Forum Discussion

bluebarry1964b's avatar
Aug 26, 2013

How to check dash warning lights

My understanding is that when you first turn your key into accessory mode, before turning the key further in order to actually start the engine, all of the dash warning lights are supposed to come on for a second or two in order to let you know that they all are in proper working order. Is this true? My ABS, Low Fuel, & Warning lights aren't coming on.

7 Replies

  • key position in 'run' prior to starting should be bulb check
  • wny_pat wrote:
    Think we are talking a Freightliner cluster problem. And being a computerized instrument cluster, it is out of my league.


    Sorry, guys--I should have been more specific. It's a 2003 Holiday Rambler Neptune with a Roadmaster chassis.
  • Think we are talking a Freightliner cluster problem. And being a computerized instrument cluster, it is out of my league.
  • That is not always the test sequence, it can be different for different vehicles, as you go from "lock" to "off" through "accessory" and "on" to "start." Usually the owner's manual will list which lights are to do what at each stage.

    The lights that concern you, do they come on as you go through any switch position?
  • You didn't state what chassis you have. This is for the Workhorse Chassis with the Actia dash.

    Test at turn on

    The test at turn on will have a maximum duration of 3 seconds. During this time the followings actions must take place simultaneously:
    · All the tell-tales, except turn signals, must be turned on for 2 seconds then turned off.
    · All the gauges must reference themselves and then go to the position corresponding to their current reading.

    You can test all gauges by entering Diagnostic Mode.

    Diagnostic Mode

    The cluster enters diagnostic mode when a start diagnostic request is made.
    The start diagnostic request is sent either by a diagnostic tool through the CAN data link or by selecting the diagnostic option by setting the park brake and depressing the mode button for longer than five seconds.

    -Tom