Dodge Charger (2019 year). Manual

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.

CAUTION!

Prolonged driving with the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) on could cause damage to the vehicle
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.

— Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Active

Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will indicate when the Electronic Sta-
bility Control system is Active. The “ESC Indicator Light”
in the instrument cluster will come on when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position, and
when ESC is activated. It should go out with the engine

running. If the “ESC Indicator Light” comes on continu-
ously with the engine running, a malfunction has been
detected in the ESC system. If this warning light remains
on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been
driven several miles (kilometers) at speeds greater than
30 mph (48 km/h), see an authorized dealer as soon as
possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.
• The “ESC Off Indicator Light” and the “ESC Indicator

Light” come on momentarily each time the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position.

• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds

when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop
when ESC becomes inactive.

• This light will come on when the vehicle is in an ESC

event.

— Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Off Warning

Light — If Equipped

This warning light indicates the Electronic Stability Control
(ESC) is off.

Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN, the ESC system will be on, even if it was turned off
previously.

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141

— Low Washer Fluid Warning Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate when the windshield
washer fluid is low.

— Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Warning Light

The warning light switches on and a message is displayed
to indicate that the tire pressure is lower than the recom-
mended value and/or that slow pressure loss is occurring.
In these cases, optimal tire duration and fuel consumption
may not be guaranteed.

Should one or more tires be in the condition mentioned
above, the display will show the indications corresponding
to each tire.

CAUTION!

Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires as
handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle,
avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a tire puncture
occurs, repair immediately using the dedicated tire
repair kit and contact an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation
pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the
vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your
vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated
on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for
those tires.)

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or
more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accord-
ingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and
inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a signifi-
cantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and
can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel
efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s
handling and stopping ability.

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire
maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to main-
tain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not
reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low
tire pressure telltale.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunc-
tion indicator to indicate when the system is not operating
properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined
with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects
a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one
minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This
sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups
as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction
indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to
detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including
the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels
on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning
properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after
replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels
allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

CAUTION!

The TPMS has been optimized for the original equip-
ment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and warning
have been established for the tire size equipped on
your vehicle. Undesirable system operation or sensor

(Continued)

CAUTION! (Continued)

damage may result when using replacement equip-
ment that is not of the same size, type, and/or style.
Aftermarket wheels can cause sensor damage. Using
aftermarket tire sealants may cause the Tire Pressure
Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor to become inoper-
able. After using an aftermarket tire sealant it is
recommended that you take your vehicle to your au-
thorized dealer to have your sensor function checked.

— Low Fuel Warning Light

When the fuel level reaches approximately 2 gal (7.5 L), this
light will turn on and a chime will sound. The light will
remain on until fuel is added.

— Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Warning Light

This warning light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS). The light will turn on when the ignition is placed in
the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position and may stay on
for as long as four seconds.

If the ABS light remains on or turns on while driving, then
the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not function-
ing and service is required as soon as possible. However,
the conventional brake system will continue to operate
normally, assuming the Brake Warning Light is not also on.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

143

If the ABS light does not turn on when the ignition is
placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/RUN position, have
the brake system inspected by an authorized dealer.

— Service Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Light — If Equipped

This warning light will illuminate to indicate a fault in the
Forward Collision Warning System. Contact an authorized
dealer for service.

Refer to

⬙Forward Collision Warning (FCW)⬙ in ⬙Safety⬙ for

further information.

— Service AWD Warning Light — If Equipped

This telltale will turn on to indicate the All Wheel Drive
(AWD) system is not functioning properly and that service
is required. Contact your authorized dealer.

— LaneSense Warning Light — If Equipped

The LaneSense system provides the driver with visual and
steering torque warnings when the vehicle starts to drift
out of its lane unintentionally without the use of a turn
signal.

• When the LaneSense system senses a lane drift situation,

the LaneSense indicator changes from solid green to
solid yellow.

• When the LaneSense system senses the lane has been

approached and is in a lane departure situation, the
LaneSense indicator changes from solid white/green to
flashing yellow.

• Refer to “LaneSense – If Equipped⬙ in “Starting And

Operating” for further information.

— Service LaneSense Warning Light — If

Equipped

This warning light will illuminate when the LaneSense
system is not operating and requires service. Please see an
authorized dealer.

— Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning

Light — If Equipped

This light will turn on when a ACC is not operating and
needs service. Refer to “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Yellow Indicator Lights

— Forward Collision Warning Off Indicator Light

— If Equipped

This indicator light illuminates to indicate that Forward
Collision Warning is off.

Green Indicator Lights

— ECO Mode Indicator Light

This light will turn on when ECO Mode is active.

— Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set With

Target Vehicle Light — If Equipped

This will display when the ACC is set and a target vehicle
is detected. Refer to “Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.

— Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Set Without

Target Vehicle Light — If Equipped

This will display the distance setting for the ACC system
when the system is engaged. Refer to “Adaptive Cruise
Control (ACC)” in “Starting And Operating” for further
information.

— Cruise Control Set Indicator Light — If

Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate when the cruise control
is set to the desired speed. Refer to “Speed Control” in
“Starting And Operating” for further information.

— Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped

This indicator light will illuminate when the front fog
lights are on.

— LaneSense Indicator Light — If Equipped

The LaneSense indicator light illuminates solid green when
both lane markings have been detected and the system is
“armed” and ready to provide visual and torque warnings
if an unintentional lane departure occurs.

Refer to “LaneSense — If Equipped

⬙ in “Starting And

Operating” for further information.

— Park/Headlight On Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate when the park lights or
headlights are turned on.

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145

— Sport Mode Indicator Light

This light will turn on when Sport Mode is active.

— Turn Signal Indicator Lights

When the left or right turn signal is activated, the turn
signal indicator will flash independently and the corre-
sponding exterior turn signal lamps will flash. Turn signals
can be activated when the multifunction lever is moved
down (left) or up (right).

NOTE:
• A continuous chime will sound if the vehicle is driven

more than 1 mile (1.6 km) with either turn signal on.

• Check for an inoperative outside light bulb if either

indicator flashes at a rapid rate.

White Indicator Lights

— Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Ready Light —

If Equipped

This light will turn on when Adaptive Cruise Control
(ACC) has been turned on, but is not set. Refer to “Adap-
tive Cruise Control (ACC)” in “Starting And Operating”
for further information.

— Cruise Control Ready Indicator

This indicator light will illuminate when the cruise control
is ready, but not set. Refer to “Speed Control” in “Starting
And Operating” for further information.

— LaneSense Indicator Light — If Equipped

When the LaneSense system is ON, but not armed, the
LaneSense indicator light illuminates solid white. This
occurs when only left, right, or neither lane line has been
detected. If a single lane line is detected, the system is
ready to provide only visual warnings if an unintentional
lane departure occurs on the detected lane line.

Refer to “LaneSense — If Equipped

⬙ in “Starting And

Operating” for further information.

Blue Indicator Lights

— High Beam Indicator Light

This indicator light will illuminate to indicate that the high
beam headlights are on. With the low beams activated,
push the multifunction lever forward (toward the front of
the vehicle) to turn on the high beams. Pull the multifunc-
tion lever rearward (toward the rear of the vehicle) to turn
off the high beams. If the high beams are off, pull the lever
toward you for a temporary high beam on,

⬙flash to pass⬙

scenario.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM — OBD II

Your vehicle is equipped with a sophisticated Onboard
Diagnostic system called OBD II. This system monitors the
performance of the emissions, engine, and transmission
control systems. When these systems are operating prop-
erly, your vehicle will provide excellent performance and
fuel economy, as well as engine emissions well within
current government regulations.

If any of these systems require service, the OBD II system
will turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). It will
also store diagnostic codes and other information to assist
your service technician in making repairs. Although your
vehicle will usually be drivable and not need towing, see
an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.

CAUTION!

• Prolonged driving with the MIL on could cause

further damage to the emission control system. It
could also affect fuel economy and driveability. The
vehicle must be serviced before any emissions tests
can be performed.

(Continued)

CAUTION! (Continued)

• If the MIL is flashing while the vehicle is running,

severe catalytic converter damage and power loss
will soon occur. Immediate service is required.

Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II) Cybersecurity

Your vehicle is required to have an Onboard Diagnostic
system (OBD II) and a connection port to allow access to
information related to the performance of your emissions
controls. Authorized service technicians may need to ac-
cess this information to assist with the diagnosis and
service of your vehicle and emissions system.

WARNING!

• ONLY an authorized service technician should connect

equipment to the OBD II connection port in order to
read the VIN, diagnose, or service your vehicle.

• If unauthorized equipment is connected to the OBD II

connection port, such as a driver-behavior tracking
device, it may:

• Be possible that vehicle systems, including safety

related systems, could be impaired or a loss of

(Continued)

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

147

WARNING! (Continued)

vehicle control could occur that may result in an
accident involving serious injury or death.

• Access, or allow others to access, information

stored in your vehicle systems, including personal
information.

For further information, refer to “Cybersecurity” in “Multi-
media”.

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
PROGRAMS

In some localities, it may be a legal requirement to pass an
inspection of your vehicle’s emissions control system.
Failure to pass could prevent vehicle registration.

For states that require an Inspection and Main-
tenance (I/M), this check verifies the “Malfunc-
tion Indicator Light (MIL)” is functioning and is
not on when the engine is running, and that the

OBD II system is ready for testing.

Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The OBD II
system may not be ready if your vehicle was recently
serviced, recently had a dead battery or a battery replace-

ment. If the OBD II system should be determined not ready
for the I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.

Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated test, which you
can use prior to going to the test station. To check if your
vehicle’s OBD II system is ready, you must do the following:

1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not

crank or start the engine.

NOTE:

If you crank or start the engine, you will have to

start this test over.

2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to the ON

position, you will see the “Malfunction Indicator Light
(MIL)” symbol come on as part of a normal bulb check.

3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will

happen:

• The MIL will flash for about ten seconds and then return

to being fully illuminated until you turn OFF the igni-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is not ready and you should not proceed
to the I/M station.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

• The MIL will not flash at all and will remain fully

illuminated until you place the ignition in the off posi-
tion or start the engine. This means that your vehicle’s
OBD II system is ready and you can proceed to the I/M
station.

If your OBD II system is not ready, you should see an
authorized dealer or repair facility. If your vehicle was
recently serviced or had a battery failure or replacement,
you may need to do nothing more than drive your vehicle
as you normally would in order for your OBD II system to
update. A recheck with the above test routine may then
indicate that the system is now ready.

Regardless of whether your vehicle’s OBD II system is ready
or not, if the MIL is illuminated during normal vehicle
operation you should have your vehicle serviced before
going to the I/M station. The I/M station can fail your
vehicle because the MIL is on with the engine running.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

149

SAFETY FEATURES

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) provides increased
vehicle stability and brake performance under most brak-
ing conditions. The system automatically prevents wheel
lock, and enhances vehicle control during braking.

The ABS performs a self-check cycle to ensure that the ABS
is working properly each time the vehicle is started and
driven. During this self-check, you may hear a slight
clicking sound as well as some related motor noises.

ABS is activated during braking when the system detects one
or more wheels begin to lock. Road conditions such as ice,
snow, gravel, bumps, railroad tracks, loose debris, or panic
stops may increase the likelihood of ABS activation(s).

You also may experience the following when ABS activates:
• The ABS motor noise (it may continue to run for a short

time after the stop).

• The clicking sound of solenoid valves.
• Brake pedal pulsations.
• A slight drop of the brake pedal at the end of the stop.

These are all normal characteristics of ABS.

WARNING!

• The ABS contains sophisticated electronic equip-

ment that may be susceptible to interference caused
by improperly installed or high output radio trans-
mitting equipment. This interference can cause pos-
sible loss of anti-lock braking capability. Installation
of such equipment should be performed by qualified
professionals.

• Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their

effectiveness and may lead to a collision. Pumping
makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly
on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or
stop.

• The ABS cannot prevent the natural laws of physics

from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase brak-
ing or steering efficiency beyond that afforded by the
condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the
traction afforded.

• The ABS cannot prevent collisions, including those

resulting from excessive speed in turns, following
another vehicle too closely, or hydroplaning.

(Continued)

152

SAFETY

WARNING! (Continued)

• The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must

never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner
that could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of
others.

ABS is designed to function with the OEM tires. Modifica-
tion may result in degraded ABS performance.

Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light

The yellow “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” will turn on
when the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode and
may stay on for as long as four seconds.

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” remains on or
comes 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 sys-
tem will continue to operate normally if the “Anti-Lock
Brake Warning Light” is on.

If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning Light” is on, the brake
system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the
benefits of anti-lock brakes. If the “Anti-Lock Brake Warning
Light” does not come on when the ignition is turned to the
ON/RUN mode, have the light repaired as soon as possible.

Electronic Brake Control System (EBC)

Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced Electronic
Brake Control system (EBC). This system includes Elec-
tronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist
(HSA), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability
Control (ESC), and Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM). These
systems work together to enhance both vehicle stability
and control in various driving conditions.

Your vehicle may also be equipped with Ready Alert
Braking (RAB), and Rain Brake Support (RBS).

Brake Assist System (BAS)

The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The sys-
tem detects an emergency braking situation by sensing the
rate and amount of brake application and then applies
optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help reduce
braking distances. The BAS complements the anti-lock
brake system (ABS). Applying the brakes very quickly
results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the benefit of
the system, you must apply continuous braking pressure
during the stopping sequence, (do not “pump” the brakes).

SAFETY

153

Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless braking is no
longer desired. Once the brake pedal is released, the BAS is
deactivated.

WARNING!

The Brake Assist System (BAS) cannot prevent the
natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. BAS cannot prevent collisions, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving
on very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. The capa-
bilities of a BAS-equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner, which
could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of
others.

Brake System Warning Light

The red “Brake System Warning Light” will turn on when
the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode and may stay
on for as long as four seconds.

If the “Brake System Warning Light” remains on or comes
on while driving, it indicates that the brake system is not

functioning properly and that immediate service is re-
quired. If the “Brake System Warning Light” does not come
on when the ignition is turned to the ON/RUN mode, have
the light repaired as soon as possible.

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

This function manages the distribution of the braking
torque between the front and rear axles by limiting braking
pressure to the rear axle. This is done to prevent overslip of
the rear wheels to avoid vehicle instability, and to prevent
the rear axle from entering ABS before the front axle.

Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)

This system anticipates the potential for wheel lift by
monitoring the driver’s steering wheel input and the speed
of the vehicle. When ERM determines that the rate of
change of the steering wheel angle and vehicle’s speed are
sufficient to potentially cause wheel lift, it then applies the
appropriate brake and may also reduce engine power to
lessen the chance that wheel lift will occur. ERM can only
reduce the chance of wheel lift occurring during severe or
evasive driving maneuvers; it cannot prevent wheel lift
due to other factors, such as road conditions, leaving the
roadway, or striking objects or other vehicles.

154

SAFETY

NOTE:

ERM is disabled anytime the ESC is in “Full Off”

mode (if equipped). Refer to “Electronic Stability Control
(ESC)” in this section for a complete explanation of the
available ESC modes.

WARNING!

Many factors, such as vehicle loading, road conditions
and driving conditions, influence the chance that
wheel lift or rollover may occur. ERM cannot prevent
all wheel lift or roll overs, especially those that involve
leaving the roadway or striking objects or other ve-
hicles. The capabilities of an ERM-equipped vehicle
must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the
safety of others.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

This system enhances directional control and stability of
the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESC corrects
for oversteering or understeering of the vehicle by apply-
ing the brake of the appropriate wheel(s) to assist in
counteracting the oversteer or understeer condition.
Engine power may also be reduced to help the vehicle
maintain the desired path.

ESC uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle
path intended by the driver and compares it to the actual
path of the vehicle. When the actual path does not match
the intended path, ESC applies the brake of the appropriate
wheel to assist in counteracting the oversteer or understeer
condition.
• Oversteer — when the vehicle is turning more than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

• Understeer — when the vehicle is turning less than

appropriate for the steering wheel position.

The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” located
in the instrument cluster will start to flash as soon as the
ESC system becomes active. The “ESC Activation/
Malfunction Indicator Light” also flashes when the TCS is
active. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” begins to flash during acceleration, ease up on the
accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible. Be sure to
adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road
conditions.

SAFETY

155

WARNING!

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot prevent the

natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. ESC cannot prevent accidents, including
those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving
on very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also
cannot prevent accidents resulting from loss of ve-
hicle control due to inappropriate driver input for the
conditions. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver
can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESC
equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reck-
less or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the
user’s safety or the safety of others.

• Vehicle modifications, or failure to properly main-

tain your vehicle, may change the handling charac-
teristics of your vehicle, and may negatively affect
the performance of the ESC system. Changes to the
steering system, suspension, braking system, tire
type and size or wheel size may adversely affect ESC
performance. Improperly inflated and unevenly
worn tires may also degrade ESC performance. Any

(Continued)

WARNING! (Continued)

vehicle modification or poor vehicle maintenance
that reduces the effectiveness of the ESC system can
increase the risk of loss of vehicle control, vehicle
rollover, personal injury and death.

ESC Operating Modes

NOTE:

Depending upon model and mode of operation, the

ESC system may have multiple operating modes.

ESC On

This is the normal operating mode for the ESC. Whenever
the vehicle is started, the ESC system will be in this mode.
This mode should be used for most driving conditions.
Alternate ESC modes should only be used for specific
reasons as noted in the following paragraphs.

Partial Off

The “Partial Off” mode is intended for times when a more
spirited driving experience is desired. This mode may
modify TCS and ESC thresholds for activation, which
allows for more wheel spin than normally allowed. This
mode may be useful if the vehicle becomes stuck.

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Dodge Charger (2019 year). Manual - part 9