Dodge Nitro: Instrument cluster descriptions - Understanding your instrument panel - Dodge Nitro Owner's ManualDodge Nitro: Instrument cluster descriptions

1. Fuel Gauge

The fuel gauge shows level of fuel in tank when ignition switch is in the ON position.

2. Fuel Door Reminder

the vehicleThis symbol indicates the side of the vehicle where the fuel cap is located.

3. Temperature Gauge

The temperature gauge shows engine coolant temperature. Any reading within the normal range indicates that the engine cooling system is operating satisfactorily. The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher temperature when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal operating range.

CAUTION: Driving with a hot engine cooling system could damage your vehicle. If temperature gauge reads “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” and you hear continuous chimes, turn the engine off immediately, and call an authorized dealership for service.

WARNING: A hot engine cooling system is dangerous. You or others could be badly burned by steam or boiling coolant. You may want to call an authorized dealership for service if your vehicle overheats. If you decide to look under the hood yourself, see “Maintaining Your Vehicle”. Follow the warnings under the Cooling System Pressure Cap paragraph.

4. Low Fuel Light

approximately 2.0 galWhen the fuel level reaches approximately 2.0 gal (7.8 L) this light will turn on, and remain on until fuel is added.

5. Seat Belt Reminder Light

turned ON, thisWhen the ignition switch is first turned ON, this light will turn on for five to eight seconds as a bulb check. During the bulb check, if the driver’s seat belt is unbuckled, a chime will sound. After the bulb check or when driving, if the driver’s seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will illuminate and the chime will sound. Refer to “Occupant Restraints” in “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.

6. Engine Temperature Warning Light

engine condition.This light warns of an overheated engine condition. As temperatures rise and the gauge approaches H , this indicator will illuminate and a single chime will sound after reaching a set threshold. Further overheating will cause the temperature gauge to pass H , the indicator will continuously flash and a continuous chime will occur until the engine is allowed to cool. If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and stop the vehicle. If the 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. Refer to “If Your Engine Overheats” in “What To Do In Emergencies” for further information.

7. Speedometer

Shows the vehicles speed.

8. High Beam Indicator

high beam headlightsThis indicator shows that the high beam headlights are on. Push the multifunction lever forward to switch the headlights to high beam, and pull toward yourself (normal position) to return to low beam.

9. Vehicle Security Light

rate for approximatelyThis light will flash at a fast rate for approximately 15 seconds, when the vehicle security alarm is arming, and then will flash slowly until the vehicle is disarmed.

10. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Warning Light / Brake Assist System (BAS) Warning Light – If Equipped

Electronic StabilityThe malfunction light for the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is combined with Brake Assist System (BAS). The yellow “ESP/BAS Warning Light” comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. They should go out with the engine running. If the “ESP/BAS Warning Light” comes on continuously with the engine running, a malfunction has been detected in either the ESP or the BAS system. If this 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.

NOTE: The ESP Control System will make buzzing or clicking sounds when it is actively operating.

WARNING: If a warning light remains on the system may not be working and you will not have the benefit of ESP or BAS. Under certain driving conditions, where ESP or BAS would be beneficial, you - if you have not adjusted your driving speeds and stopping in or to account for the lack of the feature, may be in accident.

11. TOW/HAUL Indicator

the gearThe TOW/HAUL button is located on the gear shift bezel. This light will illuminate when the TOW/HAUL button has been selected.

12. Turn Signal Indicators

exterior turn signalThe arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal when the turn signal lever is operated. If the vehicle electronics sense that the vehicle has traveled about 1 mile (1.6 km) with the turn signals on, a continuous chime will sound to alert you to turn the signals off. If either indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective outside light bulb.

13. Transmission Temperature Warning Light

is excessive transmissionThis light indicates that there is excessive transmission fluid temperature that might occur with severe usage such as trailer towing. If this light comes on, stop the vehicle and run the engine at idle or faster, with the transmission in NEUTRAL until the light goes off.

CAUTION: Continuous driving with the Transmission TemperatureWarning Light illuminated will eventually cause severe transmission damage or transmission failure.

WARNING: Continued operation with the Transmission Temperature Warning Light illuminated could cause the fluid to boil over, come in contact with hot engine or exhaust components causing a fire that may result in personal injury.

14. Brake Warning Light

functions,This 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 Program (ESP) 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 BrakeWarning 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 an accident. 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 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 position.

NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.

15. Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light

problem with theThis light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cycle the ignition key when the vehicle has completely stopped and the shift lever is placed in the PARK position. The light should turn off. If the light remains lit with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable; however, see an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible. If the light is flashing when the engine 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 first turned ON 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.

16. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Indicator Light / Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator Light

Program (ESP)The yellow Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Traction Control System (TCS) indicator light in the speedometer area illuminates with the key in the ignition switch turned to the ON/ RUN position. It should go out with the engine running. The ESP/TCS Indicator Light starts to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the ESP system becomes active. The ESP/TCS Indicator Light also flashes when TCS is active. If the ESP/TCS Indicator Light begins to flash during acceleration, ease up on the accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions. The “ESP/ TCS Indicator Light” becomes illuminated when the ESP Off button has been pressed or ESP is only partially available, caused by lack of engine management or brake thermal model.

17. Charging System Light

the electrical chargingThis light shows the status of the electrical charging system. The light should come on when the ignition switch is first turned ON and remain on briefly as a bulb check. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, turn off some of the vehicle’s non-essential electrical devices or increase engine speed (if at idle). If the charging system light remains on, it means that the vehicle is experiencing a problem with the charging system. Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. See an authorized dealer.

If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump Starting Procedures” in “What To Do In Emergencies”.

18. SERV (Service) 4WD Indicator

will come onThe “SERV 4WD Indicator Light” will come on when the ignition key is turned to the ON position and will stay on for two seconds. 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.

19. Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light

Brake SystemThis light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS). The light will turn on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as four seconds. If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving, it indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. However, the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally if the BRAKE warning light is not on. If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefits of Anti-Lock brakes. If the ABS light does not turn on when the Ignition switch is turned to the ON position, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer.

20. Front Fog Light Indicator

when the fog lightsThis indicator will illuminate when the fog lights are On.

21. Oil Pressure Warning Light

oil pressure. TheThis light indicates low engine oil pressure. The light should turn on momentarily when the engine is started. If the light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A chime will sound for four minutes 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.

22. Airbag Warning Light

to eight secondsThis light will turn on for four to eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned ON. If the light is either not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, then have the system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as possible. Refer to “Occupant Restraints” in “Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.

23. Tachometer

This gauge measures engine revolutions-per-minute (RPM x 1000). Before the pointer reaches the red area, ease up on the accelerator to prevent engine damage.

24. Shift Lever Indicator

The Shift Lever Indicator is self-contained within the instrument cluster. It displays the gear position of the automatic transmission.

25. Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light

(if provided),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 Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated.

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 under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation 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 under-inflation 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. Do not use tire sealant from a can, or balance beads if your vehicle is equipped with a TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result.

26. Odometer / Trip Odometer Display Area

The odometer shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven. The trip odometer shows individual trip mileage. Refer to “Trip Odometer Button” for additional information.

NOTE: U.S. Federal regulations require that upon transfer of vehicle ownership, the seller certify to the purchaser the correct mileage that the vehicle has been driven. If your odometer needs to be repaired or serviced, the repair technician should leave the odometer reading the same as it was before the repair or service. If s/he cannot do so, then the odometer must be set at zero, and a sticker must be placed in the door jamb stating what the mileage was before the repair or service. It is a good idea for you to make a record of the odometer reading before the repair/service, so that you can be sure that it is properly reset, or that the door jamb sticker is accurate if the odometer must be reset at zero.

Vehicle Odometer Messages

When the appropriate conditions exist, the following messages will display in the odometer: ECO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel Saver Indicator Off. ECO-ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel Saver Indicator On. door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Door Ajar. gATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Liftgate Ajar. gASCAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel Cap Fault. noFUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuse Fault. CHAngE OIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oil Change Required. LoWASH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LowWasher Fluid. On vehicles equipped with a Premium Instrument Cluster, this display shows the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) messages when the appropriate conditions exist. Refer to Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) for further information. ECO / ECO-ON (Fuel Saver Indicator) The ECO-ON indicator will illuminate when you are driving in a fuel efficient manner and can be used to modify driving habits in order to increase fuel economy. The ECO display will toggle between ECO and ECO-ON depending on driving habits and vehicle usage. Press the Odometer / Trip Odometer / ECO (Fuel Saver Indicator) button to change the display from odometer to either of the two trip odometer settings or the “ECO” display.

gASCAP Message

If the vehicle diagnostic system determines that the fuel filler cap is loose, improperly installed, or damaged, “gASCAP” will be displayed in the odometer display area. Tighten the fuel filler cap properly and press the odometer reset button to turn the gASCAP message off. If the problem continues, the message will appear the next time the vehicle is started.

A loose, improperly installed, or damaged fuel filler cap may also turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).

noFUSE

If the vehicle diagnostic system determines that the Ignition Off Draw (IOD) fuse is improperly installed, or damaged, a “noFUSE” message will display in the odometer display area. For further information on fuses and fuse locations refer to “Fuses” in “Maintaining Your Vehicle”.

CHAngE OIL Message

Your vehicle is equipped with an engine oil change indicator system. The “CHAngE OIL” message will flash in the instrument cluster odometer for approximately 12 seconds after a single chime has sounded to indicate the next scheduled oil change interval. The engine oil change indicator system is duty cycle based, which means the engine oil change interval may fluctuate dependent upon your personal driving style. Unless reset, this message will continue to display each time you turn the ignition switch to the ON/RUN position. To turn off the message temporarily, press and release the TRIP ODOMETER button on the instrument cluster. To reset the oil change indicator system (after performing the scheduled maintenance), refer to the following procedure: 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. Do not start the engine. 2. Fully depress the accelerator pedal slowly three times within 10 seconds. 3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF/LOCK position.

NOTE: If the indicator message illuminates when you start the vehicle, the oil change indicator system did not reset. If necessary, repeat this procedure.

27. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

(MIL) is part ofThe Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of an onboard diagnostic system, called OBD, that monitors engine and automatic transmission control systems. The light will illuminate when the key is in the ON position, before engine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON, have the condition checked promptly. Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc., may illuminate the MIL after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing.

CAUTION: Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause damage to the engine control system. It also could affect fuel economy and drivability. If the MIL is flashing, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is required.

WARNING: A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as referenced above, can reach higher temperatures than in normal operating conditions. This can cause a fire if you drive slowly or park over flammable substances such as dry plants or wood or cardboard, etc. This could result in death or serious injury to the driver, occupants or others.

28. Cruise Indicator

This indicator lights when the electronic speed control system is turned on.

29. Odometer / Trip Odometer / ECO (Fuel Saver Indicator) Button

Changing the Display

Press this button to change the display from odometer to either of the two trip odometer settings or the “ECO” display. Trip A or Trip B will appear when in the trip odometer mode. On vehicles equipped with a Base Cluster, press and release it once again to display the outside temperature. On vehicles equipped with a Mid Line Cluster, press and release it once again to display the outside temperature and compass heading in the screen below the speedometer. Refer to “Compass/Trip Computer” for details.

Resetting the Trip Odometer

Display the trip mileage that you want to reset, “Trip A” or “Trip B.” Then push and hold the button (approximately two seconds) until the display resets to 0. The odometer must be in Trip Mode to reset the trip odometer.

30. Compass/Trip Computer or Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) Display

When the appropriate conditions exist, this display shows the Compass/Trip Computer or Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) messages. For further information refer to “Compass/Trip Computer” or “Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC)”.

31. 4WD Indicator

is in four-wheelThis light indicates the vehicle is in four-wheel drive and 4LOCK. 4WD allows all four wheels to receive torque from the engine simultaneously.

    Compass and trip computer
    The Compass/Trip Computer features a driverinteractive display (displays information on outside temperature, compass direction, and trip information). It is located on the lower left part of the ...

    See also:

    Jack Location
    The scissor-type jack and tire changing tools are located in the cargo compartment behind a trim cover on the left rear trim panel. The latch is located at the bottom of the trim cover. Jack ...

    Door Locks
    To lock or unlock the vehicle from the outside, press or on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. There is a power door lock switch on the instrument panel. There are power door lock s ...

    Underbody Maintenance
    Use plain water to flush dirt and debris from the vehicle's underbody. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this. If not removed, rust and corrosion can develop. ...