2023 RAM CHASSIS CAB check engine light

12 Yellow Warning Lights
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Fault Warning Light Úpage 105
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light Úpage 108
Cruise Control Fault Warning Light Úpage 108
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Warning Light (MIL) Úpage 105
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active Warning Light Úpage 106
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Warning Light Úpage 106
LaneSense Warning Light Úpage 106
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light Úpage 106
Low Fuel Warning Light
Úpage 107
Low Coolant Level Warning Light Úpage 107
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light Úpage 107
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light Úpage 108
Service LaneSense Warning Light Úpage 108
Service 4WD Warning Light Úpage 108
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light Úpage 107
Yellow Warning Lights

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 12

18GETTING TO KNOW YOUR VEHICLE
Duplication of key fobs may be performed at an
authorized dealer. This procedure consists of
programming a blank key fob to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key fob is one that has never
been programmed.
NOTE:
When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer system
serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an
authorized dealer.
Keys must be ordered to the correct key cut to
match the vehicle locks.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer system prevents
unauthorized 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 a key fob, keyless push button
ignition and a Radio Frequency (RF) receiver to
prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore,
only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle
can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The
system cannot reprogram a key fob obtained from
another vehicle.
After placing the ignition in the ON/RUN position,
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 light
begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates
that someone attempted to start the engine with
an invalid key fob. In the event that a valid key fob
is used to start the engine but there is an issue
with the vehicle electronics, the engine will start
and shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security 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
serviced as soon as possible by an authorized
dealer.
All of the key fobs provided with your new vehicle
have been programmed to the vehicle electronics
Ú
page 427.
NOTE:A key fob that has not been programmed is also
considered an invalid key.
IGNITION SWITCH
KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION
This feature allows the driver to operate the
ignition switch with the push of a button as long as
the Remote Keyless Entry key fob is in the
passenger compartment.
The Keyless Push Button Ignition has four
operating positions; three of which are labeled and
will illuminate when in position. The three positions
are OFF, ACC, and ON/RUN. The fourth position is
START. During START, RUN will illuminate.
NOTE:In case the ignition switch does not change with
the push of a button, the key fob may have a low or
depleted battery. In this situation, a backup
method can be used to operate the ignition switch.
Put the nose side (side opposite of the emergency
key) of the key fob against the START/STOP
ignition button, with your foot applied on the brake
pedal, and push to operate the ignition switch.
WARNING!
Always remove the key fobs from the vehicle
and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle
unattended.
For vehicles equipped with Keyless
Enter ‘n Go™ Ignition, always remember to
place the ignition in the OFF position when
exiting the vehicle.
CAUTION!

The Sentry Key Immobilizer system is not compatible
with some aftermarket Remote Start systems. Use of
these systems may result in vehicle starting
problems and loss of security protection.

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 18

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL85
DIESEL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions
per minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Engine Coolant Temperature

This gauge shows the engine coolant tempera -
ture. The gauge pointer will likely show higher
temperatures when driving in hot weather, up
mountain grades, or in heavy stop and go
traffic. If the red Warning Light turns on while
driving, safely bring the vehicle to a stop, and
turn off the engine. DO NOT operate the
vehicle until the cause is corrected.
3. Instrument Cluster Display
When the appropriate conditions exist, this
display shows the instrument cluster
display messages Ú
page 89.
The display always shows one of the main
menu item after the ignition is placed on.
4. Oil Pressure Gauge
The pointer should always indicate some oil
pressure when the engine is running. A
continuous high or low reading under
normal driving conditions may indicate a
lubrication system malfunction. Immediate
service should be obtained from an autho -
rized dealer.
5. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
6. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Gauge
The DEF Gauge displays the actual level of
Diesel Exhaust Fluid in the DEF tank. DEF is
required to maintain normal vehicle opera -
tion and emissions compliance. If some -
thing is wrong with the gauge, a DEF
Warning Message or Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) will be displayed. More informa -
tion is available in the instrument cluster
display section under the heading of DEF
Warning Messages. 7. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the
fuel tank when the ignition switch is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to
the side of the vehicle where the
fuel filler door is located.
NOTE:
The gauge may take up to five seconds to
update after adding a gallon or more of DEF to
the DEF tank. If you have a fault related to the
DEF system, the gauge may not update to the
new level. See an authorized dealer for service.
The DEF gauge may also not immediately
update after a refill if the temperature of the
DEF fluid is below 39°F (4°C). The DEF tank
heater will possibly warm up the DEF fluid and
allow the gauge to update after a period of run
time. Under very cold conditions, it is possible
that the gauge may not reflect the new fill level
for several drives.
NOTE:The Instrument Cluster Warning Indicators will illu -
minate briefly for a bulb check when the ignition is
first cycled.
WARNING!
A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or
others could be badly burned by steam or boiling
coolant. It is recommended to call an authorized
dealer for service if your vehicle overheats.
CAUTION!

Driving with a hot engine cooling system could
damage your vehicle. If the temperature gauge reads
greater “H,” pull over and stop the vehicle. Idle the
vehicle with the air conditioner turned off until the
pointer drops back into the normal range. If the
pointer remains on the “h,” turn the engine off
immediately and call an authorized dealer for service.

3

23_DPF_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 85

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL87
DIESEL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

1. Tachometer

Indicates the engine speed in revolutions
per minute (RPM x 1000).
2. Instrument Cluster Display
When the appropriate conditions exist, this
display shows the instrument cluster
display messages Ú page 89.
The display always shows one of the main
menu item after the ignition is placed on.
3. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
4. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Gauge
The DEF Gauge displays the actual level of
Diesel Exhaust Fluid in the DEF tank. DEF is
required to maintain normal vehicle opera -
tion and emissions compliance. If some -
thing is wrong with the gauge, a DEF
Warning Message or Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) will be displayed. More informa -
tion is available in the instrument cluster
display section under the heading of Diesel
Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Warning Messages. 5. Fuel Gauge
The pointer shows the level of fuel in the
fuel tank when the ignition switch is in the
ON/RUN position.
 The fuel pump symbol points to
the side of the vehicle where the
fuel filler door is located.
NOTE:
The DEF tank on these vehicles is designed with
a large amount of full reserve. So the level
sensor will indicate a full reading even before
the tank is completely full. To put it another way,
there’s additional storage capacity in the tank
above the Full mark that’s not represented in
the gauge. You may not see any movement in
the reading, even after driving up to 200 miles
(321 kilometers) in some cases.
The gauge may take up to five seconds to
update after adding a gallon or more of DEF to
the DEF tank. If you have a fault related to the
DEF system, the gauge may not update to the
new level. See an authorized dealer for service.
The DEF gauge may also not immediately
update after a refill if the temperature of the
DEF fluid is below 39°F (4°C). The DEF tank
heater will possibly warm up the DEF fluid and
allow the gauge to update after a period of run
time. Under very cold conditions, it is possible
that the gauge may not reflect the new fill level
for several drives.
NOTE:The Instrument Cluster Warning Indicators will illu -
minate briefly for a bulb check when the ignition is
first cycled.
3

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102GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
NOTE:
The charging system is independent from load
reduction. The charging system performs a diag-
nostic on the charging system continuously.
If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it may
indicate a problem with the charging system
Ú page 104.
The electrical loads that may be switched off
(if equipped), and vehicle functions which can be
affected by load reduction:
Heated Seats/Vented Seats/Heated Wheel
Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors
HVAC System
115 Volt AC Power Inverter System
Audio and Telematics System
Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or
more of the following conditions:
The charging system cannot deliver enough
electrical power to the vehicle system because
the electrical loads are larger than the capability
of charging system. The charging system is still
functioning properly.
Turning on all possible vehicle electrical loads
(e.g. HVAC to max settings, exterior and interior
lights, overloaded power outlets +12 Volts, 115
Volt AC, USB ports) during certain driving condi -
tions (city driving, towing, frequent stopping).
Installing options like additional lights, upfitter
electrical accessories, audio systems, alarms
and similar devices.
Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated by
long parking periods).
The vehicle was parked for an extended period
of time (weeks, months).
The battery was recently replaced and was not
charged completely.
The battery was discharged by an electrical load
left on when the vehicle was parked.
The battery was used for an extended period
with the engine not running to supply radio,
lights, chargers, +12 Volt portable appliances
like vacuum cleaners, game consoles and
similar devices.
What to do when an electrical load reduction
action message is present (“Battery Saver On” or
“Battery Saver Mode”)
During a trip:
Reduce power to unnecessary loads if possible:
Turn off redundant lights (interior or exte -
rior).
Check what may be plugged in to power
outlets +12 Volts, 115 Volt AC, USB ports.
Check HVAC settings (blower, temperature).
Check the audio settings (volume). After a trip:
Check if any aftermarket equipment was
installed (additional lights, upfitter electrical
accessories, audio systems, alarms) and review
specifications if any (load and Ignition Off Draw
currents).
Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance,
driving time and parking time).
The vehicle should have service performed if
the message is still present during consecutive
trips and the evaluation of the vehicle and
driving pattern did not help to identify the cause.
WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES
The warning/indicator lights will illuminate in the
instrument panel together with a dedicated
message and/or acoustic signal when applicable.
These indications are indicative and precautionary
and as such must not be considered as exhaustive.
Always refer to the information in this chapter in
the event of a failure indication. All active telltales
will display first if applicable. The system check
menu may appear different based upon
equipment options and current vehicle status.
Some telltales are optional and may not appear.

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104GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
Hood Open Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
hood is ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single
chime.
Vehicle Security Warning Light —
If Equipped
This light will flash at a fast rate for
approximately 15 seconds when the
vehicle security system is arming, and
then will flash slowly until the vehicle
is disarmed.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
Light
This warning light warns of an
overheated engine condition. If the
engine coolant temperature is too high,
this indicator will illuminate and a single
chime will sound. If the temperature reaches the
upper limit, a continuous chime will sound for four
minutes or until the engine is able to cool,
whichever comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over
and stop the vehicle. If the Air Conditioning (A/C)
system is on, turn it off. Also, shift the transmission
into NEUTRAL and idle the vehicle. If the temperature reading does not return to normal,
turn the engine off immediately and call for service
Ú
page 335.
Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
battery is not charging properly. If it stays
on while the engine is running, there may
be a malfunction with the charging
system. Contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the
electrical system or a related component.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to
indicate low engine oil pressure. If the
light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle, shut off the engine as soon as
possible, and contact an authorized dealer. A
chime will sound when this light turns on.
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.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL105
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault
Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when
there's a fault with the EPS system
Úpage 148.
Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
Trailer Brake has been disconnected
Úpage 181.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light
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.
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 150.
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.
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.
CAUTION!
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Warning Light illuminated will
eventually cause severe transmission damage
or transmission failure.
3

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112GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
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 (MIL) is
functioning and is not on when the
engine is running, and that the OBD II system is
ready for testing.
Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The
OBD II system may not be ready if your vehicle was
recently serviced, recently had a depleted battery
or a battery replacement. If the OBD II system
should be determined not ready for the I/M test,
your vehicle may fail the test. 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 (MIL) 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 illuminated until you place the ignition
in the off position 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.
Regardless of whether your vehicle's OBD II system
is ready or not, if the MIL is illuminated during
normal vehicle operation you should have your
vehicle serviced before going to the I/M station.
The I/M station can fail your vehicle because the
MIL is on with the engine running.

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