check engine light DODGE CARAVAN 2006 4.G Owners Manual

chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that
have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start
and operate the vehicle.
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or
unlocked. During normal operation, the Theft Alarm/
Immobilizer Light will come on for three (3) seconds
immediately after the ignition switch is turned on for a
bulb check. Afterwards, if the bulb remains on, this
indicates a problem with the electronics.
If the bulb begins to flash after the bulb check, this
indicates that an invalid key has been used to start the
vehicle. Both of these conditions will result in the engine
being shut off after two (2) seconds of running.
Keep in mind that a key which has not been programmed
is also considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the
ignition lock cylinder for that vehicle.If the Theft Alarm/Immobilizer Light comes on during
normal vehicle operation (vehicle has been running for
longer than 10 seconds), a fault has been detected in the
electronics and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as
possible.
NOTE:
•The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with remote starting systems. Use of these systems
may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of
security protection.
•Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™additional Sentry Keys, or
any other transponder equipped components on the
same keychain willnotcause a key-related (transpon-
der) fault unless the additional part isphysically held
against the ignition keybeing used when starting the
vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics
will not cause interference with this system.
14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Airbag Light
The light should come on and remain on for 6
to 8 seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned ON. If the LED is not lit
during starting, have it checked. If the light
stays on or comes on while driving, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
Defroster
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield.
Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle
Tires
Examine tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objectslodged in the tread. Inspect tread and sidewall for cuts or
cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness, and tires (includ-
ing spare) for proper pressure.
Lights
Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights
while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high
beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.
Fluid Leaks
Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel,
engine coolant, oil or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or fuel, power steering fluid or brake
fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should be located and
corrected immediately.
84 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

10. Anti-Lock Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake Sys-
tem. 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. (See page 315 for
more information.)11. Tachometer—If Equipped
The red segments indicate the maximum permissible
engine revolutions-per-minute (r.p.m. x 1000) for each
gear range. Before reaching the red area, ease up on the
accelerator.
12. Voltage Light
This light monitors the electrical system voltage.
The light should turn on momentarily as the
engine is started. If the light stays on or turns on while
driving, it indicates a problem with the charging system.
Immediate service should be obtained.
13. Seat Belt Reminder Light
When the ignition switch is first turned ON, this
light will turn on for 5 to 8 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 seat belt remains unbuckled,
the Seat Belt Warning Light will flash or remain on
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 207
4

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 a service center if your
vehicle overheats. If you decide to look under the
hood yourself, see Section 7 of this manual. Follow
the warnings under the Cooling System Pressure
Cap paragraph.
17. Washer Fluid Light
This light turns on when the washer fluid level
falls below approximately 1/4 filled. The light will
remain on until fluid is added.
18. Transmission Range Indicator
This display indicator shows the automatic transaxle gear
selection.NOTE:You must apply the brakes before shifting from
Park.
19. Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light shows 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 4 minutes when this light turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected.
This light does not show how much oil is in the engine.
The engine oil level must be checked under the hood.
20. High Beam Light
This light shows that the headlights are on high
beam. Pull the turn signal lever towards the
steering wheel to switch the headlights from high or low
beam.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 209
4

21. Malfunction Indicator Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic system
called OBD that monitors engine and automatic
transmission control systems. The light will illu-
minate when the key is in the ON position before engine
start. If the bulb does not come 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 light 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.
The Malfunction Indicator Light flashes to alert to serious
conditions that could lead to immediate loss of power or
severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should be
serviced as soon as possible if this occurs. (See page 399
for more information.)22. Trac Off Indicator—If Equipped
This display indicator should illuminate for approxi-
mately four seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned ON.
The“TRAC OFF”Indicator will flash if the traction
control is in use.
The“TRAC OFF”Indicator will illuminate if:
•The Traction Control switch has been used to turn
the system OFF.
•There is a Traction Control System malfunction
•The system has been deactivated to prevent damage
to the brake system due to overheated brake tem-
peratures.
NOTE:Extended heavy use of Traction Control may
cause the system to deactivate and turn on the TRAC and
the OFF indicators located in the instrument cluster.
210 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Adding Washer Fluid
The fluid reservoir for the windshield washers and the
rear window washer is shared. It is located in the front of
the engine compartment on the passenger side and
should be checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fill
the reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radia-
tor antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds
to flush out the residual water.
The washer fluid reservoir will hold a full gallon of fluid
when the Low Washer Fluid Light illuminates.
Washer Fluid Reservoir
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 299
4

The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a
year, preferably in the fall and spring. Apply a small
amount of a high quality lubricant such as MoparLock
Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.
Windshield Wiper Blades
The rubber edges of the wiper blades and the windshield
should be cleaned periodically with a sponge or soft cloth
and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will remove accu-
mulations of salt or road film.
Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods
may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use
washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt
from a dry windshield.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from
the windshield. Keep the blade rubber out of contact with
petroleum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.
Windshield and Rear Window Washers
The fluid reservoir for the windshield washers and the
rear window washer is shared. It is located in the engine
compartment and should be checked for fluid level at
regular intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield
washer solvent (not radiator antifreeze) and operate the
system for a few seconds to flush out the residual water.
The washer fluid reservoir will hold a full gallon of fluid
when the Low Washer Fluid Light illuminates.
414 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

•Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
At Each Oil Change
•Change the engine oil filter.
•Inspect the exhaust system.
•Inspect the brake hoses.
•Inspect the CV joints and front suspension compo-
nents.
•Check the automatic transmission fluid level.
•Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
450 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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Caps, Filler
Fuel................................ 346
Oil (Engine).......................... 404
Radiator (Coolant Pressure)............... 418
Car Washes............................ 429
Carbon Monoxide Warning................. 345
Cargo Compartment
Luggage Carrier....................... 190
Cargo (Vehicle Loading)................... 189
Cassette Tape and Player Maintenance......... 272
Cassette Tape Player................214,234,238
Catalytic Converter...................... 407
Caution, Exhaust Gas..............37,83,345,415
CD (Compact Disc) Changer.....223,230,242,255,256
CD (Compact Disc)
Player..........220,224,228,234,240,244,247,251,254
CD (Compact Disc) Player Maintenance........ 273
Cellular Phone........................94,274
Center High Mounted Stop Light............ 442Center Lap Belts......................... 51
Chains, Tire............................ 339
Changing A Flat Tire..................... 368
Chart, Tire Sizing........................ 321
Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light).............210,399
Child Restraint.......................... 69
Child Restraint Tether Anchors............... 74
Child Safety Locks........................ 33
Child Seat............................69,76
Clean Air Gasoline....................... 342
Climate Control......................... 274
Clock................................ 212
Coat Hook............................ 189
Compact Disc (CD) Maintenance............. 273
Compact Disc (CD) Player...............214,220
Compact Spare Tire...................... 332
Compass.............................. 159
Compass Calibration..................... 159
484 INDEX

Temperature Gauge..................... 208
Exhaust Gas Caution..............37,83,345,415
Exhaust System......................... 415
Extender, Seat Belt........................ 53
Exterior Folding Mirrors................... 91
Filters
Air Cleaner.......................... 406
Air Conditioning....................296,411
Automatic Transaxle.................... 427
Engine Oil........................405,444
Engine Oil Disposal.................... 405
Flashers
Hazard Warning....................... 366
Turn Signal.....................205,439,441
Flat Tire Stowage........................ 377
Fluid Capacities......................... 443
Fluid Leaks............................. 84Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transmission................. 426
Brake............................... 423
Power Steering........................ 412
Fluids................................ 444
Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts.......... 444
Fog Light Service........................ 440
Fog Lights..........................146,440
Fold in Floor (Stown Go) Seating........... 123
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle................... 390
Fuel................................. 342
Adding............................. 346
Additives............................ 344
Clean Air............................ 342
Filler Cap (Gas Cap).................... 346
Gasoline............................ 342
Gauge.............................. 204
Hoses.............................. 424
Light............................... 204
INDEX 487
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