2023 RAM 1500 Cluster Warning Lights Guide
Introduction
The RAM 1500, which combines strength, good looks, and elegance, is more than simply a pickup truck. It is the height of automotive innovation. One of the distinguishing characteristics of this innovation is its cutting-edge Cluster Warning Lights system. We’ll examine how these lights have been created to improve your driving experience as we delve into this astounding development, providing safety, awareness, and peace of mind while driving.
We’ll give you a sneak peek into the world of the 2023 RAM 1500’s Cluster Warning Lights in this introduction, highlighting its cutting-edge technology and how it helps to make every travel safer and more pleasant. These warning lights are your constant friends, providing real-time information as you navigate the busy city streets or go on off-road excursions. Join us on this voyage as we illuminate the future with the Cluster Warning Lights of the 2023 RAM 1500. We’ll show you how they reflect the marriage of cutting-edge engineering and your driving requirements, producing a car that leads the automotive industry in safety and awareness.
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 and/or alternative to the information contained in the Owner’s Manual, which you are advised to read carefully in all cases. 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 Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault with the air bag, 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 air bag has been detected, it will stay on until the fault is cleared. If the light is either not on during startup, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
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 to 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.
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.
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.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Fault Warning Light
This warning light will turn on when there’s a fault with the EPS system.
WARNING
Continued operation with reduced assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be obtained as soon as possible.
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 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 (N) 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, and a chime will sound, to indicate low engine oil pressure. If the light and chime turn on while driving, safely stop the vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. After the vehicle is safely stopped, restart the engine and monitor the Oil Pressure Warning Light. If the Oil Pressure Warning Light is still illuminated, turn the engine OFF and contact an authorized dealer for further assistance. Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected. If the light is no longer illuminated, the engine can be operated but it is recommended to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as possible. 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.
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.
Tailgate Open Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the tailgate is open.
NOTE:
If the vehicle is moving, there will also be a single chime.
Trailer Brake Disconnected Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the Trailer Brake has been disconnected.
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
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.
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.
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 an authorized dealer for service.
Air Suspension Fault Warning Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when a fault is detected with the air suspension system.
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.
Electric Park Brake Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate the Electric Park Brake is not functioning properly and service is required. Contact an authorized dealer.
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 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 — 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.
Service LaneSense Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the LaneSense system is not operating and requires service. Please contact an authorized dealer.
Low Fuel Warning Light
When the fuel level is less than a quarter tank, and the Distance to Empty is less than 50 miles, this light will turn on and remain on until fuel is added. A single warning chime will sound with Low Fuel Warning.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the windshield washer fluid is low.
Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Warning Light (MIL)
The 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.
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 driveability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
Rear Axle Locker Fault Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate when a rear axle locker fault has been detected.
Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault in the FCW System. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
Service Stop/Start System Warning Light — If Equipped
This warning light will illuminate when the Stop/Start system is not functioning properly and service is required. Contact an authorized dealer for service.
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.
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 warning 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
Air Suspension Aerodynamic Height Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air suspension system is set to the Aerodynamic setting.
Air Suspension Normal Height Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air suspension system is set to the Normal setting.
Air Suspension Off-Road 1 Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air suspension system is set to the Off-Road 1 setting.
Air Suspension Off-Road 2 Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the air suspension system is set to the Off-Road 2 setting.
Air Suspension Payload Protection Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate to indicate that the maximum payload may have been exceeded or load leveling cannot be achieved at its current ride height. Protection mode will automatically be selected to “protect” the air suspension system. Air suspension adjustment is limited due to payload.
Air Suspension Ride Height Raising Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will blink and alert the driver that the vehicle is changing to a higher ride height.
Air Suspension Ride Height Lowering Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will blink and alert the driver that the vehicle is changing to a lower ride height.
Cargo Light On Indicator Light —If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the cargo light is activated by pushing the cargo light button on the headlight switch.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Off Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light illuminates to indicate that Forward Collision Warning is off.
NEUTRAL Indicator Light — If Equipped
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.
Rear Axle Lock Indicator Light
This light indicates when the rear axle lock has been activated.
Entry/Exit Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light will illuminate when the vehicle is automatically lowered from ride height position downward for easy entry and exit of the vehicle
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
4WD Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the four-wheel drive mode, and 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 — If Equipped
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 — If Equipped
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.
GREEN INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With Target Indicator Light — If Equipped
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 — If Equipped
This light will turn on when the ACC is set and there is no vehicle in front detected
ECO Mode Indicator Light
This light will turn on when ECO mode is active.
Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the front fog lights are on.
LaneSense Indicator Light — If Equipped
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.
Cruise Control SET Indicator Light — If Equipped With Premium Instrument Cluster Display
This light will turn on when the cruise control is set.
Stop/Start Active Indicator Light —If Equipped
This indicator light will illuminate when the Stop/Start function is in “Autostop” mode.
4WD AUTO Indicator Light —If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the four-wheel drive auto mode, and the front axle is engaged, but the vehicle’s power is sent to the rear wheels. Four-wheel drive will be automatically engaged when the vehicle senses a loss of traction.
WHITE INDICATOR LIGHTS
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready Indicator Light — If EquippedThis 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.
Select-Speed Control (SSC) Indicator Light — If Equipped
This indicator shows when the SSC feature is turned on. The light will be on solid when SSC is armed. SSC can only be armed when the transfer case is in the “4WD Low” position and the vehicle speed is less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If these conditions are not met while attempting to use the SSC feature, the SSC indicator light will flash on/off.
Lane Sense Indicator Light — If EquippedWhen the Lane Sense system is ON, but not armed, the Lane Sense indicator light illuminates solid white. This occurs when only 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.
Cruise Control SET Indicator Light — If Equipped With Base/Midline Instrument Cluster DisplayThis light will turn on when the cruise control is set.
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.
FAQs
The purpose of cluster warning lights is to inform you of various conditions, faults, or prospective concerns with your vehicle.
Typical warning lights have distinctive icons or symbols. For a comprehensive list and explanation of each, consult your owner’s manual.
An issue with the engine or emissions system of the car is indicated by the check engine light. It is advised to have a mechanic examine it.
When the oil pressure warning light turns on, you should stop right away, turn the vehicle off, and check the oil level. An engine’s oil pressure should be enough.
A problem with the charging system is indicated by the battery warning light. It can be a broken battery, alternator, or connected part.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light indicates an issue with the ABS, which could impair braking effectiveness. Check it out.
A problem with the airbag system is indicated by the airbag warning light. If this light is on, safety systems might not deploy appropriately.
One or more tires may have low pressure, according to the tire pressure warning light. Check tire pressure and make necessary adjustments.
Normally, the traction control light turns on when the system is actively attempting to keep the car stable. If it continues to run, there might be an issue.
The brake warning light denotes a brake system issue. Your brakes need to be tested right away to ensure your safety.
Your fuel level is dangerously low, as shown by the low fuel warning light. To avoid running out of fuel, locate a gas station and fill up quickly.
A malfunctioning TPMS system is often indicated by a blinking TPMS light. Check it out to make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Your car’s 4WD warning light shows that it is in four-wheel drive mode. It might also let you know if the 4WD system has any problems.
The temperature warning light indicates an overheated engine. Before continuing, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and let it cool.
When cruise control is engaged and set to a specific speed, the cruise control indicator light turns on. When you disengage cruise control, it goes off.
Useful Link
View Full PDF:2023 RAM 1500 Auto User Guide
2023 RAM 1500 Dashboard Warning and Indicator Lights
Related Article
2023 RAM HEAVY DUTY Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review
2023 RAM PROMASTER Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review