Ram 1500/2500/3500: 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 automatic transmission control systems. When these systems are operating properly, 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 your 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.
- If the MIL is flashing, while the engine is running, severe catalytic converter damage and power loss will soon occur. Immediate service is required.
Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message
If the vehicle diagnostic system
determines
that the fuel filler cap is loose, improperly
installed, or damaged, a loose gascap indicator
will display in the EVIC telltale display area.
Refer to "Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in "Understanding Your Instrument Panel" for further information.
Tighten the fuel filler cap properly and press the SELECT button to turn off the message. If the problem continues, the message will appear the next time the vehicle is started.
A loose, improperly installed, or damaged fuel filler cap may also turn on the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
READ NEXT:
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
Ins
Replacement Parts
Use of genuine MOPAR parts for normal/scheduled
maintenance and repairs is highly recommended to ensure
the designed performance. Damage or failures
caused by the use of non-MOPAR parts for maintenanc
Maintenance Procedures
The pages that follow contain the required maintenance
services determined by the engineers who designed your
vehicle.
Besides those maintenance items specified in the fixed
"Maintenance Schedule", t
SEE MORE:
If Your Engine Overheats
In any of the following situations, you can reduce the
potential for overheating by taking the appropriate action.
On the highways - slow down.
In city traffic - while stopped, place the transmission
in NEUTRAL, but do not increase the engine idle
speed.
NOTE: There are steps that you can take
Winch Accessories
The following accessories are necessary to attach the
winch to anchors, change direction of pull, and for safe
winching.
Gloves: Wire rope, through
use, will develop barbs
which can slice skin. It is extremely
important to wear protective
gloves while operating
the winch or handling the wire
rope.
