2021 RAM CHASSIS CAB warning light

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL109
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is
corrected. This light does not indicate how
much oil is in the engine. The engine oil level
must be checked under the hood.
Oil Temperature Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate the engine oil temperature is
high. If the light turns on while driving,
stop the vehicle and shut off the
engine as soon as possible. Wait for oil
temperature to return to normal levels.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning
Light
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate a problem with the ETC
system. If a problem is detected while
the vehicle is running, the light will
either stay on or flash depending on the nature
of the problem. Cycle the ignition when the
vehicle is safely and completely stopped and
the transmission is placed in the PARK position.
The light should turn off. If the light remains
on with the vehicle running, your vehicle will
usually be drivable; however, see an authorized
dealer for service as soon as possible. NOTE:
This light may turn on if the accelerator and
brake pedals are pressed at the same time.
If the light continues to flash when the vehicle is
running, immediate 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 placed in the ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN position 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.Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when
there's a fault with the EPS system
Ú
page 163.
Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when
the Trailer Brake has been
disconnected Ú page 200.
Transmission Temperature Warning
Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to
warn of a high transmission fluid
temperature. This may occur with
strenuous usage such as trailer
towing. If this light turns on, stop the vehicle and
run the engine at idle or slightly faster, with the
transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL, until the
light turns off. Once the light turns off, you may
continue to drive normally.
WARNING!
Continued operation with reduced assist
could pose a safety risk to yourself and
others. Service should be obtained as soon
as possible.
WARNING!
If you continue operating the vehicle when
the Transmission Temperature Warning Light
is illuminated you could cause the fluid to boil
over, come in contact with hot engine or
exhaust components and cause a fire.
3

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 109

110GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Door Open Warning Light
This indicator will illuminate when a
door is ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is moving there will also be a single
chime.
YELLOW WARNING LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Fault
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate a fault in the ACC system.
Contact a local authorized dealer for
service Ú page 166.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator
Warning Light (MIL)
The Engine Check/Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an
Onboard Diagnostic System called
OBD II that monitors engine and
automatic transmission control systems. This
warning light will illuminate when the ignition
is in the ON/RUN position before engine start.
If the bulb does not come on when turning the
ignition switch 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 by an authorized dealer as soon as
possible if this occurs.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Warning Light illuminated will
eventually cause severe transmission
damage or transmission failure.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as
referenced above, can reach higher
temperatures than in normal operating
conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive
slowly or park over flammable substances
such as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc.
This could result in death or serious injury to
the driver, occupants or others.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction
Indicator Light (MIL) on could cause damage
to the vehicle 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.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 110

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL111
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active
Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will indicate when
the ESC system is Active. The ESC
Indicator Light in the instrument
cluster will come on when the ignition
is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN
position, and when ESC is activated. It should go
out with the engine running. If the ESC Indicator
Light comes on continuously with the engine
running, a malfunction has been detected in
the ESC system. If this warning 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 an
authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the
problem diagnosed and corrected.

The ESC OFF Indicator Light and the ESC Indi -
cator Light come on momentarily each time
the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN position.
The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking
sounds when it is active. This is normal; the
sounds will stop when ESC becomes inactive.
This light will come on when the vehicle is in
an ESC event.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF
Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light indicates the ESC is
off.
Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
ACC/ON/RUN, the ESC system will be on, even
if it was turned off previously.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light — If
Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when
the windshield washer fluid is low
Ú page 364.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level reaches
approximately 3.2 gal (12 L) this light
will turn on, and remain on until fuel is
added.
A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel
Warning.
Low Coolant Level Warning Light
This telltale will turn on to indicate
the vehicle coolant level is low
Ú page 367.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light — If
Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when
the fuel filler cap is loose. Properly
close the filler cap to disengage the
light. If the light does not turn off,
please see an authorized dealer.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light — If Equipped
The warning light switches on and a
message is displayed to indicate that
the tire pressure is lower than the
recommended value and/or that slow
pressure loss is occurring. In these cases,
optimal tire duration and fuel consumption may
not be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition
mentioned above, the display will show the
indications corresponding to each tire.
3

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 111

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL113
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Light

This warning light monitors the ABS.
The light will turn on when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN
position and may stay on for as long as
four seconds.

If the ABS light remains on or turns on while
driving, then the Anti-Lock portion of the brake
system is not functioning and service is required
as soon as possible. However, the conventional
brake system will continue to operate normally,
assuming the Brake Warning Light is not also on.

If the ABS light does not turn on when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position,
have the brake system inspected by an authorized
dealer.

Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to
indicate a fault in the Forward Collision
Warning System. Contact an authorized
dealer for service
Ú
page 281.

Service 4WD Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to
signal a fault with the 4WD system.
If the light stays on or comes on
during driving, it means that the 4WD
system is not functioning properly and that
service is required. We recommend you drive to
the nearest service center and have the vehicle
serviced immediately.
Cruise Control Fault Warning Light

This warning light will illuminate to
indicate the Cruise Control System is
not functioning properly and service is
required. Contact an authorized dealer.

YELLOW INDICATOR LIGHTS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Off
Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light illuminates to
indicate that Forward Collision
Warning is off Ú page 281.
TOW/HAUL Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate
when TOW/HAUL mode is selected.
Trailer Merge Assist Indicator Light — If
Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate to
indicate when Trailer Merge Assist
has been activated.
Cargo Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate
when the cargo light is activated by
pushing the cargo light button on the
headlight switch.
Snowplow Mode Indicator Light — If
Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate
when Snowplow Mode has been
activated Úpage 212.
3

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 113

116GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
BLUE INDICATOR LIGHTS
High Beam Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate
to indicate that the high beam
headlights are on. With the low beams
activated, push the multifunction
lever forward (toward the front of the vehicle) to
turn on the high beams. Pull the multifunction
lever rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to
turn off the high beams. If the high beams are
off, pull the lever toward you for a temporary
high beam on, "flash to pass" scenario.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II
Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated
Onboard Diagnostic system called OBD II.
This system monitors the performance of the
emissions, engine, and transmission control
systems. When these systems are operating
properly, your vehicle will provide excellent
performance and fuel economy, as well as
engine emissions well within current
government regulations. If any of these systems require service, the OBD
II system will turn on the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL). It will also store diagnostic codes
and other information to assist your service
technician in making repairs. Although your
vehicle will usually be drivable and not need
towing, see an authorized dealer for service as
soon as possible.
ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM
(OBD II) C
YBERSECURITY
Your vehicle is required to have an OBD II and a
connection port to allow access to information
related to the performance of your emissions
controls. Authorized service technicians may
need to access this information to assist with
the diagnosis and service of your vehicle and
emissions system Ú page 220.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could
cause further damage to the emission
control system. It could also affect fuel
economy and driveability. The vehicle must
be serviced before any emissions tests can
be performed.
If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is
running, severe catalytic converter damage
and power loss will soon occur. Immediate
service is required.
WARNING!
ONLY an authorized service technician
should connect equipment to the OBD II
connection port in order to read the VIN,
diagnose, or service your vehicle.
If unauthorized equipment is connected to
the OBD II connection port, such as a
driver-behavior tracking device, it may:
Be possible that vehicle systems,
including safety related systems, could
be impaired or a loss of vehicle control
could occur that may result in an acci -
dent involving serious injury or death.
Access, or allow others to access, infor -
mation stored in your vehicle systems,
including personal information.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 116

STARTING AND OPERATING125
NOTE:
Engine idle speed will automatically increase
to 1,000 RPM and engage the Variable
Geometry Turbocharger at low coolant
temperatures to improve engine warm-up.
The engine will not automatically crank after
the engine "Wait to Start" telltale goes off if a
door or the hood is ajar.

If the engine stalls, or if the ignition switch is
left ON for more than two minutes after the
“Wait to Start” telltale goes out, reset the
intake air heater by turning the ignition switch
to the OFF position for at least 5 seconds and
then back ON. Repeat steps 1 through 6 of
“Keyless Enter-N-Go Starting Procedure –
Engine Manifold Air Temperature 0°F To 66°F
(–18°C to 19°C).”

EXTREME COLD WEATHER
The Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is equipped
with several features designed to assist cold
weather starting and operation:

The engine block heater is a resistance heater
installed in the water jacket of the engine just
above and behind the oil filter. It requires a 110–115 Volt AC electrical outlet
with a grounded, three-wire extension cord.

NOTE:
The engine block heater cord is a factory
installed option. If your vehicle is not equipped,
heater cords are available from an authorized
Mopar dealer.
A 12 Volt heater built into the fuel filter hous -
ings aid in preventing fuel gelling. It is
controlled by a built-in thermostat.
An intake air heater system both improves
engine starting and reduces the amount of
white smoke generated by a warming engine.
NORMAL STARTING PROCEDURE —
E
NGINE MANIFOLD AIR TEMPERATURE
A
BOVE 66°F (19°C)
Observe the instrument panel cluster lights
when starting the engine.

1. Always apply the parking brake.

2. Shift into PARK for an automatic
transmission. 3. Place the ignition switch in the ON position
and watch the instrument panel cluster
lights.
4. Place the ignition switch in the START position and crank the engine. Do not press
the accelerator during starting.
5. Check that the oil pressure warning light has turned off.
6. Release the parking brake.
CAUTION!
If the “Water in Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START the engine before you
drain the water from the fuel filters to avoid
engine damage Ú page 375.
CAUTION!

Do not crank engine for more than 25 seconds
at a time or starter motor damage may result.
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and
wait at least two minutes for the starter to cool
before repeating start procedure.

4

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 125

126STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING PROCEDURE — ENGINE
M
ANIFOLD AIR TEMPERATURE 0°F TO
66°F (–18°C
TO 19°C)
NOTE:
The temperature displayed in the instrument
cluster does not necessarily reflect the engine
manifold air temperature Ú page 90. When
engine temperatures fall below 66°F (19°C)
the “Wait To Start” telltale will remain on indi -
cating the intake air heater system is active.
Follow the steps in the “Normal Starting”
procedure except:

1. The “Wait to Start” telltale will remain on for a period of time that varies depending
on the engine temperature.

2. While the “Wait to Start” telltale is on, the instrument cluster will additionally display a
gauge or bar whose initial length represents
the full “Wait to Start” time period. Its length
will decrease until it disappears when the
“Wait to Start” time has elapsed. 3. After the “Wait to Start” telltale goes off,
place the ignition switch in the START
position. Do not press the accelerator
during starting.
4. After engine start-up, check that the oil pressure warning light has turned off.
5. Release the parking brake and drive. NOTE:
Engine idle speed will automatically increase
to 1,000 RPM and engage the Variable
Geometry Turbocharger at low coolant
temperatures to improve engine warm-up.

Automatic equipped vehicles with optional
Keyless Enter-N-Go – If the ENGINE START/
STOP button is pushed once while in PARK
with the ignition off and driver’s foot on the
brake pedal, the vehicle will automatically
crank and start after the “Wait to Start” time
has elapsed. If it is desired to abort the start
process before it completes, the driver’s foot
should be fully removed from the brake pedal
prior to pushing the start button again in order
for the ignition to move directly to off.
If the engine stalls, or if the ignition switch is
left ON for more than two minutes after the
“Wait To Start” telltale goes out, reset the
intake air heater by turning the ignition switch
to the OFF position for at least five seconds
and then back ON. Repeat steps 1 through 5 of
“Starting Procedure – Engine Manifold Air
Temperature 0°F To 66°F (–18°C to 19°C).”

CAUTION!
If the “Water in Fuel Indicator Light” remains
on, DO NOT START the engine before you
drain the water from the fuel filters to avoid
engine damage Ú
page 375.
CAUTION!

Do not crank engine for more than 25 seconds
at a time or starter motor damage may result.
Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and
wait at least two minutes for the starter to cool
before repeating start procedure.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 126

128STARTING AND OPERATING
STARTING FLUIDS
The engine is equipped with an automatic
electric air preheating system. If the
instructions in this manual are followed,
the engine should start in all conditions.
NORMAL OPERATION — DIESEL ENGINE
Observe the following when the engine is
operating.
All message center lights are off.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is off.
Engine oil pressure is above 10 psi (69 kPa)
at idle.
Voltmeter operation:

The voltmeter may show a gauge fluctuation
at various engine temperatures. This cycling
operation is caused by the post-heat cycle of the
intake manifold heater system. The number of
cycles and the length of the cycling operation
is controlled by the engine control module.
Post-heat operation can run for several minutes,
and then the electrical system and voltmeter
needle will stabilize.

The cycling action will cause temporary
dimming of the headlamps, interior lamps, and
also a noticeable reduction in blower motor
speed.
WARNING!
Starting fluids or flammable liquids must
never be used in the Cummins diesel engine
(see Warning label). Never pour diesel fuel,
flammable liquid, starting fluids (ether) into
the air cleaner canister, air intake piping, or
turbocharger inlet in an attempt to start the
vehicle. This could result in a flash fire and
explosion causing serious personal injury and
engine damage.
WARNING!
Do not leave children or animals inside
parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior
heat build-up may cause serious injury or
death.
When leaving the vehicle, always remove
the key fob and lock your vehicle.

Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing
children to be in a vehicle unattended is
dangerous for a number of reasons. A child
or others could be seriously or fatally injured.
Children should be warned not to touch the
parking brake, brake pedal or the gear
selector. Do not leave the key fob in or near
the vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil -
dren), and do not leave the ignition of a
vehicle equipped with Keyless Enter-N-Go in
the ACC or ON/RUN mode. A child could
operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.

21_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 128