The RAM Cummins 2500 Laramie, equipped with the 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel, features a comprehensive instrument cluster with over 30 warning indicators. This guide covers the most critical lights specific to this heavy-duty pickup, ensuring you can quickly identify and address issues on the road or job site.
RAM Cummins 2500 Laramie Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | A critical system fault has been detected on your Cummins 2500; the engine may shut down to prevent damage. | Safely pull over, turn off engine, and consult the message display. Do not restart until resolved. | |
| Master Caution | AMBER | A non-critical system requires attention soon; check the instrument cluster display for specific warnings. | Review the message and schedule service promptly to avoid escalation. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | The engine control system has detected a fault in the 6.7L Cummins, which may affect emissions or performance. | Have the diagnostic trouble codes read by a dealer or qualified mechanic to identify the issue. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | The glow plugs are heating the intake air for cold starts; on the Cummins, this light stays on briefly in cold weather. | Turn the key to run and wait until the light turns off before starting; longer wait indicates colder conditions. | |
| Water in Fuel | AMBER | Water has accumulated in the fuel filter/water separator of your Cummins; this can damage the injection system. | Drain the water separator by loosening the petcock under the hood; if persistent, replace the filter. | |
| DEF / AdBlue | AMBER | Diesel Exhaust Fluid level is low or the system has a fault, which may limit vehicle speed to 5 mph if ignored. | Refill DEF at a pump or with approved containers; if light remains, service the SCR system. | |
| DPF / Regeneration | AMBER | The diesel particulate filter is actively regenerating to burn off soot, or requires cleaning if flashing. | Drive at highway speeds to complete passive regen; if flashing, park and initiate stationary regen via dash menu. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | The charging system voltage is low; the alternator or battery may be failing on your heavy-duty RAM. | Check battery connections and alternator belt; have the system tested at a parts store. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Oil pressure has dropped below safe levels in the 6.7L Cummins; immediate shutdown is necessary to avoid engine seizure. | Pull over, turn off engine, check oil level and look for leaks. Do not drive until resolved. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant is overheating; the Cummins can tolerate high temps, but continued operation causes damage. | Stop and let engine idle until cool; check coolant level and fan operation. If persistent, tow to dealer. | |
| Transmission Temp | RED | The 68RFE or Aisin transmission fluid is overheating; this can degrade fluid and damage the gearbox. | Reduce load, shift into neutral at idle, or park; allow fluid to cool before resuming driving. | |
| Brake System | RED | A brake system fault, such as low fluid or worn pads, has been detected; braking performance may be compromised. | Check brake fluid reservoir and inspect for leaks; have brakes serviced immediately. | |
| ABS | AMBER | The anti-lock braking system has a malfunction; standard brakes still work but ABS is disabled. | Drive cautiously and have the system diagnosed; sensors or pump may need replacement. | |
| Parking Brake | RED | The parking brake is engaged or a fault exists in the system; on the Laramie, this also illuminates during self-test. | Release the parking brake fully; if light stays, service the brake switch or cables. | |
| Tire Pressure (TPMS) | AMBER | One or more tires are significantly underinflated; the system monitors each tire individually on this RAM. | Check and inflate all tires to the recommended pressure (typically 60-80 psi for heavy-duty). | |
| Airbag (SRS) | AMBER | The supplemental restraint system has a fault; airbags may not deploy in a crash. | Have the system inspected by a dealer; do not ignore as it affects safety. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | The driver or passenger seat belt is unbuckled while the vehicle is in motion. | Buckle the seat belt; the chime will stop once secured. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | The high-beam headlights are activated; on the Laramie, this uses LED lighting for maximum visibility. | Dim to low beams when approaching oncoming traffic to avoid blinding others. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Fuel level is low; the 6.7L Cummins can run on diesel blends, but running empty may damage the HPFP. | Refuel as soon as possible; consider adding anti-gel in winter. | |
| Reduced Power (Limp Mode) | AMBER | The engine control system has limited power to prevent damage; common on the Cummins due to DPF or DEF issues. | Check for DPF regen required or DEF level; clear the condition or have the system serviced. | |
| Door Open | RED | A door is not fully closed; the Laramie's cab has four doors plus tailgate monitoring. | Close all doors and tailgate securely; check for sensor obstruction. | |
| High Exhaust Temp (HEST) | AMBER | The exhaust system is at elevated temperature, typically during DPF regen; the Cummins runs hot to clean the filter. | Avoid parking over tall grass or combustibles; drive normally to complete regen. |
22 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Oil Pressure
Common causes
- Low oil level
- Oil pump failure
- Clogged oil filter or passages
What to do
Stop engine immediately. For the 6.7L Cummins, check dipstick and top off with 15W-40 if low. If light persists, do not start; have oil pump and sensor tested at a diesel shop.
Coolant Overheat
Common causes
- Low coolant level
- Radiator fan failure
- Water pump or thermostat stuck
What to do
Pull over, let engine idle to circulate coolant. For the Cummins, check overflow tank and add 50/50 coolant. If overheating continues, tow to dealer; do not remove radiator cap while hot.
Brake System
Common causes
- Low brake fluid
- Worn brake pads
- Brake line leak
What to do
Check fluid level in reservoir; top off with DOT 3 fluid. Inspect for leaks under the vehicle. The Laramie's brake booster may also fail; have system inspected immediately.
Battery / Charging
Common causes
- Failed alternator
- Loose or corroded battery cables
- Bad battery cell
What to do
Check battery voltage at terminals (should be 12.6V off, 14V running). For the Cummins, the alternator is high-output; tighten connections and replace if charging below 13.5V.
Check Engine (MIL) with Reduced Power
Common causes
- DEF system fault or empty
- DPF clogged
- Turbo actuator failure
What to do
Scan codes with a diesel-specific tool. For the 6.7L, common issues are DEF quality or EGR problems. Address ASAP to avoid limp mode; reset may require dealer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my glow plug light stay on longer in cold weather?
The 6.7L Cummins preheats the intake air for easier cold starts. Below 32°F, the light may stay on for up to 10 seconds; wait until it turns off before cranking. If it flashes, the glow plug system needs service.
What does the water in fuel light mean and how do I drain it?
Moisture has collected in the fuel filter separator. To drain, locate the petcock on the filter housing (driver side of engine), place a container underneath, and open until clean diesel appears. Tighten and restart.
How do I perform a DPF stationary regen on my RAM?
Park the truck on level ground, set the parking brake, and let the engine idle. Navigate the dash menu to 'EXHAUST REGEN' and select 'START'. Regeneration takes about 30 minutes; keep the truck running until complete.
Why does my reduced power light come on when towing?
The Cummins monitors transmission temp, engine load, and emissions. If the DEF level is low or the DPF is full, it limits power to protect the engine. Check DEF level and ensure regen is completed; reduce load if necessary.
What type of DEF should I use in my Laramie?
Use only Diesel Exhaust Fluid that meets ISO 22241 standards. Avoid aftermarket additives; in cold climates, choose a brand that resists freezing. The DEF tank holds about 8 gallons and is located under the hood.
How often should I change the fuel filters on the 6.7L Cummins?
RAM recommends every 15,000 miles for severe duty. The filter is on the driver side of the engine; use a Mopar-approved filter. If the water separator light appears more frequently, change it sooner.