2023 JEEP CHEROKEE check engine light

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL75
(Continued)
Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light
This light will turn on when the Cruise Control
has been turned on, but not set Úpage 90.
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
Úpage 126.
EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND
MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an
inspection of your vehicle's emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection and
Maintenance (I/M), this check verifies the
Malfunction Indicator Light is functioning and is
not on when the engine is running, and that the
OBD II system is ready for testing.
The OBD ll system may not be ready if your vehicle was
recently serviced, recently had a depleted battery or a
battery replacement. If the OBD ll system should be
determined not ready for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail
the test.
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 accident involving serious injury or
death.
 Access, or allow others to access, information
stored in your vehicle systems, including
personal information.
WARNING!
3

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76GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test, which you
can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your
vehicle's OBD II system is ready, you must do the following:

1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do
not crank or start the engine.

NOTE:If you crank or start the engine, you will have to start this
test over.
2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, you will see the Malfunction Indicator Light
symbol come on as part of a normal bulb check. 3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will
happen:
 The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds and then
return to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF
the ignition or start the engine. This means that
your vehicle's OBD II system is not ready and you
should not proceed to the I/M station.
 The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully illu -
minated until you place the ignition in the off posi -
tion or start the engine. This means that your
vehicle's OBD II system is ready and you can
proceed to the I/M station. If your OBD II system is
not ready, you should see an
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle
as you normally would in order for your OBD II system to
update. A recheck with the previously mentioned test
routine may then indicate that the system is now ready.

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STARTING AND OPERATING89
NOTE:
Even if the power steering assistance is no longer oper -
ational, it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Under
these conditions there will be a substantial increase in
steering effort, especially at low speeds and during
parking maneuvers.
 If the condition persists, see an authorized dealer for
service.
STOP/START SYSTEM
The Stop/Start system was designed to reduce fuel
consumption. The system will stop the engine
automatically during a vehicle stop if the required
conditions are met. Releasing the brake pedal or pressing
the accelerator pedal will automatically restart the engine.
This vehicle has been upgraded with a heavy-duty battery,
starter, as well as other engine parts, to handle the
additional engine starts.
AUTOSTOP MODE
The Stop/Start feature is enabled after every normal
customer engine start. At that time, the system will go into
STOP/START READY.
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must Occur:
The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
“STOP/START READY” message will be displayed in the
instrument cluster display within the Stop/Start
section
Úpage 63.
 The vehicle must be completely stopped.
 The gear selector must be in a forward gear and the
brake pedal pressed. The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position, and the Stop/Start indicator light will
illuminate indicating you are in Autostop. Customer
settings will be maintained upon return to an
engine-running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
Detailed information about the operation of the Stop/Start
system may be viewed in the instrument cluster display
Stop/Start Screen. In the following situations, the engine
will not stop:
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled
 Driver’s door is not closed
 Battery temperature is too warm or cold
 Battery charge is low
 The vehicle is on a steep grade
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed
 HVAC is set to MAX A/C
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature
 The transmission is not in a forward or reverse gear
 Hood is open
 Brake pedal is not pressed with sufficient pressure with
vehicle in DRIVE (D) position
 Accelerator pedal input 
Engine temperature is too high
 5 mph (8 km/h) threshold has not been achieved from
previous Autostop
 Steering angle is beyond threshold
It may be possible for the vehicle to be driven several
times without the Stop/Start system going into a STOP/
START READY state under more extreme conditions of the
items listed previously.TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in a forward gear, the engine will start when the
brake pedal is released or the accelerator pedal is
pressed. The transmission will automatically re-engage
upon engine restart.
Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode:
 The transmission gear selector is moved out of DRIVE,
except in the PARK position
 To maintain cabin temperature comfort
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode
 HVAC system temperature or fan speed is manually
adjusted
 Battery voltage drops too low
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed
 A Stop/Start system error occurs
 Steering wheel is turned beyond threshold
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90STARTING AND OPERATING
Conditions That Force An Application Of The Electric Park
Brake While In Autostop Mode:
 The driver’s door is open and brake pedal released
 The driver’s door is open and the driver’s seat belt is
unbuckled
 The engine hood has been opened
 A Stop/Start system error occurs
If the Electric Park Brake (EPB) is applied with the engine
off, the engine may require a manual restart and the EPB
may require a manual release (press brake pedal and
push EPB switch).
TO MANUALLY TURN OFF THE STOP/
S
TART SYSTEM

Stop/Start OFF Switch

Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located on the switch
bank). The light on the switch will illuminate. The “STOP/
START OFF” message will appear in the instrument cluster
display and the Autostop mode will be disabled
Úpage 63.
NOTE:The Stop/Start system will reset itself back to the ON
mode every time the ignition is turned OFF and back ON.
TO MANUALLY TURN ON THE STOP/
S
TART SYSTEM
Push the Stop/Start OFF switch (located on the switch
bank). The light on the switch will turn off.
SYSTEM MALFUNCTION
If there is a malfunction in the Stop/Start system, the
system will not shut down the engine. A “SERVICE STOP/
START SYSTEM” message and a yellow Stop/Start telltale
will appear in the instrument cluster display
Úpage 68.
If the “SERVICE STOP/START SYSTEM” message appears
in the instrument cluster display, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED
Your vehicle may be equipped with the Cruise Control
system, or the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system:
 Cruise Control will keep your vehicle at a constant
preset speed.
 Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) will adjust the vehicle
speed up to the preset speed to maintain a distance
with the vehicle ahead.
NOTE:
In vehicles equipped with ACC, if ACC is not enabled,
Fixed Speed Cruise Control will not detect vehicles
directly ahead of you. Always be aware of the feature
selected. 
Only one Cruise Control feature can operate at a time.
For example, if Fixed Speed Cruise Control is enabled,
Adaptive Cruise Control will be unavailable, and vice
versa.
CRUISE CONTROL
When engaged, the Cruise Control takes over accelerator
operations at speeds greater than 20 mph (32 km/h).
The Cruise Control buttons are located on the right side of
the steering wheel.

Cruise Control Buttons

1 — On/Off
2 — CANC/Cancel
3 — SET (+)/Accel
4 — RES/Resume
5 — SET (-)/Decel

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118STARTING AND OPERATING
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a compact
spare tire.
 Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing
while using a full size spare tire.
 Proper tire inflation pressures are essential to the safe
and satisfactory operation of your vehicle.
 Check the trailer tires for proper tire inflation pressures
before trailer use.
 Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire damage
before towing a trailer.
 Replacing tires with a higher load carrying capacity will
not increase the vehicle's GVWR and GAWR limits.
 Refer to Tires for further information
Úpage 235.
Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake system or
vacuum system of your vehicle with that of the trailer.
This could cause inadequate braking and possible
personal injury.
 An electronically actuated trailer brake controller is
required when towing a trailer with electronically actu -
ated brakes. When towing a trailer equipped with a
hydraulic surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
 Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers over
1,000 lb (453 kg) and required for trailers in excess of
2,000 lb (907 kg).
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the trailer size,
stop lights and turn signals on the trailer are required for
motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four- and seven-pin
wiring harness. Use a factory approved trailer harness and
connector.
NOTE:Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s wiring
harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to the vehicle
but you must mate the harness to a trailer connector.
Refer to the following illustrations.
NOTE:
Disconnect the trailer wiring connector from the vehicle
(or any other device plugged into vehicle’s electrical
connectors) before launching a boat into water.
 Be sure to reconnect once clear from water area.
CAUTION!
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles
(805 km) the new vehicle is driven. The engine, axle
or other parts could be damaged.
 Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km) that a
trailer is towed, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h)
and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps the
engine and other parts of the vehicle wear in at the
heavier loads.
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your vehicle's
hydraulic brake lines. It can overload your brake
system and cause it to fail. You might not have
brakes when you need them and could have an acci -
dent.
 Towing any trailer will increase your stopping
distance. When towing, you should allow for addi -
tional space between your vehicle and the vehicle in
front of you. Failure to do so could result in an acci -
dent.
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lb (453 kg)
loaded, it should have its own brakes and they should
be of adequate capacity. Failure to do this could lead to
accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake pedal
effort, and longer stopping distances.

23_KL_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 118

STARTING AND OPERATING123
Shifting Out Of N (NEUTRAL)
Use the following procedure to prepare your vehicle for
normal use.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop, leaving it
connected to the tow vehicle.

2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Turn the ignition to the ON/RUN position, but do not start the engine.
4. Press and hold the brake pedal.
5. Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
6. Using a ballpoint pen or similar object, push and hold the recessed power transfer unit N (NEUTRAL) button
(located by the selector switch) for one second.

Neutral Button

7. When the N (NEUTRAL) indicator light turns off, release the NEUTRAL (N) button.
8. After the N (NEUTRAL) button has been released, the power transfer unit will shift to the position indicated
by the selector switch.
NOTE:When shifting the power transfer unit out of N (NEUTRAL),
the engine should remain off to avoid gear clash.
9. Shift the transmission into PARK.
10. Release the brake pedal.
11. Disconnect vehicle from the tow vehicle.
12. Start the engine.
13. Press and hold the brake pedal.
14. Release the parking brake.
15. Shift the transmission into DRIVE, release the brake pedal, and check that the vehicle operates normally.
16. Re-enable the Auto Park Brake feature, if desired.
NOTE:
 Steps 1 through 5 are requirements that must be met
before pushing the N (NEUTRAL) button, and must
continue to be met until the shift has been completed.
If any of these requirements are not met before
pushing the N (NEUTRAL) button or are no longer met
during the shift, the N (NEUTRAL) indicator light will
flash continuously until all requirements are met or
until the N (NEUTRAL) button is released.
 The ignition must be in the ON/RUN position for a shift
to take place and for the position indicator lights to be
operable. If the ignition is not in the ON/RUN position,
the shift will not take place and no position indicator
lights will be on or flashing.
 A flashing N (NEUTRAL) position indicator light indi -
cates that shift requirements have not been met.
DRIVING TIPS
ON-ROAD DRIVING TIPS
Utility vehicles have higher ground clearance and a
narrower track to make them capable of performing in a
wide variety of off-road applications. Specific design
characteristics give them a higher center of gravity than
conventional passenger cars.
An advantage of the higher ground clearance is a better
view of the road, allowing you to anticipate problems.
Utility vehicles are not designed for cornering at the same
speeds as conventional passenger cars any more than
sports cars are designed to perform satisfactorily in
off-road conditions. Avoid sharp turns or abrupt
maneuvers. As with other vehicles of this type, failure to
operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control
or vehicle rollover.
OFF-ROAD DRIVING TIPS
When To Use 4WD LOW Range
When off-road driving, shift to 4WD LOW for additional
traction and control on slippery or difficult terrain,
ascending or descending steep hills, and to increase
low-speed pulling power (refer to “All Wheel Drive and
Four-Wheel Drive Operation” in this section for further
details). This range should be limited to extreme situations
such as deep snow, mud, or sand where additional low
speed pulling power is needed. Vehicle speeds in excess
of 25 mph (40 km/h) should be avoided when in 4WD LOW range.
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124STARTING AND OPERATING
Driving Through Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through water,
there are a number of precautions that must be
considered before entering the water:
Driving through water more than a few inches/
centimeters deep will require extra caution to ensure
safety and prevent damage to your vehicle. If you must
drive through water, try to determine the depth and the
bottom condition (and location of any obstacles) prior to
entering. Proceed with caution and maintain a steady
controlled speed less than 5 mph (8 km/h) in deep water
to minimize wave effects.
Flowing Water
If the water is swift flowing and rising (as in storm run-off)
avoid crossing until the water level recedes and/or the
flow rate is reduced. If you must cross flowing-water, avoid
depths in excess of 9 inches (22 cm). The flowing water
can erode the streambed causing your vehicle to sink into
deeper water. Determine exit point(s) that are
downstream of your entry point to allow for drifting. Standing Water
Avoid driving in standing water deeper than 16 inches
(40.5 cm), and reduce speed appropriately to minimize
wave effects. Maximum speed in 16 inches (40.5 cm) of
water is less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
(Trailhawk only): Avoid driving in standing water deeper
than 19 inches (48 cm), and reduce speed appropriately
to minimize wave effects. Maximum speed in 19 inches
(48 cm) of water is less than 5 mph (8 km/h).
Maintenance
After driving through deep water, inspect your vehicle
fluids and lubricants (engine, transmission, Power
Transfer Unit, and Rear Drive Module) to ensure they have
not been contaminated. Contaminated fluids and
lubricants (milky, foamy in appearance) should be
flushed/changed as soon as possible to prevent
component damage.
Driving In Snow, Mud And Sand
In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional
control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low
gear and shift the 4WD system to the appropriate terrain
mode, using 4WD LOW if necessary
Úpage 85. Only shift
into a lower gear to maintain forward motion. Over-revving
the engine can spin the wheels and traction will be lost.
Avoid abrupt downshifts on icy or slippery roads because
engine braking may cause skidding and loss of control.
Hill Climbing
NOTE:Before attempting to climb a hill, determine the conditions
at the crest and/or on the other side.
Before climbing a steep hill, shift the transmission to a
lower gear and shift the 4WD system to 4WD LOW. Use
FIRST gear and 4WD LOW for very steep hills.
NOTE:Brakes should be applied at increased slippage, but
before coming to a stop to avoid digging into the loose
surface and rendering the operator of the vehicle stuck/
immobile.
If you stall or begin to lose headway while climbing a steep
hill, allow your vehicle to come to a stop and immediately
apply the brakes. Once stopped, shift to REVERSE. Back
slowly down the hill allowing the compression braking of
the engine to help regulate your speed. If the brakes are
required to control vehicle speed, apply them lightly and
avoid locking or skidding the tires.
CAUTION!
When driving through water, do not exceed 5 mph
(8 km/h). Always check water depth before entering as
a precaution, and check all fluids afterward. Driving
through water may cause damage that may not be
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WARNING!
If the engine stalls or you lose headway or cannot make
it to the top of a steep hill or grade, never attempt to
turn around. To do so may result in tipping and rolling
the vehicle. Always back straight down a hill in
REVERSE gear carefully. Never back down a hill in
NEUTRAL using only the brake.

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SAFETY167
(Continued)
The ORC contains a backup power supply system that may
deploy the air bag system even if the battery loses power
or it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the
instrument panel for approximately four to eight seconds
for a self-check when the ignition switch is first in the ON/
RUN position. After the self-check, the Air Bag Warning
Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a malfunction in any
part of the system, it turns on the Air Bag Warning Light,
either momentarily or continuously. A single chime will
sound to alert you if the light comes on again after initial
startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will illuminate the
instrument panel Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunction is
detected that could affect the air bag system. The
diagnostics also record the nature of the malfunction.
While the air bag system is designed to be maintenance
free, if any of the following occurs, have an authorized
dealer service the air bag system immediately.

The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on during the
four to eight seconds when the ignition switch is first in
the ON/RUN position.
 The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after the four to
eight-second interval.
 The Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently or
remains on while driving.
NOTE:If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine related
gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint Controller
(ORC) may also be disabled. In this condition the air bags
may not be ready to inflate for your protection. Have an
authorized dealer service the air bag system immediately.
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light
If a fault with the Air Bag Warning Light is
detected, which could affect the Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS), the Redundant Air Bag
Warning Light will illuminate on the instrument
panel. The Redundant Air Bag Warning Light will stay on
until the fault is cleared. In addition, a single chime will
sound to alert you that the Redundant Air Bag Warning
Light has come on and a fault has been detected. If the
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently
or remains on while driving have an authorized dealer
service the vehicle immediately
Úpage 68.
Front Air Bags
This vehicle has front air bags and lap/shoulder belts for
both the driver and front passenger. The front air bags are
a supplement to the seat belt restraint systems. The driver
front air bag is mounted in the center of the steering
wheel. The passenger front air bag is mounted in the
instrument panel, above the glove compartment. The
words “SRS AIRBAG” or “AIRBAG” are embossed on the air
bag covers.

Front Air Bag/Knee Impact Bolster Locations

WARNING!
Ignoring the Air Bag Warning Light in your instrument
panel could mean you won’t have the air bag system to
protect you in a collision. If the light does not come on
as a bulb check when the ignition is first turned on,
stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as
you drive, have an authorized dealer service the air bag
system immediately.
1 — Driver Front Air Bag
2 — Passenger Front Air Bag
3 — Supplemental Driver Knee Air Bag/Driver Knee
Impact Bolster
4 — Supplemental Passenger Knee Air Bag/Passenger
Knee Impact Bolster
WARNING!
 Being too close to the steering wheel or instrument
panel during front air bag deployment could cause
serious injury, including death. Air bags need room to
inflate. Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to
reach the steering wheel or instrument panel.
 Never place a rear-facing child restraint in front of an
air bag. A deploying passenger front air bag can
cause death or serious injury to a child 12 years or
younger, including a child in a rear-facing child
restraint.
6

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