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INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS 141


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Charging System Light


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On some vehicles the charging system light comes on briefly when the

ignition is turned on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show the

light is working. It should go out when the engine is started. For vehicles with a reconfigurable cluster, this light may not come on when the ignition is

turned on.

If the light stays on, or comes on

while driving, there may be a problem with the electrical charging system.

Have it checked by your dealer.

Driving while this light is on could drain the battery.

When this light comes on, or is flashing, the Driver Information

Center (DIC) also displays a message.

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If a short distance must be driven

with the light on, be sure to turn off all accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.

Charge Cord Connected (PLUG-IN Only)


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This light comes on when a charge cord is connected to the vehicle.


Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light)

This light is part of the vehicles

emission control on-board diagnostic system. If this light is on while the

engine is running, a malfunction has been detected and the vehicle may

require service. The light should come on to show that it is working when

the ignition is in Service Mode. See

Ignition Positions 0 215.


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Malfunctions are often indicated by the system before any problem is

noticeable. Being aware of the light

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and seeking service promptly when it comes on may prevent damage.


Caution

If the vehicle is driven continually with this light on, the emission

control system may not work as well, the fuel economy may be

lower, and the vehicle may not run smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that might not be covered

by the vehicle warranty.

142 INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS


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Caution

Modifications to the engine,

transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system, or the use of

replacement tires that do not meet the original tire specifications, can cause this light to come on. This

could lead to costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty.

This could also affect the vehicles

ability to pass an Emissions

Inspection/Maintenance test. See

Accessories and Modifications 0 307.


If the light is flashing : A

malfunction has been detected that could damage the emission control system and increase vehicle

emissions. Diagnosis and service may be required.

To help prevent damage, reduce vehicle speed and avoid hard

accelerations and uphill grades.

If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as

possible.

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If the light continues to flash, find a

safe place to park. Turn the vehicle off and wait at least 10 seconds before

restarting the engine. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous

guidelines and see your dealer for service as soon as possible.

If the light is on steady : A

malfunction has been detected.

Diagnosis and service may be required.

Check the following:

. If fuel has been added to the vehicle using the capless fuel

funnel adapter, make sure that it has been removed. See Filling the Tank with a Portable Gas Can

under Filling the Tank 0 296. The

diagnostic system can detect if the adapter has been left installed in

the vehicle, allowing fuel to

evaporate into the atmosphere.

A few driving trips with the

adapter removed may turn off the light.

. Poor fuel quality can cause

inefficient engine operation and poor driveability, which may go away once the engine is warmed

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up. If this occurs, change the fuel brand. It may require at least one

full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. See Fuel 0 294.

If the light remains on, see your dealer.

Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs

If the vehicle requires an Emissions

Inspection/Maintenance test, the test equipment will likely connect to the

vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).


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The DLC is under the instrument

panel to the left of the steering wheel.

Connecting devices that are not used to perform an Emissions Inspection/ Maintenance test or to service the

vehicle may affect vehicle operation.

See Add-On Electrical Equipment 0 303. See your dealer if assistance is needed.