instrument cluster DODGE RAM 2500 DIESEL 2005 3.G Owners Manual

TheSecurity Light, located in the instrument cluster,
will illuminate for about 2 seconds when the ignition
switch is first turned to the ON position. If the vehicle
electronics do not receive a valid signal from the ignition
key, theSecurity Lightwill flash continuously to signal
that the vehicle has been immobilized. If theSecurity
Lightremains on during vehicle operation, it indicates a
fault in the system electronics. If this option was ordered,
all of the keys provided with your new vehicle have been
programmed to the vehicle electronics.
Replacement Keys
NOTE:Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it cannot
be programmed to any other vehicle.At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN. This number is required for dealer
replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may be per-
formed at an authorized dealer or by using the Customer
Key Programming procedure. This procedure consists of
programming a blank key to the vehicle electronics. A
blank key is one which has never been programmed and
needs to be cut.
NOTE:When having the Sentry Key System serviced,
bring all vehicle keys to the dealer.
12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED
This system monitors the vehicle doors and ignition for
unauthorized operation. When the alarm is activated, the
system provides both audible and visual signals. For the
first 3 minutes the horn will sound and the headlights
and security telltale will flash repeatedly. For an addi-
tional 15 minutes only the headlights and security telltale
will flash. The engine will run only if a valid Sentry Key
is used to start the vehicle. Use of the Sentry Key will
disable the alarm.
Rearming of the System:
The security system will rearm itself after the 15 addi-
tional minutes of headlights and security telltale flashing,
if the system has not been disabled. If the condition
which initiated the alarm is still present, the system will
ignore that condition and monitor the remaining doors
and ignition.
To Set the Alarm:
The alarm will set when you use the power door locks,
turn the key in the driver’s door lock cylinder, or use the
Keyless Entry transmitter to lock the doors. After all the
doors are locked and closed the SECURITY light in the
instrument cluster will flash rapidly to signal that the
system is arming. The security light in the instrument
panel cluster will flash rapidly for about 16 seconds to
indicate that the alarm is being set. After the alarm is set,
the security light will flash at a slower rate to indicate
that the system is armed.
NOTE:If the SECURITY light stays on continuously
during vehicle operation, have the system checked by
your dealer.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29
2

•If it detects a malfunction in any part of the
system, it turns on the light either momen-
tarily or continuously. The instrument cluster
will flash the seat belt indicator if it detects a fault with
the airbag indicator.
WARNING!
Ignoring the AIR BAG light in your instrument
panel could mean you won’t have the airbags to
protect you in a collision. If the light does not come
on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes
on as you drive, have the airbag system checked
right away.
•When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the airbags, it signals the inflator units. A
large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate
the airbags. The airbag covers separate and fold out of
the way as the airbags inflate to their full size. The
airbags fully inflate in milliseconds. This is less time
than it takes you to blink your eyes. The airbags then
quickly deflate while helping to restrain the driver and
front passenger. The driver’s front airbag deflates
through vents towards the instrument panel. The
passenger’s front airbag is deflated through vent holes
in the sides of the airbag. In this way the airbags do
not interfere with your control of the vehicle.
•The knee impact bolsters help protect the knees and
position you for the best interaction with the front
airbag.
50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Headlamp Delay — If Equipped
To aid in your exit, your vehicle, if equipped, can be
programmed by your dealer with a headlamp delay that
will leave the headlamps on for 0, 30, 60, or 90 seconds.
This delay is initiated when the ignition is turned OFF
while the headlamp switch is on, and then the headlamp
switch is cycled off. The headlamps will remain on for 60
seconds. Headlamp delay can be cancelled by either
turning the headlamp switch ON then OFF or by turning
the ignition ON.
Headlights, Parking Lights, Panel Lights
When the headlight switch is rotated to the first
position, the parking lights, taillights, side marker
lights, license plate light and instrument panel
lights are all turned on. Rotating the headlight switch to
the first position will also turn on the cab top clearance
lights, flare lights, and tailgate lights if the vehicle is
equipped with these lights. The headlights will turn ON
when the switch is rotated to the second position. TheLAMP OUTindicator will be illuminated in the instru-
ment cluster if a defective bulb or wiring circuit is
detected for the headlamp system.
Your vehicle is equipped with plastic headlight lenses
that are lighter and less susceptible to stone breakage
than glass headlights.
116 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CARGO LIGHT
The cargo lights are turned on by rotating the dimmer
control to the optional fully upward position. The cargo
lights will also turn on for 30 seconds when a key fob
Unlock is pressed, as part of the illuminated entry
feature.
MULTIFUNCTION CONTROL LEVER
The multifunction control lever is located on the left side
of the steering column.
Turn Signals
Move the lever up or down to signal a right-hand or
left-hand turn.
The arrow on either side of the instrument cluster flashes
to indicate the direction of the turn, and proper operation
of the front and rear turn signal lights. If a defective bulb
or wiring circuit is detected for the turn signal system, the
arrow indicators will flash at a faster rate. Also, the
LAMP OUTindicator in the instrument cluster will beilluminated and a chime will be heard. If an indicator
fails to light when the lever is moved, it would suggest
that the switch or indicator lamp is defective.
You can signal a lane change by moving the lever
partially up or down.
118 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CAUTION!
Do not place any article under the adjustable pedals
or impede its ability to move as it may cause damage
to the pedal controls. Pedal travel may become
limited if movement is stopped by an obstruction in
the adjustable pedal’s path.
ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL — IF EQUIPPED
When engaged, this device takes over accelerator opera-
tion at speeds greater than 35 mph (56 km/h). The
controls are mounted on the steering wheel.
To Activate
Push the ON/OFF button to the ON position. An indi-
cator light in the instrument cluster illuminates when the
system is on.
124 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
CONTENTS

Instruments And Controls.................160

Instrument Cluster......................161

Instrument Cluster Description.............162

Electronic Digital Clock..................170
▫Clock Setting Procedure.................170

Sales Code RBB—AM/FM Stereo Radio With
Cassette Tape Player And CD Changer
Capability............................170
▫Radio Operation......................171
▫Mode Button........................173▫Scan Button (Radio Mode)...............173
▫Cassette Player Features................173
▫CD Changer Control Capability — If
Equipped...........................175

Sales Code RAZ—AM/ FM Stereo Radio With
Cassette Tape Player, CD Player And CD
Changer Controls.......................177
▫Operating Instructions — Radio...........177
▫Power Switch, Volume Control............177
▫Seek Button (Radio Mode)...............1774

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 161
4

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DESCRIPTION
1. Malfunction Indicator Light
This light is part of an onboard diagnostic system
which monitors the emissions and engine control
system. If the vehicle is ready for emissions
testing the light will come on when the ignition is first
turned on and remain on, as a bulb check, until the
engine is started. If the vehicle is not ready for emissions
testing the light will come on when the ignition is first
turned on and remain on for 15 seconds, then blink for 5
seconds, and remain on until the vehicle is started. If the
bulb does not come on during starting, have the condi-
tion investigated promptly.
If this light comes on and remains on while driving, it
suggests a potential engine control problem and the need
for system service.Although your vehicle will usually be drivable and not
need towing, see your dealer for service as soon as
possible.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause
damage to the engine 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.
2. Voltage Gauge
When the engine is running, the gauge indicates
the electrical system voltage. The pointer should
stay within the normal range if the battery is charged. If
162 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

the pointer moves to either extreme left or right and
remains there during normal driving, the electrical sys-
tem should be serviced.
NOTE:If the gauge pointer moves to either extreme of
the gauge, the “Check Gages” indicator will illuminate
and a single chime will sound.
3. Turn Signal Indicators
Lights in instrument cluster flash when outside turn
signals are operating. (See page 118 for more informa-
tion.)
4. Tachometer
The tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per
minute.CAUTION!
Do not operate the engine with the tachometer
pointer at high rpm for extended periods. Engine
damage may occur.
5. Airbag Indicator Light
The indicator lights and remains lit for 6 to 8 seconds
when the ignition is first turned on. If the light stays on,
flickers or comes on while driving, have the airbag
system checked by an authorized dealer.
6. High Beam Indicator
This indicator shows that headlights are on high
beam.
7. 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
UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 163
4