2008 DODGE CHARGER SRT check engine

Key-In-Ignition Reminder
If you open the driver’s door and the key is in the
ignition, a chime will sound to remind you to remove the
key.
NOTE:The Key-In-Ignition reminder only sounds
when the ignition key is placed in the LOCK or ACC
position.
SENTRY KEYIMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
The Sentry Keyprevents unauthorized vehicle opera-
tion by disabling the engine. The system does not need to
be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless
of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked.
The system uses the factory-mated Fob with Integrated
Key and Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) to prevent unau-
thorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only fobs that are
programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and
operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in
two seconds if an invalid fob is used to start the engine.After turning the ignition switch to the ON position, the
Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light will turn on for
three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on
after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem
with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to
flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used
an invalid fob to start the engine. Either of these condi-
tions will result in the engine being shut off after two
seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Alarm Indicator Light turns on
during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for
longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in
the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle ser-
viced as soon as possible.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

2. Remove and replace the batteries. Avoid touching the
new batteries with your fingers. Skin oils may cause
battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with
rubbing alcohol.
3. Reposition the access door panel over the battery
opening and snap into place.
General Information
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules and
RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the
following conditions:
•This device may not cause harmful interference.
•This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired op-
eration.
NOTE:Changes or modifications not expressly ap-
proved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.If your Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter fails to
operate from a normal distance, check for these two
conditions:
1. A weak battery in the transmitter. The expected life of
the battery is a minimum of three years.
2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station
tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios.
REMOTE STARTING SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This system uses the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) trans-
mitter to start the engine conveniently from outside the
vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a
targeted range of 328 ft (100 m).
NOTE:The vehicle must be equipped with an auto-
matic transmission to be equipped with Remote Start.
24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Defroster
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield. See your
authorized dealer for service if your defroster is inoper-
able.
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear and uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects
lodged in the tread. Inspect the tread and sidewall for
cuts and cracks. Check the wheel nuts for tightness.
Check the tires (including spare) for proper pressure.
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights
while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high
beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.
Door Latches
Check for positive closing, latching, and locking.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel,
engine coolant, oil, or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or if fuel, power steering fluid, or
brake fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should be
located and corrected immediately.
76 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

if the HEADLIGHT switch is placed in the AUTO posi-
tion. In addition, the headlights will turn off when the
wipers are turned OFF if they were turned ON by this
feature.
The Headlights On with Wipers feature can be enabled or
disabled. Refer to ”Headlights On with Wipers,” under
“Personal Settings (Customer Programmable Features),”
under “Electronic Vehicle Information Center” in Section
4.
Adding Washer Fluid
The windshield washer fluid reservoir is located in the
front of the engine compartment. Be sure to check the
fluid level in the reservoir at regular intervals. Fill the
reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator
antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to
flush out the residual water.The fluid reservoir will hold nearly 1 gal (4 l) of washer
fluid when the message “Low Washer Fluid” appears in
the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC).
Washer Fluid Reservoir
134 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS
1. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank when
the ignition switch is in the ON position.
2. Trip Odometer Button
Press this button to change the display from odometer to
either of two trip odometer settings. The letter “A” or “B”
will appear when in the trip odometer mode. Push in and
hold the button for two seconds to reset the trip odometer
to 0 mi (km). The odometer must be in TRIP mode to
reset it.
3. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
4. Electronic Speed Control Indicator Light
This light will turn on when the electronic
speed control is ON. (See page 137 for more
information.)5. Tachometer
The red segments indicate the maximum permissible
engine revolutions per minute (RPM. x 1000) for each
gear range. Ease up on the accelerator before reaching the
red area.
6. Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical charg-
ing system. The light should turn on when the
ignition switch is first turned ON and remain on briefly
as a bulb check. If the light stays on or turns on while
driving, turn off some of the vehicle’s non-essential
electrical devices (i.e., radio) or slightly increase engine
speed (if at idle). If the light remains on, it means that the
charging system is experiencing a problem. See your
local authorized dealer to obtain service immediately.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 165
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7. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light will turn on briefly as a bulb check
when the ignition switch is turned ON. This
light will also turn on while the engine is
running if there is a problem with the Elec-
tronic Throttle Control system.
If the light comes on while the engine is running, safely
bring the vehicle to a complete stop as soon as possible,
place the shift lever in PARK, and cycle the ignition key. The
light should turn off. If the light remains lit with the engine
running, your vehicle will usually be drivable. However, see
your authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.
If the light is flashing when the engine is running,
immediate service is required. In this case, you may
experience reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle
or engine stall, and your vehicle may require towing.
Also, have the system checked by an authorized dealer if
the light does not come on during starting.8. 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.
CAUTION!
Driving with a hot cooling system could damage
your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads 240°F
(116°C) or greater, pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle
the vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until
the pointer drops back into the normal range 200–
230°F (93–110°C). If the pointer remains at 240°F
(116°C) or greater and you hear a chime, turn the
engine OFF immediately and call for service.
166 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or
others could be badly burned by steam or boiling
coolant. You may want to call a service center if your
vehicle overheats. If you decide to look under the
hood yourself, refer to Section 7 and follow the
warnings under the Cooling System Pressure Cap
paragraph.
9. Turn Signal Indicators
The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal
when the turn signal lever is operated. (See page 129
for more information.)
NOTE:A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is
driven more than 1 mi (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.NOTE:Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if
either indicator flashes at a rapid rate.
10. Airbag Warning Light
This light will turn on for six to eight seconds
as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned ON. If the light is either not on during
starting, or stays on, or turns on while driving,
then have the system inspected at your authorized dealer
as soon as possible. (See page 60 for more information.)
11. Engine Temperature Warning Light
This light will turn on and a single chime will
sound to warn of an overheated engine condition.
When this light turns on, the engine temperature
is critically hot. The vehicle should be turned OFF
immediately and serviced as soon as possible. (See page
332 for more information.)
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 167
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12. Electronic Stability Program (ESP)/Traction
Control System (TCS) Indicator Light
If this indicator light flashes during accelera-
tion, ease up on the accelerator and apply as
little throttle as possible. Adapt your speed and
driving to the prevailing road conditions, and
do not switch off the ESP. (See page 284 for more
information.)
13. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Brake Assist
System (BAS) Malfunction Indicator Light
The yellow ESP/BAS malfunction indicator light
will turn on when the key in the ignition switch is
turned to the ON position. The light should go
out with the engine running. If the light remains
on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been
driven several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater than 30
mph (48 km/h), see your authorized dealer as soon as
possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected. (See
page 291 for more information.)
14. Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light shows low engine oil pressure. The light
should turn on momentarily when the engine is
started. If the light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle, and shut OFF the engine as soon as possible. A
single chime will sound when this light turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected.
This light does not show how much oil is in the engine.
The engine oil level must be checked using the procedure
shown in Section 7. (See page 353 for more information.)
15. High Beam Light
This light will turn on when the high beam
headlights are ON. Push the multifunction lever
away from the steering wheel to switch the headlights to
high beam. (See page 129 for more information.)
168 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL