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 165
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12. Tire Pressure Monitor Warning Light
This light will turn on continuously when there
is a low tire pressure condition. The light will
also turn on if a problem exists with any tire
sensor. When a system fault is detected, the
indicator lamp will flash repetitively for ten seconds. The
flash cycle will repeat every ten minutes or until the fault
condition is removed and reset. The light will remain on
or flashing until the tire pressure is properly set or the
problem with the sensor is corrected.
This light will turn on momentarily as a bulb check when
the engine is started.
When the tire pressure monitoring system warning light
is lit, one or more of your tires is significantly underin-
flated. You should stop and check your tires as soon as
possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure as
indicated on the tire and loading information placard.
Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes thetire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinfla-
tion also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and
may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Each tire, including the spare, should be checked
monthly when cold and set to the recommended inflation
pressure as specified in the tire and loading information
placard. (See page 269 for more information.)
13. Temperature Gauge
The temperature gauge shows engine coolant tempera-
ture. Any reading within the normal range indicates that
the engine cooling system is operating satisfactorily.
The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher tempera-
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades,
or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to
exceed the upper limits of the normal operating range.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 167
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17. Seat Belt Reminder Light
When the ignition switch is first turned ON, this
light will turn on for 5 to 8 seconds as a bulb check.
During the bulb check, if the driver’s seat belt is
unbuckled, a chime will sound. After the bulb check or
when driving, if the driver seat belt remains unbuckled,
the Seat Belt Warning Light will flash or remain on
continuously. Refer toEnhanced Driver Seat Belt Re-
minder System (BeltAlert)in the Occupant Restraints
section for more information.
18. Cruise Indicator Light
This indicator lights when the speed control
system is turned ON.
19. Odometer/Trip Odometer
The odometer shows the total distance the vehicle has
been driven. The trip odometer shows individual trip
mileage.U.S. federal regulations require that upon transfer of
vehicle ownership, the seller certify to the purchaser the
correct mileage that the vehicle has been driven. There-
fore, if the odometer reading is changed during repair or
replacement, be sure to keep a record of the reading
before and after the service so that the correct mileage can
be determined.
20. Transmission Range Indicator
This display indicator shows the automatic transmission
gear selection.
21. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank when
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 169
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22. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light —
If Equipped (5.7L Engine Only)
This light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control system. If a problem
is detected the light will come on while the
engine is running. Cycle the ignition key when
the vehicle has completely stopped and the gear selector
is placed in the P (Park) position. The light should turn
off. If the light remains lit with the engine running your
vehicle will usually be drivable, however, see your dealer
for service as soon as possible. If the light is flashing
when the engine is running, immediate service is re-
quired and you may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your vehicle may
require towing. The light will come on when the ignition
is first turned on and remain on briefly as a bulb check.
If the light does not come on during starting, have the
system checked by an authorized dealer.23. Front Fog Light Indicator Light— If Equipped
This light shows the front fog lights are ON.
24. Voltage Warning Light
This light monitors the electrical system voltage.
The light should turn on momentarily as the
engine is started. If the light stays on or turns on while
driving, it indicates a problem with the charging system.
Immediate service should be obtained.
170 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
▫Maintenance-Free Battery................324
▫Air Conditioner Maintenance.............325
▫Power Steering Fluid Check..............326
▫Body Lubrication.....................327
▫Windshield Wiper Blades................327
▫Windshield Washers — Front And Rear.....328
▫Exhaust System......................328
▫Cooling System.......................329
▫Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses.......334
▫Brake System........................334
▫Automatic Transmission................336
▫Transfer Case........................339
▫Front/Rear Axle Fluid..................340▫Appearance Care And Protection From
Corrosion...........................340
Fuse Panel...........................345
▫Interior Fuses........................345
▫Underhood Fuses
(Power Distribution Center)..............346
▫Underhood Fuses
(Integrated Power Module)..............348
Vehicle Storage........................350
Replacement Bulbs......................350
Bulb Replacement......................351
▫Head Light..........................351
▫Front Turn Signal.....................353
▫Front Fog Light......................354
308 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE