check engine light JEEP CHEROKEE 2015 KL / 5.G Owners Manual

The system uses a Key Fob with a factory-mated Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, a Keyless Ignition Node
(KIN) and a RF receiver to prevent unauthorized vehicle
operation. Therefore, only Key Fobs that are pro-
grammed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate
the vehicle. The system will not allow the engine to crank
if an invalid Key Fob.
After placing the ignition to the ON/RUN position, the
Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a
bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it
indicates that there is a problem with the system. In
addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check,
it indicates that someone used an invalid Key Fob to start
the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the
engine being shut off after two seconds.
If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal
vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10
seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in the system.
Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as
possible by an authorized dealer.
CAUTION!
•Do not make modifications or alterations to the
immobilizer system. Modifications or alterations to
the immobilization system may result in a loss of
security protection.
•The Sentry Key® Immobilizer system is not com-
patible with some aftermarket remote starting sys-
tems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle
starting problems and loss of security protection.
All of the Key Fobs provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.
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THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

The ORC contains a backup power supply system that
may deploy the air bags even if the battery loses power or
it becomes disconnected prior to deployment.
The ORC turns on the Air Bag Warning Light in the
instrument panel for approximately four to eight seconds
for a self-check when the ignition switch is first turned to
the ON/RUN position. After the self-check, the Air Bag
Warning Light will turn off. If the ORC detects a mal-
function in any part of the system, it turns on the Air Bag
Warning Light, either momentarily or continuously. A
single chime will sound to alert you if the light comes on
again after initial startup.
The ORC also includes diagnostics that will illuminate
the instrument panel Air Bag Warning Light if a malfunc-
tion is detected that could affect the air bag system. The
diagnostics also record the nature of the malfunction.
While the air bag system is designed to be maintenance
free, if any of the following occurs, have an authorized
dealer service the air bag system immediately.
•The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on during
the four to eight seconds when the ignition switch is
first turned to the ON/RUN position.
•The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after the four to
eight-second interval.
•The Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently or
remains on while driving.
NOTE:If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine
related gauges are not working, the Occupant Restraint
Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. In this condition
the air bags may not be ready to inflate for your protec-
tion. Have an authorized dealer service the air bag
system immediately.
88 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!(Continued)
•If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running, adjust your heating or cooling
controls to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the
blower at high speed.
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into
the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust
system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the exhaust
system, when 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 com-
plete 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 lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle
Seat Belts
Inspect the seat belt system periodically, checking for
cuts, frays, and loose parts. Damaged parts must be
replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the
system.
Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a
collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after
a collision if they have been damaged (i.e., bent retractor,
torn webbing, etc.). If there is any question regarding seat
belt or retractor condition, replace the seat belt.
Air Bag Warning Light
The light should come on and remain on for
four to eight seconds as a bulb check when the
ignition switch is first turned ON. If the light is
11 8 T H I N G S TO K N O W B E F O R E S TA R T I N G Y O U R V E H I C L E

WARNING!(Continued)
Vehicle”. Follow the warnings under the Cooling
System Pressure Cap paragraph.
18. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of
an Onboard Diagnostic system called OBD II that
monitors engine and automatic transmission con-
trol systems. The light will illuminate 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.
CAUTION!
Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (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.
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, wood, cardboard, etc. This could result
in death or serious injury to the driver, occupants or
others.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 339

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
a collision. 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/RUN position. The light should illuminate for ap-
proximately 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/RUN posi-
tion.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is
applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light
This light warns of an overheated engine condi-
tion. As temperatures rise and the gauge ap-
proachesH,this indicator will illuminate and a single
chime will sound after reaching a set threshold.
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 ve-
hicle. 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 more information.
342 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

•Door Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate that one
or more doors may be ajar.
•Liftgate Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate that
liftgate may be ajar.
•Oil Pressure Warning Light
This 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 when this light
turns on.
Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is cor-
rected. This light does not show how much oil is in
the engine. The engine oil level must be checked
under the hood.
•Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical
charging system. 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 prob-
lem with the charging system. Obtain SERVICE IM-
MEDIATELY. See an authorized dealer.
If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump Starting
Procedures” in “What To Do In Emergencies”.
348 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

•Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem with
the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) sys-
tem. 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.
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. You may experience
reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle or en-
gine stall and your vehicle may require towing.
•Oil Temperature Warning Light
This telltale indicates engine oil tempera-
ture is high. If the light turns on while
driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the
engine as soon as possible.
•Secondary Air Bag Warning Light
If the light turns on while driving, have the
system inspected at an authorized dealer as
soon as possible. Refer to “Occupant Re-
straints” in “Things To Know Before Start-
ing Your Vehicle” for further information.
14. 4WD LOW Indicator Light — If Equipped
This light alerts the driver that the vehicle is in the
four-wheel drive LOW mode. The front and rear drive-
shafts are mechanically locked together forcing the front
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 349

•Door Ajar
This light will turn on to indicate that one or
more doors may be ajar.
•Oil Pressure Warning Light
This telltale indicates low engine oil pressure. If
the light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut
off the engine as soon as possible. A chime will sound
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.
•Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. 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.
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 autho-
rized dealer for service as soon as possible. If the light is
flashing when the engine is running, immediate service is
required. You may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your vehicle may
require towing.
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UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 353

•Electric Power Steering Malfunction Warning Light
This telltale is on when the Electric Power
Steering is not operating and needs service.
•Air Bag Warning Light
This light will turn on for four to eight seconds
as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned to ON/RUN. If the light is either not on
during starting, stays on, or turns on while
driving, 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.
•Oil Temperature Warning Light
This telltale indicates engine oil temperature is
high. If the light turns on while driving, stop
the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as
possible.
•Liftgate Open Warning Light
This telltale is on when the Trailer Brake has
been disconnected.
EVIC Yellow Telltales
This area will show reconfigurable yellow caution tell-
tales. These telltales include:
•Forward Collision Telltale
This telltale will turn on warn you of a possible
collision with the vehicle in front of you.
•Service Stop/Start System Telltale — If Equipped
This telltale will turn on to indicate the Stop/
Start system is not functioning properly and
service is required.
354 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

•Oil Pressure Warning Light
This 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 cor-
rected. This light does not show how much oil is in
the engine. The engine oil level must be checked
under the hood.
•Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical
charging system. 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 prob-
lem with the charging system. Obtain SERVICE IM-
MEDIATELY. See an authorized dealer.
If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump Starting
Procedures” in “What To Do In Emergencies”.
•Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
This light informs you of a problem with
the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) sys-
tem. 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.
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.
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