2024 RAM 4500 Chassis Cab Cluster Warning Lights User Guide
This Guide explains the 2024 RAM 4500 Chassis Cab cluster warning lights, their meanings, and how they warn of potential concerns for safe and efficient vehicle operation.
Video: 2024 RAM 4500 Chassis Cab Dashboard Warning Indicators
WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES
The warning/indicator lights will illuminate 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.
RED WARNING LIGHTS
Air Bag Warning
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault with the airbag and will turn on for four to eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position. This light will illuminate with a single chime when a fault with the airbag has been detected, it will stay on until the fault is cleared. If the light is not on during startup, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Battery Charge Warning
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.
Brake Warning Light
This warning light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake application. If the brake light turns on it may indicate that the parking brake is applied, that the brake fluid level is low, or that there is a problem with the Anti-Lock Brake System reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been disengaged, and the fluid level is at the full mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake hydraulic system malfunction or that a problem with the Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. In this case, the light will remain on until the condition has been corrected. If the problem is related to the brake booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake, and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt during each stop.
The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity in the event of a failure of a portion of the hydraulic system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is indicated by the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has dropped below a specified level. The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.
NOTE:
The light may flash momentarily during sharp cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level conditions. The vehicle should have service performed, and the brake fluid level checked. If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is necessary.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS) are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the ON/RUN position. The light should illuminate for approximately two seconds. The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:
This light shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.
Door Open Warning Light
This indicator will illuminate when a door is ajar/open and not fully closed.
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.
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 can 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
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.
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 the oil temperature to return to normal levels.
Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light
This warning light indicates when the driver or passenger seat belt is unbuckled. When the ignition is first placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position and if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, a chime will sound and the light will turn on. When driving, if the driver or front passenger seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will flash or remain on continuously and a chime will sound
Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the Trailer Brake has been disconnected.
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.
Vehicle Security Warning Light
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.
Yellow Warning Lights
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Fault Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault in the ACC system. Contact a local authorized dealer for service.
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.
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.
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 the engine starts. 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 the engine starts. 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.
WARNING!
A malfunctioning catalytic converter 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 drive-ability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active Warning Light
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 Indicator 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
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.
LaneSense Warning Light
The LaneSense system provides the driver with visual and steering torque warnings when the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane unintentionally without the use of a turn signal.
- When the LaneSense system senses a lane drift situation, the LaneSense indicator changes from solid green to solid yellow.
- When the LaneSense system senses the lane has been approached and is in a lane departure situation, the LaneSense indicator changes from solid
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the windshield washer fluid is low.
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 a Low Fuel Warning.
Low Coolant Level Warning Light
This telltale will turn on to indicate the vehicle coolant level is low.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light
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.
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault in the Forward Collision Warning System. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Service LaneSense Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the LaneSense system is not operating and requires service. Please see an authorized dealer.
Service 4WD Warning Light
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.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light
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 previously mentioned, the display will show the indications corresponding to each tire.
CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires as handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle, avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a tire puncture occurs, repair immediately using the dedicated tire repair kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
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 has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires.
As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a TPMS that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly underinflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if underinflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and warnings have been established for the tire size equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system operation or sensor damage may result when using replacement equipment that is not of the same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire sealants may cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to become inoperable. After using an aftermarket tire sealant it is recommended that you take your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your sensor function checked.
Yellow Indicator Lights
Cargo Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the cargo light is activated by pushing the cargo light button on the headlight switch.
Cold Ambient Derate Mode Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when a derate (engine power reduction) is activated for protection of the turbocharger in cold ambient temperatures.
Diesel Exhaust Brake Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the Diesel Exhaust Brake has been activated and is in full-strength mode.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Off Indicator Light
This indicator light illuminates to indicate that the Forward Collision Warning is off.
Low Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Indicator Light
The Low DEF Indicator will illuminate if the vehicle is low on DEF.
NEUTRAL Indicator Light
This light alerts the driver that the 4WD power transfer case is in the NEUTRAL mode and the front and rear driveshafts are disengaged from the powertrain.
4WD Lock Indicator Light
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the 4WD Lock mode. The front and rear driveshafts are mechanically locked together, forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.
4WD Low Indicator Light
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the 4WD Low mode. The front and rear driveshafts are mechanically locked together forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. Low range provides a greater gear reduction ratio to provide increased torque at the wheels
4WD High Indicator Light
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the 4WD High mode. The front and rear driveshafts are mechanically locked together forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.
Snowplow Mode Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when Snowplow mode has been activated.
TOW/HAUL Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when TOW/HAUL mode is selected.
Trailer Merge Assist Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate when Trailer Merge Assist has been activated.
Wait To Start the Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate for approximately two seconds when the ignition is turned to the RUN position. Its duration may be longer based on colder operating conditions. The vehicle will not initiate a start until the telltale is no longer displayed.
Water In Fuel Indicator Light
The Water In Fuel Indicator Light will illuminate when there is water detected in the fuel filter. If this light remains on, DO NOT start the vehicle before you drain the water from the fuel filter to prevent engine damage
Green Indicator Lights
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With Target Indicator Light 
This will display when the ACC is set and a vehicle in front is detected.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With No Target Detected Indicator Light
This light will turn on when the Adaptive Cruise Control is SET and there is no vehicle in front detected
Automatic Diesel Exhaust Brake Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the Diesel Exhaust Brake has been activated and has switched to Automatic mode
Cruise Control Set Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the cruise control is set to the desired speed.
ECO Mode Indicator Light
This light will turn on when ECO mode is active.
Front Fog Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the front fog lights are on.
LaneSense Indicator Light
The LaneSense indicator light illuminates solid green when both lane markings have been detected and the system is armed and ready to provide visual and torque warnings if an unintentional lane departure occurs
Parking/Headlights On Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the parking lights or headlights are turned on.
Turn Signal Indicator Lights
When the left or right turn signal is activated, the turn signal indicator will flash independently and the corresponding exterior turn signal lamps will flash. Turn signals can be activated when the multifunction lever is moved down (left) or up (right).
NOTE:
- A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.
- Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either indicator flashes at a rapid rate.
If equipped with fog lamps, the fog lamp on the side of the activated turn signal will also illuminate to provide additional light when turning.
White Indicator Lights
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready Indicator Light
This light will illuminate when the vehicle equipped with ACC has been turned on but not set.
Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light
This indicator light will illuminate when the cruise control is ready, but not set.
LaneSense Indicator Light
When the LaneSense system is ON, but not armed, the LaneSense indicator light illuminates solid white. This occurs when only the left, right, or neither lane line has been detected. If a single lane line is detected, the system is ready to provide only visual warnings if an unintentional lane departure occurs on the detected lane line
Set Speed Display Indicator Light
The Set Speed Display indicator light indicates the set speed for the Speed Control and ACC settings.
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.
Useful Link
View Full PDF: 2024 RAM 4500 Chassis Cab | Auto User Guide
2024 RAM 4500 Chassis Cab Display Setup Guide