Get Understanding Your Instrument Panel -> Warning And Indicator Lights Guide for Fiat 500 SUV First Generation (2007-2019)

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 119

5. Base And Sport Mode Gauge Displays

NOTE: Different trips may have different values even if

the same driving style is maintained. Some factors that

may impact the calculated index value are:

Depending on what options and trim level your vehicle

may be equipped with, two gauge displays are avail-

able with the push of the Sport Mode button.

• Traffic conditions

• Instant Consumption Bar graph: This bar graph

shows the instant fuel consumption, the style

changes according to vehicle version while mini-

mum and maximum values change depending on

selected unit. The possible labels are:

• Trip duration

4

• Temperature (engine and ambient)

6. Instrument Cluster Display

• The instrument cluster display features a driver-

interactive display. Refer to “Instrument Cluster

Display” in “Understanding Your Instrument

Panel” for further information.

• Mpg

• Km/l

• l/100 km

• “Sport Mode” — Gas Pedal Percentage Gauge: This

gauge shows what percent the gas pedal is cur-

rently depressed at.

WARNING AND INDICATOR LIGHTS

The warning/indicator lights switch on in the instru-

ment panel together with a dedicated message and/or

acoustic signal when applicable. These indications are

indicative and precautionary and as such must not be

considered as exhaustive and/or alternative to the

information contained in the Owner’s Manual, which

you are advised to read carefully in all cases. Always

refer to the information in this chapter in the event of a

failure indication.

• “Sport Mode” — The active instrument cluster

display screen will change to the G-Force screen.

• “Sport Turbo Mode” — This gauge shows the

Turbo boost during acceleration.

• “Turbo Pressure Gauge” — This gauge shows the

level of turbo pressure.

120 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

All active telltales will display first if applicable. The

system check menu may appear different based upon

equipment options and current vehicle status. Some

telltales are optional and may not appear.

Red Telltale Indicator Lights

Air Bag Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Air Bag Warning Light

This light will turn on for four to eight seconds as a bulb check when the ignition is placed

in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position. If the light is either not on during startup, stays on,

or turns on while driving, have the system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as pos-

sible. This light will illuminate with a single chime when a fault with the Air Bag Warning

Light has been detected, it will stay on until the fault is cleared. If the light comes on inter-

mittently or remains on while driving, have an authorized dealer service the vehicle imme-

diately.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 121

Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light

When the ignition is first placed in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position, if the driver’s seat

belt is unbuckled, a chime will sound and the light will turn on. When driving, if the driver

or front passenger seat belt remains unbuckled, the Seat Belt Reminder Light will flash or

remain on continuously and a chime will sound. Refer to “Occupant Restraints Systems” in

“Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle” for further information.

4

Electric Power Steering Fail Warning Light — If Equipped

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Electric Power Steering Fail Warning — If Equipped

This light is used to manage the electrical warning of the EPS (Electric Power Steering). Re-

fer to “Electric Power Steering” in “Starting And Operating” for further information.

122 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Brake Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Brake Warning Light

This light monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake

application. If the brake light turns on it may indicate that the parking brake is applied, that

the brake fluid level is low, or that there is a problem with the anti-lock brake system reser-

voir.

If the light remains on when the parking brake has been disengaged, and the fluid level is

at the full mark on the master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake hydraulic sys-

tem malfunction or that a problem with the Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-

Lock Brake System (ABS) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system. In this case, the light

will remain on until the condition has been corrected. If the problem is related to the Brake

Booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake, and a brake pedal pulsation may

be felt during each stop.

NOTE: Brake Warning Light may illuminate due to excessive wear to brake pads.

The dual brake system provides a reserve braking

NOTE: The light may flash momentarily during sharp

cornering maneuvers, which change fluid level condi-

tions. The vehicle should have service performed, and

the brake fluid level checked.

capacity in the event of a failure to a portion of the

hydraulic system. A leak in either half of the dual brake

system is indicated by the Brake Warning Light, which

will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master

cylinder has dropped below a specified level.

If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is neces-

sary.

The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 123

Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked

by placing the ignition in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN)

position. The light should illuminate for approximately

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.

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.

4

The light also will turn on when the parking brake is

applied with the ignition placed in the MAR (ACC/

ON/RUN) position.

Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System

(ABS) are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force

Distribution (EBD).

NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is

applied. It does not show the degree of brake applica-

tion.

CAUTION!

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.

124 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Battery Charge Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Battery Charge Warning Light

This light illuminates when the battery is not charging properly. If it stays on while the en-

gine is running, there may be a malfunction with the charging system. Contact your autho-

rized dealer as soon as possible. This indicates a possible problem with the electrical system

or a related component.

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Warning Light

This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. If a

problem is detected while the engine is running, the light will either stay on or flash de-

pending on the nature of the problem. Cycle the ignition key when the vehicle is safely and

completely stopped and the transmission is placed in the PARK position. The light should

turn off. If the light remains on with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be driv-

able; however, see an authorized dealer for service as soon as possible.

If the light continues to flash when the engine is running, immediate service is required and

you may experience reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle, or engine stall and your

vehicle may require towing. The light will come on when the ignition is first placed in the

MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position 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.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 125

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Oil Pressure Warning Light

This light 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.

4

Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected. This light does not indicate how

much oil is in the engine. The engine oil level must be checked under the hood.

Engine Temperature Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Engine Temperature Warning Light

This light warns of an overheated engine condition. As engine coolant temperatures rise and

the gauge approaches H, 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 vehicle. 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 further

information.

126 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Door Open Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Door Open Warning Light

This indicator will illuminate when a door is ajar/open and not fully closed.

• Driver’s Door Open

• Passenger Door Open

• Driver and Passenger Door Open

Liftgate Open Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Liftgate Open Warning Light

This indicator will turn when the liftgate is open.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 127

Transmission Fault Warning Light

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Transmission Fault Warning Light

This light will illuminate (together with a message in the instrument cluster display and a

buzzer) to indicate a transmission fault. Contact your authorized dealer if the message re-

mains after restarting the engine.

4

WARNING!

CAUTION!

If you continue operating the vehicle when the

Transmission Temperature Warning Light is illumi-

nated you could cause the fluid to boil over, come in

contact with hot engine or exhaust components and

cause a fire.

Continuous driving with the Transmission Tem-

perature Warning Light illuminated will eventually

cause severe transmission damage or transmission

failure.

128 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Hood Open Warning Light — If Equipped

Red Telltale

Light

What It Means

Hood Open Warning Light

This indicator will illuminate when the hood is ajar/open and not fully closed.

Yellow Telltale Indicator Lights

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light

Yellow Telltale

What It Means

Light

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 recommended 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 in sequence.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 129

Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire

tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and

stopping ability.

CAUTION!

Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires

as handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle,

avoiding sharp braking and steering. Repair imme-

diately using the dedicated tire repair kit and con-

tact your authorized dealer as soon as possible.

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper

tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to

maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation

has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the

TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

4

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 pres-

sure label, you should determine the proper tire infla-

tion pressure for those tires.)

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS

malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is

not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indica-

tor 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 continu-

ously 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 re-

placement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle

that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Al-

ways check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replac-

ing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to

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. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale

illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as

soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pres-

sure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire

causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.

130 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and

wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function prop-

erly.

CAUTION! (Continued)

replacement equipment 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 inoperable. After using an after-

market tire sealant it is recommended that you take

your vehicle to an authorized dealer to have your

sensor function checked.

CAUTION!

The TPMS has been optimized for the original

equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and

warning have been established for the tire size

equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system op-

eration or sensor damage may result when using

(Continued)

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 131

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light

The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster will come on

when the ignition is placed in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position. It should go out with

the engine running. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” comes on continu-

ously with the engine running, a malfunction has been detected in the ESC system. If this

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 your authorized dealer as soon as

possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected.

4

• The “ESC Off Indicator Light” and the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light”

come on momentarily each time the ignition is placed in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN)

position.

• Each time the ignition is placed in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position, the ESC system

will be ON even if it was manually turned off previously.

• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds and flash the ESC activation light

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

following the maneuver that caused the ESC activation.

132 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator Light

This light indicates the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is off. For further information, refer

to “Electronic Stability Control (ESC)” in “Starting And Operating.”

Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

The Engine Check/Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is a part of an Onboard Diagnostic

System called OBD II that monitors engine and automatic transmission control systems. The

light will illuminate when the ignition is in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position before en-

gine start. If the bulb does not come on when turning the key from STOP (OFF/LOCK) to

MAR (ACC/ON/RUN), have the condition checked promptly.

Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor quality fuel, etc., may illuminate

the light after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on through sev-

eral typical driving styles. In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and will not

require towing.

When the engine is running, the MIL may flash to alert serious conditions that could lead to

immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should be ser-

viced as soon as possible if this occurs.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 133

WARNING!

CAUTION!

A malfunctioning catalytic converter, as referenced

above, can reach higher temperatures than in nor-

mal operating conditions. This can cause a fire if

you drive slowly or park over flammable sub-

stances such as dry plants, wood, cardboard, etc.

This could result in death or serious injury to the

driver, occupants or others.

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.

4

Rear Defrost Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Rear Defrost Light

This indicator will illuminate when the rear window defroster is on. The rear window de-

froster automatically turns off after 20 minutes.

134 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

CAUTION!

CAUTION! (Continued)

cloth and a mild washing solution, wiping paral-

lel to the heating elements. Labels can be peeled

off after soaking with warm water.

• Do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or abra-

sive window cleaners on the interior surface of

the window.

Failure to follow these cautions can cause damage

to the heating elements:

• Use care when washing the inside of the rear

window. Do not use abrasive window cleaners on

the interior surface of the window. Use a soft

•

Keep all objects a safe distance from the window.

(Continued)

Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Indicator Light

After the ignition is turned on, the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) light illuminates to indi-

cate function check at vehicle startup. If the light remains on after startup or comes on and

stays on at road speeds, it may indicate that the ABS has detected a malfunction or has be-

come inoperative. The system reverts to standard non-anti-lock brakes.

If both the Brake Warning Light and the ABS Warning Light are on, see an authorized

dealer immediately. Refer to “Anti-Lock Brake System” in “Starting And Operating” for

further information.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 135

Generic Warning Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Generic Warning Indicator Light

The Generic Warning Light will illuminate if any of the following conditions occur: Oil

Change Request, Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Failure, External Light Failure, Fuel Cut-Off

Not Available, Parking Sensor Failure, DST System Failure.

4

Icy Road Condition Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Icy Road Condition Indicator Light

This light will illuminate during an icy road condition.

Exterior Bulb Failure Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Exterior Bulb Failure Indicator Light

This light will illuminate when there is a malfunction in one of the exterior bulbs.

136 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Vehicle Security Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Vehicle Security Indicator Light

This indicator will illuminate when the vehicle security alarm system has detected an

attempt was made to break into the vehicle.

Stop Light Failure Indicator Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Stop Light Failure Indicator Light

This light will illuminate if one or more of the stop light bulb fails.

The failure relating to this light could be:

• One or more blown bulbs

• A blown protection fuse

• A break in the electrical connection

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 137

Low Fuel Warning Light

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Low Fuel Indicator Light

When the fuel level reaches approximately 1.3 gallons (5 Liters) this light will turn on, and

remain on until fuel is added.

4

Glow Plug Light — If Equipped

Yellow Telltale

Light

What It Means

Glow Plug Light — If Equipped

This vehicle will inhibit engine cranking when the ambient temperature is less than –22° F

(–30° C) and the oil temperature sensor reading indicates an engine block heater has not

been used. The Glow Plug light will flash during in cold weather for up to 10 seconds.

If equipped with a block heater harness the message ЉPlug In Engine HeaterЉ, will be dis-

played in the instrument cluster when the ambient temperature is below 5°F (-15° C) at the

time the engine is shut off as a reminder to avoid possible crank delays at the next cold

start.

138 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Green Telltale Indicator Lights

Turn Signal Indicator Lights

Green Telltale

Light

What It Means

Turn Signal Indicator Lights

The instrument cluster arrow will flash independently for the left or right turn signal as se-

lected, as well as the exterior turn signal lamp(s) (front and rear) as selected when the multi-

function lever is moved down (left) or up (right).

Park/Headlight On Indicator Light

Green Telltale

Light

What It Means

Park/Headlight On Indicator Light

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

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 139

Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped

Green Telltale

Light

What It Means

Front Fog Indicator Light — If Equipped

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

4

Cruise Control Engaged Indicator Light — If Equipped

Green Telltale

Light

What It Means

Cruise Control Engaged Indicator Light

This light will turn on when the cruise control has been set to a certain speed.

140 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

Blue Telltale Indicator Lights

High Beam Indicator Light

Blue Telltale

Light

What It Means

High Beam Indicator Light

This indicator shows that the high beam headlights are on. Push the multifunction control

lever away from you to switch the headlights to high beam. Pull the lever toward you to

switch the headlights back to low beam. Pull the lever toward you for a temporary high

beam on, Љflash to passЉ scenario.

White Telltale Indicator Lights

Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light

White Telltale

Light

What It Means

Cruise Control Ready Indicator Light

This light will turn on when the speed control is on, but not set.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 141

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DISPLAY

Instrument Cluster Display And Controls

The driver-interactive instrument cluster display is

located in the center of the instrument cluster.

Your vehicle may be equipped with an instrument

cluster display, which offers useful information to the

driver. With the ignition in the STOP/OFF position,

opening/closing of a door will activate the display for

viewing, and display the total miles (kilometers) in the

odometer. Your instrument cluster display is designed

to display important information about your vehicle’s

systems and features. Using a driver interactive display

located on the instrument panel, your instrument clus-

ter display can show you how systems are working and

give you warnings when they aren’t. The steering wheel

mounted controls allow you to scroll through and enter

the main menus and submenus. You can access the

specific information you want and make selections and

adjustments.

4

Instrument Cluster Display

The system display consists of the following:

• System Status

• Vehicle Information Warning Message Displays

• Personal Settings (Customer-Programmable Fea-

tures)

• Outside Temperature Display

• Trip Computer Functions

• Tire Pressure Monitoring Display

Understanding Your Instrument Panel -> Warning And Indicator Lights for Your Fiat 500 SUV First Generation (2007-2019)

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