2020 JEEP PATRIOT check engine light

Yellow Telltale Indicator Lights
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Yellow Telltale Light What It Means
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)The Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic System called OBD II that monitors en-
gine and automatic transmission control systems. The light will illuminate when the ignition is in the ON position before engine
start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON/RUN, have the condition checked promptly.
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate the light after engine start.
The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several typical driving styles. In most situations, the vehicle will
drive normally and will not require towing.
When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert 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.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (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.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as ref-
erenced above, can reach higher tempera-
tures than in normal operating conditions.
This can cause a fire if you drive slowly or
(Continued)
WARNING!(Continued)
park over flammable substances such as dry
plants, wood, cardboard, etc. This could re-
sult in death or serious injury to the driver,
occupants or others.
129

Blower Control
Rotate this control to
regulate the amount of
air forced through the
ventilation system in
any mode. The blower
speed increases as you
move the control to the
right from the “O” (OFF)
position. There are
seven blower speeds.
Temperature Control
Rotate this control to
regulate the tempera-
ture of the air inside the
passenger compart-
ment. Rotating the dial
left into the blue area of
the scale indicates
cooler temperatures,
while rotating right into
the red area indicates warmer temperatures.NOTE:
If your air conditioning performance seems
lower than expected, check the front of the
A/C condenser located in front of the radia-
tor for an accumulation of dirt or insects.
Clean with a gentle water spray from behind
the radiator and through the condenser.
Fabric front fascia protectors may reduce
airflow to the condenser, reducing air con-
ditioning performance.
Air Conditioning Control
Push this button to en-
gage the Air Condition-
ing. A light will illuminate
when the Air Condition-
ing system is engaged.
Rotating the dial left into
the blue area of the
scale indicates cooler
temperatures, while ro-
tating right into the red
area indicates warmer temperatures.NOTE:
The air conditioning compressor will not
engage until the engine has been running
for about 10 seconds.
•MAX A/C
For maximum cooling use the A/C and recircu-
lation buttons at the same time.
•ECONOMY MODE
If economy mode is desired, push the A/C
button to turn OFF the indicator light and the
A/C compressor. Then, select Panel, Bi-Level or
Floor mode and move the temperature control
to the desired temperature.
Mode Control (Air Direction)
Rotate this control to
choose from several
patterns of air distribu-
tion. You can select ei-
ther a primary mode as
identified by the sym-
bols on the control, or a
blend of two of these
151

Loose Fuel Filler Cap MessageAfter fuel is added, the vehicle diagnostic sys-
tem can determine if the fuel filler cap is possi-
bly loose or improperly installed. A “gASCAP”
message will be displayed in the instrument
cluster. Tighten the gas cap until a “clicking”
sound is heard. This is an indication that the gas
cap is properly tightened. Push the trip odom-
eter RESET button to turn off the message. If
the problem persists, the message will appear
the next time the vehicle is started. This might
indicate a damaged cap. If the problem is
detected twice in a row, the system will turn on
the MIL. Resolving the problem will turn the MIL
light off.
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Use of genuine MOPAR parts for normal/
scheduled maintenance and repairs is highly
recommended to ensure the designed perfor-
mance. Damage or failures caused by the use
of non-MOPAR parts for maintenance and re-
pairs will not be covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
The pages that follow contain therequired
maintenance services determined by the engi-
neers who designed your vehicle.
Besides those maintenance items specified in
the fixed “Maintenance Schedule”, there are
other components which may require servicing
or replacement in the future.
CAUTION!
•Failure to properly maintain your vehicle or
perform repairs and service when neces-
sary could result in more costly repairs,
damage to other components or negatively
impact vehicle performance. Immediately
have potential malfunctions examined by
an authorized dealer or qualified repair
center.
(Continued)
CAUTION!(Continued)
•Your vehicle has been built with improved
fluids that protect the performance and
durability of your vehicle and also allow
extended maintenance intervals. Do not
use chemical flushes in these components
as the chemicals can damage your engine,
transmission, or air conditioning. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty. If a flush is needed
because of component malfunction, use
only the specified fluid for the flushing
procedure.
Engine Oil
Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, the engine
oil must be maintained at the correct level.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, such as
every fuel stop.
The best time to check the engine oil level is
about five minutes after a fully warmed engine is
shut off. Do not check oil level before starting
256

•If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) addi-
tions are required, the cooling system should
be pressure tested for leaks.
•Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concen-
tration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant
(conforming to MS.90032) and distilled water
for proper corrosion protection of your engine
which contains aluminum components.
•Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle
overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
•Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your
vehicle is equipped with air conditioning,
keep the front of the condenser clean.
•Do not change the thermostat for Summer or
Winter operation. If replacement is ever nec-
essary, install ONLY the correct type thermo-
stat. Other designs may result in unsatisfac-
tory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake SystemIn order to assure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be in-spected periodically. Refer to the “Maintenance
Schedule” for the proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly a collision. Driving with your
foot resting or riding on the brake pedal can
result in abnormally high brake tempera-
tures, excessive lining wear, and possible
brake damage. You would not have your full
braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be
checked when performing under hood services,
or immediately if the brake system warning light
is on.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder
area before removing the cap. If necessary, add
fluid to bring the fluid level up to the require-
ments described on the brake fluid reservoir.
Fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake
pads wear. The brake fluid level should be
checked when the pads are replaced. However,low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a
checkup may be needed.
NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with a manual
transmission, the brake fluid reservoir sup-
plies fluid to both the brake system and the
clutch release system. The two systems are
separated in the reservoir, and a leak in one
system will not affect the other system. The
manual transmission clutch release system
should not require fluid replacement during
the life of the vehicle. If the brake fluid
reservoir is low and the brake system does
not indicate any leaks or other problems, it
may be a result of a leak in the hydraulic
clutch release system. See your local autho-
rized dealer for service.
Use only manufacturer’s recommended brake
fluid. Refer to “Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle” for further
information.
266

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Maintenance Schedule — Gasoline
Engine
The Scheduled Maintenance services listed in
this manual must be done at the times or
mileages specified to protect your vehicle war-
ranty and ensure the best vehicle performance
and reliability. More frequent maintenance may
be needed for vehicles in severe operating
conditions, such as dusty areas and very short
trip driving. Inspection and service should also
be done anytime a malfunction is suspected.
The oil change indicator system will remind you
that it is time to take your vehicle in for sched-
uled maintenance.
On Non-EVIC equipped vehicles, “CHANgE
OIL” will flash in the instrument cluster odom-
eter and a single chime will sound, indicating
that an oil change is necessary.
The oil change indicator message will illuminate
approximately 7,000 miles (11,200 km) after the
most recent oil change was performed. Have
your vehicle serviced as soon as possible,
within 500 miles (800 km). However, an earlieroil change at 4,500 miles (7,500 km) may be
required if the vehicle is operated under “Se-
vere Duty Conditions” later in this section.
NOTE:
•The oil change indicator message will not
monitor the time since the last oil change.
Change your vehicle’s oil if it has been 12
months since your last oil change even if
the oil change indicator message is NOT
illuminated.
•Change your engine oil more often if you
drive your vehicle off-road for an ex-
tended period of time.
•Under no circumstances should oil
change intervals exceed 7,500 miles
(12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever
comes first.
Your dealer will reset the oil change indicator
message after completing the scheduled oil
change. If this scheduled oil change is per-
formed by someone other than your dealer, the
message can be reset by referring to the steps
described under “Instrument ClusterDescription/Odometer/Trip Odometer” in “Un-
derstanding Your Instrument Panel” for further
information.
Once A Month Or Before A Long Trip
•Check the engine oil level about five minutes
after a fully warmed engine is shut off.
Checking the oil level while the vehicle is on
level ground will improve the accuracy of the
oil level reading. Add oil only when the level
is at or below the ADD or MIN mark.
•Check the windshield washer solvent and
add if required.
•Check tire pressure and look for unusual
wear or damage. Rotate tires at the first sign
of irregular wear, even if it occurs before the
oil indicator system turns on.
•Inspect the battery and clean and tighten the
terminals as required.
•Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir,
automatic transmission, brake master cylin-
der and power steering and fill as needed.
•Check all lights and other electrical items for
correct operation.
284

Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze). . . .264
Adding Fuel..................212
Adding Washer Fluid.............261
Additives, Fuel................211
Adjust
Down....................89
Forward...................89
Rearward..................89
Up......................89
AirBag.....................38
Advance Front Air Bag..........38
Air Bag Operation.............39
Air Bag Warning Light...........44
Enhanced Accident Response......43
Event Data Recorder (EDR).......45
Front Air Bag................38
If A Deployment Occurs..........43
Knee Impact Bolsters...........40
Maintaining Your Air Bag System.....45
Side Air Bags...............40
Transporting Pets.............57
Air Bag Deployment..............38
Air Bag Light.............44, 59, 123
Air Bag Maintenance.............45
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner
Filter)....................258
Air Conditioner Maintenance........259Air Conditioning................150
Air Conditioning Controls..........150
Air Conditioning Filter.........158, 260
Air Conditioning Refrigerant......259, 260
Air Conditioning System.....150, 153, 259
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips. . . .157, 159
Air Pressure, Tires..............196
Alarm (Security Alarm)............125
Alarm System (Security Alarm)......14, 15
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle.......8
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).......187
Anti-Lock Warning Light...........133
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......263, 280
Capacities................280
Disposal..................265
Appearance Care...............271
Assist, Hill Start................189
Automatic Dimming Mirror..........65
Automatic Door Locks.............22
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) . . .153
Automatic Transaxle..............12
Fluid Level Check.........268, 269
Automatic Transmission . .168, 169, 267, 268
Autostick.................176
Fluid And Filter Changes........269
Fluid Type.............267, 268
Gear Ranges............170, 174Special Additives..........268, 269
Autostick.................176, 177
Battery..................127, 258
Charging System Light.........127
Keyless Transmitter Replacement
(RKE)...................18
Belts, Seat...................59
Body Mechanism Lubrication........261
Brake Assist System.............189
Brake Fluid..................282
Brake System..............186, 266
Master Cylinder.............266
Parking..................185
Warning Light..............124
Brake, Parking................185
Brake/Transmission Interlock........169
Brakes.....................186
Bulb Replacement..............279
Bulbs, Light................60, 279
Calibration, Compass............144
Camera, Rear.................104
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) . .280
Capacities, Fluid...............280
Caps, Filler
Fuel....................212
318

Oil (Engine)..........253, 254, 257
Power Steering.............184
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)......264
Car Washes..................271
Carbon Monoxide Warning..........58
Cargo Area Cover..............111
Cargo Area Features.............111
Cargo Compartment.............111
Light....................111
Luggage Carrier.............114
Cargo Light..................111
Cargo Load Floor...............112
Cargo Tie-Downs...............112
Cellular Phone.................67
Center High Mounted Stop Light......280
Chains, Tire..................202
Changing A Flat Tire.............228
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety......58
Checks, Safety.................58
Child Restraints
How To Stow An Unused ALR Seat Belt .56
Child Safety Locks...............23
Clean Air Gasoline..............211
Cleaning
Wheels..................272
Climate Control................150
Clutch.....................266Clutch Fluid..................266
Coin Holder..................111
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance......150
Compact Spare Tire.............199
Compass Calibration.............144
Compass Variance..............143
Connector
UCI ....................145
Universal Consumer Interface (UCI) . .145
Console....................111
Coolant (Antifreeze).............280
Coolant Pressure Cap (Radiator Cap) . . .264
Cooling System................263
Adding Coolant (Antifreeze)......264
Coolant Level...........263, 265
Disposal Of Used Coolant.......265
Drain, Flush, And Refill
.........263
Inspection................265
Points To Remember..........265
Pressure Cap..............264
Radiator Cap...............264
Selection Of Coolant (Antifreeze) . . .263
Corrosion Protection.............271
Cupholders..................111
Customer Assistance.............296
Data Recorder, Event.............45Defroster, Rear Window...........114
Defroster, Windshield.......59, 152, 156
Delay (Intermittent) Wipers.........100
Diagnostic System, Onboard........255
Dimmer Switch, Headlight...........98
Dipsticks
Power Steering..............184
Disposal
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)......265
Door Locks
Child-Protection Door Lock — Rear
Doors....................23
Door Locks.................21
KeyFob ..................21
Remote...................21
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE).......21
Door Locks, Automatic............22
Downshifting.................168
Driver’s Seat Back Tilt.............91
Driving.....................179
Off-Pavement..............179
Off-Road.................179
Electric Remote Mirrors............66
Electrical Power Outlets...........108
Electronic Brake Control System......187
Anti-Lock Brake System........187
319

Electronic Roll Mitigation........194
Traction Control System........191
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control) .102
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)......191
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light. .128
Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC)...................139
Emergency, In Case Of
Jacking..................228
Jump Starting..............241
Towing..................247
Engine..................253, 254
Air Cleaner................258
Break-In Recommendations.......57
Checking Oil Level............256
Coolant (Antifreeze)...........263
Cooling..................263
Exhaust Gas Caution...........58
Fuel Requirements............210
Jump Starting..............241
Oil ..................256, 280
Oil Change Interval...........257
Oil Filler Cap.........253, 254, 257
Oil Filter.................258
Oil Selection...............257
Oil Synthetic...............258
Overheating...............227Enhanced Accident Response Feature . . .43
Event Data Recorder.............45
Exhaust Gas Caution.............58
Exhaust System.............58, 262
Exterior Lights.................60
Filters
Air Cleaner................258
Air Conditioning..........158, 260
Engine Oil................258
Engine Oil Disposal...........258
Flash-To-Pass.................98
Flashers
Hazard Warning.............227
Turn Signal...........60, 136, 280
Flooded Engine Starting...........166
Fluid Capacities...............280
Fluid Leaks...................60
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transaxle........268, 269
Cooling System.............263
Power Steering.............184
Fluid, Brake..................282
Fluids, Lubricants And Genuine Parts . . .281
Fog Lights................97, 279
Folding Rear Seat...............94
Four Wheel Drive............134, 178Systems.................178
Four Wheel Drive Operation.........178
Four-Way Hazard Flasher..........227
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle...........243
Fuel......................210
Adding..................212
Additives.................211
Capacity.................280
Filler Cap (Gas Cap)..........212
Gasoline.................210
Gauge..................133
Octane Rating..............210
Requirements..............210
Tank Capacity..............280
Fueling....................212
Fuses.....................274
Gas Cap (Fuel Filler Cap).......212, 256
Gasoline (Fuel).............210, 280
Gasoline, Clean Air..............211
Gauges
Fuel....................133
Gear Ranges..............170, 174
Gear Select Lever Override.........244
Glass Cleaning................273
Gross Axle Weight Rating..........213
320