2009 DODGE DURANGO bulb

is out. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the
key is in the ON position and the brake pedal is
depressed.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry KeyImmobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized vehicle operation 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 ignition keys that have an embedded
electronic chip (transponder) to prevent unauthorized
vehicle operation. Therefore, only keys that are pro-
grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate
the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two
seconds if someone uses an invalid key to try to start the
engine.NOTE:A key that has not been programmed is also
considered an invalid key, even if it is cut to fit the
ignition switch lock cylinder for that vehicle.
During normal operation, after turning on the ignition
switch, the Vehicle Security 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 Vehicle Security Light
begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that
someone used an invalid key to try to start the engine.
Either of these conditions will result in the engine being
shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal
vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 sec-
onds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics.
Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as
possible.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15
2

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.
Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a
collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after
a collision if they have been damaged (i.e., 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 six to eight
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned ON. If the light is not lit during starting, see your
authorized dealer. If the light stays on, flickers, or comes
on while driving, have the system checked by an autho-
rized dealer.
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
inoperable.
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.
74 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

If a defective bulb or wiring circuit is detected for the
turn signal system, the arrow indicators will flash at a
faster rate.
You can signal a lane change by moving the multifunc-
tion lever partially up or down.
NOTE:If a turn signal has been left on for at least 1 mile
(1 km), a continuous chime will sound.
Turn Signal Auto-Mode
Tap the multifunction lever once and the turn signal (left
or right) will flash three times, and automatically turn off.
Flash-To-Pass
You can signal another vehicle with your headlights by
partially pulling the multifunction lever toward the steer-
ing wheel. This will momentarily turn on the high beams
until the multifunction lever is released.
High Beam/Low Beam Select Switch
Pull the multifunction lever fully toward the steering
wheel to switch the headlights from high or low beam.
High Beam/Low Beam
150 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION
1. Fuel Gauge
The fuel gauge shows level of fuel in the tank when
ignition switch is in the ON position.
2. 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 temperature
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!
Do not leave your vehicle unattended with the en-
gine running as you would not be able to react to the
temperature indicator if the engine overheats.The gauge pointer will remain near its last reading when
the engine is turned off. It will return to a true reading
when the engine is restarted.
3. Turn Signal Indicators
When a turn signal is activated, a right-pointing or
left-pointing arrow lights up and flashes to indicate
the direction of the turn. These indicators also indicate
proper operation of the front and rear turn signal lights.
If either indicator flashes at a faster rate than normal,
check for a defective bulb. If either indicator fails to light
up when the lever is moved, check for a defective fuse or
turn signal LED. A single chime is activated when the
left/right turn signal is left on with the engine RPM
vehicle speed greater than 15 mph (24 km/h) for more
than one mile.
4. Low Fuel Warning Light
This indicator lights when the fuel gauge reads
1/16 of a tank or less.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 203
4

8. Speedometer
The speedometer shows the speed of the vehicle.
9. Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical charg-
ing system. The light should come on when the
ignition switch is first turned ON and remain on briefly
as a bulb check. If the light stays on or comes on while
driving, turn off some of the vehicle’s non-essential
electrical devices or increase engine speed (if at idle). If
the charging system light remains on, it means that the
vehicle is experiencing a problem with the charging
system. Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. See an autho-
rized dealer.
10. Vehicle Security Light
This light will flash rapidly for approximately
15 seconds when the vehicle security alarm is
arming. The light will flash at a slower speedcontinuously after the alarm is set. The security light will
also come on for about three seconds when the ignition is
first turned on.
11. Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS) which is described elsewhere in this
manual. This light will come on when the
ignition key is turned to the ON position and
may stay on for approximately three seconds. If this light
remains on or comes on during driving, it indicates that
the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not func-
tioning and that service is required. See an authorized
dealer immediately. With the ABS malfunctioning, the
Brake Assist System (BAS) and Electronic Stability Pro-
gram (ESP) are also switched off. Both malfunction
indicator lights illuminate with the engine running. If the
charging voltage falls below 10 volts, the malfunction
indicator light illuminates and the ABS is switched off.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 205
4

theESP/TCS Indicator Lightbegins to flash during
acceleration, ease up on the accelerator and apply as little
throttle as possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and
driving to the prevailing road conditions. The “ESP/TCS
Indicator Light” becomes illuminated when the ESP-Off
button has been pressed or ESP is only partially available
caused by lack of engine management or brake thermal
model.
19. Transmission Temperature Indicator
This light indicates that there is excessive trans-
mission fluid temperature that might occur
with severe usage, such as trailer towing. If this
light comes on, stop the vehicle and run the
engine at idle or faster, with the transmission in NEU-
TRAL until the light goes off.20. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
This light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) 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
shift lever is placed in the PARK position. The light
should turn off. If the light remains lit with the engine
running your vehicle will usually be drivable, however,
see an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible. If
the light is flashing when the engine is running, imme-
diate service is required 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 autho-
rized dealer.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 209
4

NOTE:The ESP control system will make buzzing or
clicking sounds when it is actively operating.
23. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of
an onboard diagnostic system which monitors
the emissions and engine control system. If the
vehicle is ready for emissions testing, the MIL will come
on when the ignition is first turned on and remain on, as
a bulb check, until the engine is started. If the vehicle is
not ready for emissions testing, the MIL will come on
when the ignition is first turned on and remain on for
15 seconds, then blink for 10 seconds, and remain on until
the vehicle is started. If the MIL does not come on during
starting, see an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
If the MIL comes on and remains on while driving, it
suggests a potential engine control problem and the need
for system service.Although your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see an authorized dealer for service as soon
as possible.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause
damage to the engine control system. It also could
affect fuel economy and driveability.
If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter
damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate
service is required. See an authorized dealer for
service immediately.
24. Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light
Each tire, including the spare (if provided),
should be checked monthly, when cold and
inflated to the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle
placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle
212 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

▫Adding Washer Fluid................. 407
▫Exhaust System..................... 408
▫Cooling System..................... 410
▫Brake System....................... 416
▫Automatic Transmission............... 417
▫Transfer Case....................... 419
▫Axles............................. 420
▫Appearance Care And Protection From
Corrosion.......................... 420
Fuses.............................. 426
▫Interior Fuses....................... 426
▫Underhood Fuses (Power Distribution
Center)........................... 429
▫Underhood Fuses
(Integrated Power Module)............. 432Vehicle Storage....................... 434
Replacement Light Bulbs................ 434
Bulb Replacement..................... 435
▫Headlights/Parking/Turn Signal......... 435
▫Rear Side Marker, Tail Lights, Turn Signals
And Backup Lights — Replacement....... 437
▫License Lights...................... 440
▫Center High-Mounted Stoplight.......... 441
▫Fog Lights......................... 442
Fluids And Capacities.................. 443
Fluids, Lubricants And Genuine Parts....... 444
▫Engine............................ 444
▫Chassis........................... 445
394 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE