The Check Gages Dodge Ram 1500 warning light can cause anxiety and stress for any driver.
This light is vital to the vehicle’s system, signalling potential problems with the engine, transmission, or other systems.
Although several minor issues can trigger this light, it is essential to address the problem immediately to prevent further damage and potential safety hazards.
Let’s learn more about this matter with our post!
What Is Check Gages Dodge Ram 1500?
Check Gages is a warning message that appears on the dashboard of a Dodge Diesel Truck 1500.
It indicates that one or more of the gauges in the instrument cluster are not displaying normal readings, and the driver needs to take appropriate action to address the issue.
The gauges that are typically included in the instrument cluster of a Dodge Ram 1500 include the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pressure gauge.
When the Check Gages message appears, it means that one of these gauges indicates an abnormal reading, which could indicate a problem with the vehicle’s engine or other critical systems.
One time, the oil pressure gauge on my car showed a low reading, and I checked the engine oil level. It was low, and there was also a problem with the oil pump.
Similarly, a high temperature gauge reading could hint at an issue with the cooling system or radiator.
Location Of The Check Gauge Dodge Ram 1500
The location of the “Check Gauge” light may vary slightly depending on the year and model of the vehicle.
Still, it is typically located near the bottom of the instrument cluster, to the right of the speedometer.
The light is usually yellow or orange and may have a symbol of a gauge or an exclamation mark in the center.
When the “Check Gauge” light comes on, the driver needs to take immediate action to address the issue, as it signals a failure within the engine or other critical systems.
Some of the most common reasons for the light to come on include low oil pressure, high engine temperature, low fuel level, or a bad alternator.
What Causes Check Gauges Dodge Ram 1500
What does Check Gages mean Dodge Ram? What about its causes?
There are several potential causes of this issue, including low oil pressure, coolant leaks, faulty electrical systems, clogged filters, a poor battery, wrong oil pressure, or bad gauge range.
More details can be found below.
Battery Drainage
If the battery is not fully charged or holding a charge, it can cause various electrical issues, like abnormal readings on the instrument cluster gauges.
It provides power to the vehicle’s electrical system, including the gauges, lights, and other components.
When my battery was low or not functioning properly, I noticed the gauges displayed inaccurate readings, and sometimes, the warning lights came on, including the “Check Gages” warning.
Other factors that can cause battery drainage include leaving lights or other accessories on when the vehicle is turned off, a malfunctioning alternator, or a faulty battery.
Coolant Leakage
The cooling system in a vehicle plays a critical role in regulating conditions of engine temperature and preventing overheating.
The cooling system leaking (due to a damaged radiator or a cracked hose) lets coolant escape, reducing the amount of coolant available to regulate operating temperature.
This can overheat the engine, which may trigger the “Check Gages” warning on the instrument cluster.
Other signs of a coolant leak I have encountered were steam from the engine or a sweet smell from the engine compartment.
Broken Seal And Gasket
Seals and gaskets are used in various parts of the engine and other systems to prevent leaks of fluids, such as oil and coolant.
When a seal or gasket is damaged or broken, it can cause fluid to leak out of the system, leading to low levels of oil or coolant.
This can result in engine overheating or other issues, triggering the “Check Gages” warning to appear on the instrument cluster.
Some common areas where seals and gaskets can fail in a Dodge Ram Van 1500 include the oil pan, valve cover, head gasket, and intake manifold gasket.
Clogged Filters
The engine and other systems in the vehicle rely on various filters to remove contaminants from the air, fuel, and other fluids.
Over time, these filters can become clogged with dirt, debris, and other particles, reducing their effectiveness and potentially causing vehicle performance troubles.
A clogged air filter, for example, restricted airflow to my engine, leading to reduced power and increased fuel consumption.
On the flip side, a blocked fuel filter will hinder the fuel flow to the car engine, leading it to run poorly or stall.
If a filter is severely clogged, it will also illuminate the “Check Gages” warning on the instrument cluster, as it can affect various sensors and gauges in the vehicle.
So, it’s best to change your fuel filter timely to prevent this.
Faulty Electric System
The electrical system in a vehicle is responsible for powering various components, from gauges and indicative lights to other electronics.
A fault in the electrical system can spawn many problems, such as abnormal readings on the instrument cluster, dimming or flickering lights, or other electrical malfunctions.
When my alternator was not functioning properly, it could not charge the battery effectively, and I spotted some issues with the electrical system soon after that.
Corroded battery terminals can also impede the flow of electricity, causing troubles with the vehicle’s performance.
Damaged wiring can be a recipe for short circuits, leading to several machinery faults.
Wrong Gauge Range
The gauges in a vehicle are designed to provide accurate readings for various systems, such as oil pressure, ambient temperature, and fuel level.
However, if the wrong gauge range is used, the readings may not be accurate, ending up with false alarms or other issues.
For example, when I used a gauge designed for a different type of vehicle or system in my Dodge Ram 1500, it returned wrong readings.
It is important to use the correct gauge range specified by the manufacturer to ensure accurate readings and prevent false alarms.
Oil Pressure Failure
The oil pressure in a vehicle’s engine is crucial to ensuring proper lubrication and preventing excessive wear and tear on engine components.
If the oil pressure drops below a safe level, it will bring damage to the engine and potentially entail a catastrophic failure.
The Check Gages warning is designed to alert drivers of any vehicle oil pressure problems.
Common causes of oil pressure failure include a malfunctioning oil pump, clogged oil passages, or a low oil level.
A faulty oil pump may not be able to provide sufficient oil pressure, leading to potential engine damage. Clogged oil passages can also interfere with the oil flow, decreasing oil pressure.
How To Reset Dodge Ram Check Gauges Light
Does your Dodge Ram Check Gauges light keeps coming on? Resetting it is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Here is what you need to do.
Step 1: Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
Step 2: Locate the fuse box, usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
Step 3: Locate the IOD fuse. This fuse is usually labeled and is typically a 10- or 15-amp fuse.
Step 4: Use a fuse puller or a pair of pliers to gently remove the fuse from the fuse box.
Step 5: Wait 10-15 seconds before reinserting the IOD fuse. This will allow the vehicle’s computer to reset.
Step 6: Carefully reinsert the fuse into its slot in the fuse box.
Step 7: Turn on the ignition and wait for the Check Gage light to turn off. This may take a few seconds.
Step 8: After the Check Gauge light turns off, check the instrument cluster for error messages or alarming lights.
Let’s say any issues persist. In this case, we suggest you have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify the root cause of the issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Drive Your Ram 1500 With The Check Engine Light On?
No, driving your Ram 1500 with the check engine light on is not safe.
This indicator light shows a problem with the engine or emissions system, and ignoring it can potentially wreak havoc on the vehicle with costly repairs.
What Does Check Gauges Mean On A 1998 Dodge Ram 1500?
The Check Gages light on a 1998 Dodge Ram 1500 represents an issue with one or more of the gauges in the vehicle’s instrument cluster, such as a reading outside the normal range.
What Does Check Gauges Mean On A 2008 Dodge Ram 1500?
Similar to other models, this 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Check Gauges light may come on if there is a problem with the engine, transmission, or other systems.
When it illuminates, it means the issue is severe enough to affect the reading of one or more gauges.
The Bottom Line
The Check Gages Dodge Ram 1500 warning light is a crucial indicator of potential vehicle system faults.
If you notice this check light illuminating on your dashboard, it is best to take the necessary steps to identify and address the underlying problem.
Be proactive and seek professional assistance when this occurs, and you can prevent further damage and ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle.
Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can go a long way in avoiding costly repairs and maintaining the optimal performance of your car.