RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (2023)

Detailed below are the dashboard warning lights for the RAM ProMaster van, including models ProMaster 1500, 2500 and 3500. Warning symbols include an explanation of their meaning and advice on what action to take based on RAM’s recommendations. The dashboard instrument cluster display design and warning light locations may vary depending on the model year of your ProMaster van.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (1) Airbag Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster airbag warning light displays in red from between four to eight seconds when the ignition is switched on. This is normal and is part of a bulb check. If the airbag light remains constantly lit and alerts with a single chime, it means there’s a fault with the airbag system and in the event of a collision, the airbag may not deploy. In rare cases, the airbag may unexpectedly be deployed when a collision has not taken place.

Ideally diagnostic should be done to read fault codes from the airbag’s ECU. Common reasons why the RAM ProMaster airbag warning light comes on are:

  • Seat belt sensor – debris is inside the seat belt buckle.
  • Wiring under the seat – this wiring relates to the airbag and seat belt pretensioner systems. Often when items are pushed under the seat, it can dislodge a cable.
  • Light collision – this can cause the airbag warning light to remain on. The airbag system needs to be reset.
  • Crash sensor fault.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (2) Battery Warning Light

If the RAM ProMaster battery warning light stays on, or intermittently comes on, it’s usually an indication that there’s a problem with the electrical charging system. If the battery isn’t being charged, there’s a high possibility that the van may breakdown. The cause of the battery may relate to:

  • Loose or corroded battery terminals.
  • Other wiring that connects components to the charging system.
  • Failing alternator / generator.
  • Broken / loose drive belts.

If you’re driving the van when the battery light comes on, to help conserve battery charge and to remain mobile for as long as possible, immediately switch off any vehicle utilities that consume electric and that are not essential.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (3) ETC Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) looks like a lightening bolt symbol and the warning light may illuminate or flash. Sometimes an engine restart will result in the ETC light going off. If it continues to stay on or flash, the van may go into reduced performance mode, otherwise known as limp mode.

Common RAM ETC problems can be related to throttle body, EGR valve, MAP sensor. Many more issues can trigger the ETC warning light and as a result, have a diagnostics scan for fault codes. ETC light may illuminate along with the check engine warning light.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (4) Transmission Fault Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster exclamation point inside a cog is the transmission fault warning light. It may come on along with a audible buzzer. As with many other warning lights, always have diagnostics in order to scan fault codes. Some common transmission faults include the transmission Control Module, transmission fluid / filter (certain versions only) or a software update.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (5) Engine Temperature Warning Light

The illumination of the engine temperature warning light means the RAM ProMaster coolant is too hot. IF the light comes on while driving, safely pull over and stop the van. Switch off the A/C system if it’s on and idle the engine for a period of time. If the temperature does not return to normal, switch off the engine.

When the engine has sufficiently cooled, check coolant levels and add fluid if required. Frequent topping up of coolant usually indicates a leak in the system.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (6) Oil Pressure Warning Light

The oil pressure warning light illuminates to warn of low engine oil pressure. If this light comes on while driving, safely pull of the road, stop and switch off the engine immediately. Low oil level can be the cause of the low oil pressure light coming on, but do not continue driving until you have located the cause. Driving with low oil pressure will cause significant engine damage due to internal components not being properly lubricated.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (7) Brake Warning Light

The red brake warning light illuminates when the parking brake is applied. If the parking brake is fully released, yet the brake warning light remains lit, it may be an indication of low brake fluid. Check the brake master cylinder reservoir levels and top up if required.

If the parking brake is properly released and the brake fluid level is at an acceptable level, it may indicate a fault with the brake hydraulic system 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 instance, have your brake system serviced immediately.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (8) Security Warning Light

The security warning light flashes quickly for around 15 seconds whilst the van’s security alarm system is arming itself. After it is armed, the warning light will flash slowly until the alarm system has been disarmed.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (9) ABS Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning light comes on with the ignition for around 4 seconds, then goes out as part of a bulb check. If the ABS light remains lit, it means the ABS has malfunctioned, however, normal brakes remain unaffected. A very common cause of the ABS light is due to a fault wheel speed sensor – there’s one located at each wheel.

ABS and Brake Warning Light

Vans equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). EBD helps to distribute brake force to individual wheels, improving the van’s braking ability. If the RAM ProMaster ABS light and brake warning light both illuminate, it means there’s a fault with the EBD system. It’s advised to drive with high caution and have the brake system serviced immediately.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (10) Check Engine Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster check engine warning light comes on when the ignition is set to on as part of a bulb check. If the check engine light stays on, or comes on while driving the van, it means the Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) has detected a fault. In most situations, if the engine light remains steady lit, it’s safe to continue driving, but it’s advised to have the fault rectified as soon as possible to avoid long-term damage.

If the engine light flashes, you should avoid heavy acceleration, deceleration and high engine speeds as this can result in catalytic converter damage. If the light continue to flash, seek immediate attention.

The RAM ProMaster check engine light can come on simply due to a loose gas cap or poor fuel quality. There are also an array of sensors in the engine when faulty, will trigger the engine warning light. When the check engine light comes on, a fault code is often stored in the ECU. Use diagnostic equipment to read the fault codes, which in turn will help you diagnose the issues.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (11) Immobilizer Warning Light

The car and padlock symbol is the RAM ProMaster immobilizer warning light. It illuminates when the van’s security alarm system has detected an attempt to break into the vehicle. If the immobilizer light remains on continuously, it means a fault has been detected with the system. In this instance, the engine will be immobilized and not start. The cause can be to do with a damaged key / antennae around the key cylinder and the immobilizer not recognizing the the key. If you have a spare key fob, try this.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (12) Tire Pressure Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster tire pressure warning light comes on when one or more vehicle tires is below the recommended value. The tire pressure light also flashes for around one minute, then remains lit when there’s a fault with the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This is quite a common fault when having tires changed and resulting in tire pressure sensor damage or by using tires that are not the same size.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (13) ESC Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster ESC system (Electronic Stability Control) helps to reduce understeer, oversteer and reduce loss of traction. If the ESC light remains constantly lit, it means there’s a fault with the system. Faults with the ESC are often related to a wheel speed sensor, in which the ESC system uses. Also, when other problems with the vehicle are detected that result in reduced engine power, the ESC system can be disabled as a safety precaution. In this instance, the ESC light illuminates along with other warning lights such as ABS / check engine etc.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (14) Generic Warning Light

The RAM ProMaster warning triangle containing an exclamation point is a generic warning light, where a fault with the van has no specific warning light. This symbol illuminates for any of the following reasons:

  • Engine oil pressure sensor failure
  • External light failure
  • Fuel cut-off intervention or fail
  • Parking sensor failure
  • DST system failure

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (15) Stop Light Failure

This fault symbol comes on when one or more of the stop light bulbs fails. This is often due to one or more of the vans stop light bulbs blown, a blown protection fuse, a fault or break in the electrical circuit.

RAM ProMaster Dashboard Warning Lights - DASH-LIGHTS.COM (16) External Light Failure

This fault symbol comes on when a failure to one of the following lights has been detected: directional indicators, backup lights, parking lights, daytime running lights, clearance lights, license plate lights. This is often due to one or more of the vans external light bulbs being blown, a blown protection fuse, a fault or break in the electrical circuit.

FAQs

What do the warning lights on my dashboard mean? ›

Green or blue lights simply let you know that a system is on or operating. Orange/yellow warning lights generally signify that your vehicle needs to be serviced or repaired soon. These warnings are less urgent than if you have a red and/or flashing light. A red light means that you should take action immediately!

How do I clear my dash warning lights? ›

The first thing you can try, to turn off the car, then restart the engine. The second step is to disconnect your battery, wait for a few minutes then reconnect the battery. Another option is to continue to drive your car, and hope the light will reset itself.

What is the triangle light on the dash for Ram promaster? ›

Traction control warning: The traction control warning light is a symbol of a vehicle swerving, an exclamation point with a triangle around it, or any combination of letters: TCS (traction control system), ESC (electronic stability control), ESP (electronic stability program), or DSC (dynamic stability control).

What causes dashboard lights to go on and off? ›

Most likely, flickering dash lights are due to problems with the alternator. In addition to recharging the battery, the alternator is in control of running the electrical components in your vehicle. If the alternator is failing, it may not be able to steadily supply enough current to all the components.

What are the 3 main warning gauges on your dash? ›

They light up in case of a serious problem. There are three kinds of warning lights: Oil Pressure Warning Light. Temperature Warning Light.

Will disconnecting battery reset dash lights? ›

Disconnecting and reconnecting your battery will restart your vehicle's computer and clear the light. Drive an older vehicle around for a few days after repairs. The light will go off on its own once the computer resets.

How do you clear a car dashboard? ›

Clean a car dashboard by starting with a vacuum and then wiping it down with a microfiber cloth. The vacuum will pick up any large particles, and microfiber cloths are great for gentle, easy cleaning. The dashboard can be overlooked when cleaning your car.

How do you reset the check engine light without a scanner? ›

To reset a check engine light without a scanner, disconnect the negative battery cable and wait a few moments. This will reset the diagnostic system in your vehicle, and if the underlying issue has indeed been resolved, the light should go off immediately.

What does the light with a triangle and exclamation point mean? ›

This indicator lets you know that there's a Critical Warning Message that you need to read as soon as possible, but it doesn't actually indicate a specific problem. Really, the triangle with an exclamation point is a catch-all warning light, designed to alert you to issues that your other lights won't catch!

What is the warning light exclamation mark in triangle? ›

If you see that warning light triangle with an exclamation mark appear there's a simple explanation. This icon stands for your Honda vehicle's Vehicle Stability Assist system and will illuminate your dashboard when an issue with the system is detected.

What is the yellow triangle warning light on dashboard? ›

32. Warning light. The yellow triangle with an exclamation mark will typically be accompanied by a message explaining what's gone wrong. Hopefully it will be self-explanatory – such as a low reservoir for the windscreen washer system.

When should I worry about dashboard lights? ›

Green: the system is working correctly or is currently in use. Yellow: something is not working correctly - take extra care and check it out as soon as possible. Red: there is a serious, and potentially dangerous problem - stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so.

Can bad alternator cause dash lights to go out? ›

An early warning sign that your alternator is going bad could be dim, flickering lights. This symptom could show up on any or all of your dashboard lights, reading lights, headlights or other lights. The alternator is supposed to provide the electricity for your car's lights.

Can I drive my car with all the warning lights on? ›

Yes, and as soon as possible. So long as the vehicle seems to be running normally, you have time to reach your dealer for service at minimum. Just add a little more caution to your drive. However, if the vehicle is not running properly, do not attempt to drive it.

What is the most serious warning light in a car? ›

The check engine light is usually the most serious and feared warning because of the kind of damage it can signal. This warning often indicates the potential for serious engine damage. When ignored, your vehicle could suffer from a blown head gasket or a seized engine.

What is the transmission warning light symbol? ›

Transmission Warning Light

When this red or yellow transmission warning symbol is illuminated, your car is alerting you that your transmission is overheating. If this warning light turns on, you should immediately stop your vehicle and turn it off when it's safe to do so.

What are the two most important gauges on the dashboard? ›

While many drivers would consider the two most important gauges on the vehicle the speedometer and fuel gauge, each vehicle is equipped with other gauges that provide useful information on the vehicle's condition while on the road.

What is a master warning light? ›

The Master Warning light is used to notify you of a potential problem with one or more of your vehicle's advanced systems. It will be accompanied by a message in your car's vehicle information display with a more detailed system message.

What battery terminal do you disconnect to reset? ›

Here's how to reset a check engine light manually:
  1. Turn off the ignition. ...
  2. Identify the negative battery terminal, which is usually marked by a black cap and a negative (–) symbol. ...
  3. Use a wrench to loosen the negative terminal bolt, and then take the negative cable and hold it aside.

Can AutoZone clear codes? ›

Can AutoZone reset your car? Yes they can make the light go out temporarily. They do it by using a scanner to erase the readiness monitors. Then until the readiness monitors reset (might be days, weeks or months) the light will stay off.

Can low battery cause dash lights? ›

A leading sign of a weak battery is the sudden and spontaneous illumination of multiple warning lights and warning messages in your instrument cluster, possibly accompanied by the non-functionality of various systems including the cruise control, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and more.

What does it mean when a warning light stays on after starting the vehicle? ›

If the light stays on after starting or illuminates during a journey, stop immediately, switch off the engine and check the engine oil level. If low, add oil bringing it up to proper levels right away. If the oil level is correct and the light stays on, do not start the engine and seek assistance.

Can I use Windex to clean my dashboard? ›

Windex is a great cleaner for inside your car, getting rid of built-up gunk on windows, dashboards, steering wheel, and upholstery. It's non-greasy, so it won't leave everything slippery nor damage the upholstery and faux wood surfaces.

Can wd40 clean dashboard? ›

Maintain Your Car Dashboard

Using a handy can of WD-40 Specialist® Motorbike Silicone Shine , spray all of your dashboard liberally with the handy solution. Work the product in using a clean microfibre cloth, and buff away any remaining residue.

Do you have to manually reset check engine light? ›

“So what” you might think, “I'll clear the check engine light and then drive around so the monitors will run, then I'll go for a smog test.” Well, if nothing is wrong with the car, this will work. However, if the monitor runs and passes, the check engine light will turn off by itself. No reset is required.

How can I check my engine code without a code reader? ›

How to Read Car Engine Codes without a Reader
  1. Step 1: Press and hold the odometer's reset button.
  2. Step 2: While holding the odometer's reset button, press and hold the odometer's trip button.
  3. Step 3: While holding down both the odometer's trip and reset buttons, turn the ignition switch to “on”
Dec 5, 2022

How do you reset the check engine light with a gas pedal? ›

Fully depress the accelerator pedal and keep it for more than 10 seconds. Fully release the accelerator pedal (The CEL light will continue to blink). Turn ignition switch to On position and now you can start the car. The CEL light should be gone.

How do I get rid of the yellow triangle with an exclamation point? ›

It means that there is a charging problem or a problem with the battery charge being too low. Try removing the battery and then reinserting it and check if that resolves the problem.

How do you fix a yellow triangle with an exclamation point? ›

Click the Start Menu icon and select PC Settings. Select Update & Security and then click the Troubleshoot option on the left. Click the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter on the right-hand side. Finally, press the Run the troubleshooter button and follow the on-screen instructions.

Can I drive with a yellow warning light? ›

Red warning lights mean you should stop the car as soon as it is safe. Yellow warning lights mean that action is required.

What is the orange exclamation point on my dashboard? ›

You might notice the orange exclamation mark on your dashboard. It's a common symbol often surrounded by a tire icon. If you see this symbol, pay attention. It's an alert that one of your tires has dropped below 75% of its recommended pressure.

How far can you drive with warning light on? ›

In some modern cars there will be an estimated range of what is left in your tank. However, this is just an estimate and will be entirely dependent on road conditions and driving style. As a rough guide you should assume that once the fuel warning light shows you have between 20-50 miles.

What dash light looks like a fish? ›

The tire pressure light looks like a fish bowl with an exclamation point in the center. This light commonly comes on during the winter months when the temperature drops and the air pressure decreases.

What does the triangle with exclamation point mean? ›

Your phone may display an exclamation mark in a triangle on a black screen. This screen is called recovery mode, and is usually accessed from the bootloader menu on an Android device. The most common cause of issues with recovery mode is when the device has been rooted; or having installed a custom ROM.

Can you drive with orange exclamation? ›

Modern cars come with tire pressure monitoring systems and the little exclamation point inside of a half-circle merely means one or more of your tires have low pressure. If you see this sign don't freak out. Instead, find a safe place to stop and inspect your tires.

Can you drive with an orange warning light? ›

Amber engine management light

This is an advisory warning, which indicates an engine issue that affects emissions. In most cases, you'll be able to continue your journey, but you should get your car examined as soon as possible.

Why you shouldn't ignore your warning lights? ›

They are warning lights meant to indicate when something in your vehicle is not as it should be. As a vehicle owner, it is your responsibility to address the issue immediately. Ignoring warning lights can lead to serious vehicle issues and expensive repairs. They may also compromise your safety on roads.

What is the alternator warning light? ›

The alternator light will either be a battery or an ALT, both can indicate that your alternator isn't working properly. Without an alternator, your battery isn't going to stay charged. During a ride in your vehicle, your alternator recycles energy and charges up your battery.

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