check engine light DODGE NEON 2005 2.G Owners Manual

Key-In-Ignition Reminder
Opening the driver's door when the key is in the ignition
switch, sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key.
NOTE:With the driver's door open, and the key in the
ignition, the power door locks will not lock via the
interior door lock switch.
SENTRY KEY
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho-
rized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine.
The system will shut the engine off after 2 seconds of
running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This
system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic
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) secondsimmediately 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:
²
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.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11
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INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTIONS
1. Front Fog Light Indicator Ð If Equipped
This light shows when the front fog lights are
ON. (See page 62 for more information.)
2. Brake System Warning Light
This light monitors various brake functions,
including brake fluid level and parking
brake application. If the brake light comes
on, it may indicate that the parking brake is
applied, or there is a low brake fluid level. On vehicles
equipped with Anti-lock brakes (ABS), it may also
indicate an ABS malfunction that could lead to re-
duced braking performance.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the brake light on is danger-
ous. A significant decrease in braking performance
or vehicle stability during braking may occur. It will
take you longer to stop the vehicle or will make your
vehicle harder to control. You could have an acci-
dent. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
The operation of the Brake Warning light can be checked
by turning the ignition key from the OFF to the ON
position. The light should illuminate for three seconds, or
until the engine is started, whichever comes first. The
light should then go out unless the parking brake is
applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not
illuminate, have the light inspected and serviced as soon
as possible.
The light will also come on when the parking brake is
applied with the ignition in the ON position.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is
on. It does not show the degree of brake application.
If the parking brake is off and the light remains on, have
the brake system inspected as soon as possible.
3. Anti-Lock Warning Light (ABS) Ð If Equipped
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS) described elsewhere in this manual. This
light will come on when the ignition key is turned to
the ON position and may stay on for as long as four
seconds.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 77
4

If the ABS light remains on or comes on during 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 provided that 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 benefit of Anti-Lock
Brakes.
The warning light should be checked frequently to assure
that it is operating properly. Turn the ignition key to a
point midway between ON and START. The light should
come on. If the light does not come on, have the system
checked by an authorized dealer.
4. Speedometer
Indicates vehicle speed.
5. Turn Signal Indicators
The arrows will flash in unison with the exterior
turn signal, when using the turn signal lever. (See
page 62 for more information.)6. High Beam Indicator
This light shows that the headlights are on high
beam. Pull the turn signal lever toward the
steering wheel to switch the headlights from high or
low beam.
7. Tachometer Ð If Equipped
The white area of the scale shows the permissible engine
revolutions-per-minute (rpm x 1000) for each gear range.
Before reaching the red area, ease up on the accelerator to
prevent engine damage.
8. Oil Pressure Light
Shows low engine oil pressure. The light will
come on and remain on when the ignition key is
turned from the OFF to the ON position, and the light
will turn off after the engine is started. If the bulb does
not come on during starting, have the system checked
by an authorized dealer.
If the light comes on and remains on while driving, stop
the vehicle and shut off the engine. DO NOT OPERATE
THE VEHICLE UNTIL THE CAUSE IS CORRECTED.
78 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

The light does not show the quantity of oil in the engine.
This can be determined using the procedure shown in
Section 7. (See page 169 for more information.)
9. Seat Belt Reminder Light
When the ignition key is first turned on, this
light will come on for about six seconds. A
chime will sound if you have not pulled the
shoulder belt out of the retractor. This is a reminder to
ªbuckle upº. If you do not buckle up, the light will
remain on.
10. Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical
charging system. The light should come on
briefly when the ignition is first turned on and remain
on briefly as a bulb check. If the light stays on or
comes on while driving, it means that there is a
problem with the charging system. Obtain SERVICE
IMMEDIATELY.
11. Airbag Light
The light comes on and remains on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition
switch is first turned ON. If the light does notcome on during starting, stays on, or comes on while
driving, have the system checked by an authorized
dealer. (See page 39 for more information.)
12. Theft Alarm Light Ð If Equipped
This light will flash rapidly for several seconds when the
alarm system is arming. The light will begin to flash
slowly indicating that the system is armed. (See page 22
for more information.)
13. Fuel Door Reminder
This symbol is a reminder that the Fuel Filler Door is
located on the passenger's side of the vehicle.
14. Fuel Gauge
When the ignition key is in the ON position, the
pointer will show the level of fuel remaining in
the fuel tank.
15. Low Fuel Light Ð If Equipped
NOTE:
The Low Fuel Light and Chime feature only
functions on vehicles equipped with a tachometer.
When the fuel level drops to about 1/8 tank, the
fuel symbol will light and a single chime will
sound. The light will remain on until fuel is
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 79
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added. If the fuel level drops to about 1/2 gallon, the
fuel symbol will begin to flash and the chime will
sound several times.
16. Malfunction Indicator Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic
system called OBD that monitors emissions,
engine, and automatic transmission control
systems. The light will illuminate briefly when the key
is in the ON/RUN position before engine start. If the
bulb does not come on when turning the key from
OFF to ON/RUN, 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.
If the Malfunction Indicator Light flashes when the
engine is running, serious conditions may exist that
could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalyticconverter damage. The vehicle should be serviced as
soon as possible if this occurs. (See page 166 for more
information.)
17. Odometer/Trip Odometer Reset Knob
Press this knob to switch between the odometer and trip
odometer. While the trip odometer is being displayed,
press and hold this knob for a few seconds to reset the
trip odometer to zero miles/kilometers.
18. Odometer/Trip Odometer
Shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven.
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. There-
fore, if the odometer reading changes during repair or
replacement, be sure to keep a record of the reading
before and after the service so the correct mileage can be
determined.
80 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Windshield Washer Aiming
To change the aim of the windshield washers, place a
safety pin into the nozzle opening and move the nozzle
slightly. Continue making slight adjustments until you
obtain the desired pattern.
Windshield Washer Reservoir
The washer fluid reservoir 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)
Exhaust System
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system;
or if exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle; or
when the underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged;have a competent mechanic inspect the complete exhaust
system and adjacent body areas for broken, damaged,
deteriorated, or mispositioned parts. Open seams or
loose connections could permit exhaust fumes to seep
into the passenger compartment. In addition, inspect the
exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised for lubri-
cation or oil change. Replace as required.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon
monoxide which is colorless and odorless. Breathing
it can make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you. Follow the above precautions to keep
your exhaust system as safe as possible.
180 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

²Check the fluid levels of coolant reservoir, brake
master cylinder, power steering and transaxle and add
as needed.
²Check all lights and all other electrical items for correct
operation.
²Check rubber seals on each side of the radiator for
proper fit.
At Each Oil Change
²
Change the engine oil filter.
²Inspect the exhaust system.
²Inspect the brake hoses.
²Inspect the CV joints and front suspension compo-
nents.
²Check the automatic transaxle fluid level.
²Check the manual transaxle fluid level and fill plug
condition.
²Check the coolant level, hoses, and clamps.
208 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES
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ABS (Anti-Lock Brake) System............. 123
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze)......... 183
Adding Fuel.......................... 144
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . 175
Air Conditioning....................103,177
Air Conditioning Controls................ 103
Air Conditioning Refrigerant.............. 177
Air Conditioning System................. 177
Air Pressure, Tires...................... 133
Airbag................................ 31
Airbag Deployment...................... 36
Airbag Light.......................39,47,79
Airbag Maintenance...................... 38
Airbag, Side........................... 37
Alarm, Panic........................... 20
Alarm System........................22,79
Alignment and Balance.................. 139
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle............ 6
Antenna, Satellite Radio................... 96
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant).........182,202,203
Capacities........................... 202
Disposal............................ 184
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)............. 123Anti-Lock Warning Light.................. 77
Anti-Theft Security Alarm................. 22
Appearance Care....................... 191
Arming Theft System..................... 22
Ashtrays and Lighter..................... 70
Automatic Door Locks.................... 16
Automatic Transaxle........... 9,114,116,117,188
Fluid and Filter Changes................ 190
Fluid Level Check..................... 188
Interlock System....................14,116
Reset Mode.......................... 117
Selection Of Lubricant................. 188
Shifting............................. 117
Special Additives..................... 190
Ball Joints............................ 178
Battery............................... 176
Keyless Transmitter Replacement.......... 21
Belts, Drive........................... 173
Belts, Engine.......................... 174
Body Mechanism Lubrication.............. 178
B-Pillar Location....................... 128
Brake Fluid........................... 203
234 INDEX

Brake, Parking......................... 121
Brake System.......................122,186
Anti-Lock........................... 123
Hoses.............................. 186
Master Cylinder...................... 187
Parking............................ 121
Warning Light........................ 77
Brakes............................122,186
Brake/Transmission Interlock.............. 116
Break-In Recommendations, New Vehicle...... 46
Bulb Replacement...................198,199
Calibration, Compass..................... 54
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant)...... 202
Capacities, Fluid....................... 202
Caps, Filler
Fuel............................... 144
Oil (Engine)......................... 172
Carbon Monoxide Warning............... 144
Cassette Tape and Player Maintenance........ 97
Cassette Tape Player...................83,86
Catalytic Converter..................... 173
Caution, Exhaust Gas..................... 46CD Changer.......................87,92,98
CD Player...........................88,90
CD Player Maintenance.................. 100
Cellular Phone......................... 101
Center High Mounted Stop Light........... 201
Central Door Locks...................... 15
Central Locking......................... 15
Chains, Tire........................... 139
Changing A Flat Tire.................... 152
Charging System Light................... 79
Chart, Tire Sizing....................... 125
Check Engine Light
(Malfunction Indicator Light).............. 167
Child Restraint......................... 39
Child Safety Locks....................... 17
Circuit Breakers.....................195,197
Cleaning
Glass.............................. 194
Headlights.......................... 194
Climate Control........................ 101
Clock................................. 82
Compact Disc Changer................... 98
Compact Disc Maintenance............... 100
INDEX 235
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Emergency, In Case of
Jacking............................. 152
Jump Starting........................ 155
Towing............................. 160
Emergency Trunk Release................. 18
Emission Control System Maintenance....167,206
Engine............................... 165
Break-In Recommendations............... 46
Checking Oil Level.................... 169
Compartment........................ 165
Cooling............................ 181
Exhaust Gas Caution.................. 144
Jump Starting........................ 155
Oil ..........................169,202,203
Oil Change Interval................... 170
Oil Filler Cap........................ 172
Oil Filter............................ 203
Oil Selection......................... 171
Oil Synthetic......................... 172
Overheating......................... 150
Temperature Gauge.................... 81
Timing Belt.......................... 174
Exhaust Gas Caution..................46,144Exhaust Pipes......................... 180
Exhaust System........................ 180
Extender, Seat Belt....................... 31
Filters
Air Cleaner.......................... 175
Automatic Transaxle................... 190
Engine Fuel......................... 175
Engine Oil.......................173,203
Flashers
Hazard Warning...................... 150
Flooded Engine Starting.................. 115
Fluid, Brake........................... 203
Fluid Capacities........................ 202
Fluid Leaks............................ 47
Fluid Level Checks
Automatic Transaxle................... 188
Manual Transaxle..................... 190
Fluids............................... 203
Fog Lights...........................62,77
Folding Rear Seat....................... 57
Freeing A Stuck Vehicle.................. 159
Front Suspension Ball Joints............... 178
INDEX 237
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