Some lights on the 2017 Dodge Challenger's dashboard come on to show that everything's working fine, while others act as urgent warning signs that demand the help of a certified Dodge service center.
In this 2017 Dodge Challenger Dashboard Light Guide, we'll take a closer look at the different lights and indicators that could light up in your Dodge Challenger, and we'll review critical next steps that should be taken in order to make sure you get your vehicle the attention it needs.
Consult the following quick light guide, and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the service experts at Freehold Dodge, your trusted Dodge dealer serving Monroe Township, Farmingdale, and Asbury Park.
Dodge Challenger Dashboard Lights: A to Z
Each light entry below is listed in alphabetical order, and includes an important dashboard light, a picture of its symbol, and an explanation of what to do when it appears on your dash.
Air Bag Warning Light
What It Means
When you start up your Dodge Challenger, you'll see this light (among several others) briefly illuminate for a few seconds and then go out. If the Air Bag Warning Light stays on during startup or appears while driving, issuing a single chime and remaining lit, there's an issue with the vehicle's air bags. Since the air bags are a critical crash protection mechanism in your Challenger, it's important that you get the system inspected by a certified Dodge dealer ASAP.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Indicator Light
What It Means
The ABS Indicator Light will flash for a few seconds when you first turn the key in your Dodge Challenger to the ON/RUN position. If this light remains on for any longer, it's representative of an error with the vehicle's Anti-Lock Brake System. When an error is detected, the anti-lock portion of the brake system will be turned off. If the Brake Warning Light isn't on in conjunction with the ABS Indicator Light, your brakes will continue to function normally. If you see the ABS Indicator come on and stay on, or don't see it appear briefly at startup, have a vehicle specialist inspect the system as soon as possible.
Battery Charge Warning Light
What It Means
Seeing the Battery Charge Warning Light on your dashboard indicates a problem with your Challenger's electrical charging system. It could have to do with the alternator, the battery, or an associated part, but chances are you'll want to get this looked at soon.
Brake Warning Light
What It Means
The Brake Warning Light speaks for the 2017 Challenger's entire braking system, so seeing it come on your dashboard could mean several things. You may simply need to disengage the parking brake before driving or add brake fluid. Check these areas first. If the light remains on, there could be an issue with the Brake Hydraulic System or the Brake Booster, a feature associated with the ABS. If there's an issue with the Brake Booster, you may feel a slight pulsing when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. If this light stays on, seek the assistance of a Dodge service provider.
Note: The Brake Warning Light could also come on if your brake pads are worn too thin and need replacing.
Check Engine Light
What It Means
The Check Engine Light speaks for the onboard computer that monitors your Challenger's engine and transmission control systems. It may appear while driving if your Dodge Challenger's gas cap is loose, if the fuel quality is poor, or to indicate an issue with the vehicle's emissions control system. If the light remains on, you should be able to drive your car normally, but make your next stop a certified Dodge service center.
Note: A flashing Check Engine Light means trouble under the hood. If flashing, get your vehicle serviced immediately.
Electronic Stability Control Indicator Light
What It Means
The Electronic Stability Control Indicator Light will come on if your Challenger senses that road conditions are slippery, indicating that the Electronic Stability Control system has been activated. You may continue driving, but do so with caution.
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light
What It Means
This warning light represents the Electronic Throttle Control system, and may come on and stay on or flash in the case of a serious problem. If you see this light, get to a safe area, put the vehicle in park, and try cycling the ignition. If the light remains lit, your Challenger will still be drivable, but make sure you head to a Dodge service center near you soon.
Engine Temperature Warning Light
What It Means
The Engine Temperature Warning Light indicates a dangerously hot engine environment. If you see this light come on and hear a chime, your Challenger has reached its maximum heat threshold. You'll hear the system chime for as long as the engine continues to overheat. Pull over as soon as it's safe to do so and turn off your Challenger to let the engine cool. Consult the "If Your Engine Overheats" section of your owner's manual for more information.
Seat Belt Warning Light
What It Means
When you turn the key in your Challenger's ignition to the ON/RUN position and your seat belt or the front passenger's seat belt is unbuckled, you'll see this warning light illuminate and hear it chime. Driving the vehicle without buckling your seat belt will cause the Seat Belt Reminder Light to continue to flash and chime or remain lit. Refer to the "Occupant Restraints" section of your owner's manual for more information.
Speed Limit Warning Light
What It Means
The 2017 Dodge Challenger's Speed Limit Warning Light will illuminate to remind you to keep your speed at a safe number when you accelerate above 75 MPH.
Certified Service for Your 2017 Challenger Is a Click or Call Away
As you can see, not all dashboard warning lights mean bad news for your Challenger. Knowing the differences between them will help you stay calm behind the wheel.
If you need to get in touch with a trusted Dodge service center in the Monroe Township, Farmingdale, or Asbury Park area, Freehold Dodge is your go-to provider. Our highly trained technicians can help you clear your dashboard quickly and get you back on the road sooner. Contact us for service today.