The RAM Cummins 2500 Power Wagon features a comprehensive instrument cluster with warning lights specific to its heavy-duty diesel powertrain and off-road capabilities. From glow plug preheat to DPF regeneration, these indicators help you manage the 6.7L Cummins engine and Power Wagon's unique systems.
RAM Cummins 2500 Power Wagon Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | Indicates a fault in the emissions or engine management system specific to the Cummins 6.7L, such as a sensor issue or emissions component failure. | Have the engine scanned with a diagnostic tool at a RAM dealer or qualified shop. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | Illuminates when the glow plugs are heating the combustion chambers for cold starts in the Power Wagon's Cummins diesel; may flash if a fault exists. | Wait for the light to turn off before cranking; if flashing, service the glow plug system. | |
| DPF / Regeneration | AMBER | Lets you know the diesel particulate filter is actively cleaning itself by burning off soot, a common process in Power Wagon's emissions system. | Continue driving at highway speeds if safe; avoid turning off the engine during regeneration. | |
| DEF / AdBlue | AMBER | Warns that Diesel Exhaust Fluid level is low or quality is poor, affecting the SCR system on your RAM Cummins. | Refill with quality DEF; if persistent, have the system inspected for contamination. | |
| Water in Fuel | RED | Alert that water has been detected in the fuel/water separator, which can damage the high-pressure fuel system of the Cummins 6.7L. | Drain the water from the fuel filter separator immediately; check for contaminated fuel. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Low oil pressure detected in the Cummins turbo diesel, risking severe engine damage if ignored. | Pull over safely, shut off engine, check oil level; if okay, have pressure tested by a dealer. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | Indicates the charging system is not maintaining voltage, common if the alternator or battery fails on Power Wagon's dual battery setup. | Check battery connections and alternator belt; replace battery or alternator if needed. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant is overheating, which can occur under heavy towing or off-road use in the Power Wagon. | Stop engine, let cool; check coolant level and fan operation; avoid driving until resolved. | |
| Transmission Temp | RED | Transmission fluid is too hot, often due to high load like towing near maximum GCWR in the Power Wagon. | Pull over, let transmission cool in neutral; reduce load and check for leaks or service. | |
| Brake System | RED | Brake system fault, such as low brake fluid or hydraulic issue, affecting the Power Wagon's heavy-duty brakes. | Check brake fluid level; if low, inspect for leaks. Do not drive unless safe. | |
| ABS | AMBER | Anti-lock brake system malfunction, which disables the off-road ABS settings on the Power Wagon's axle. | Have the ABS system diagnosed; braking remain normal but without ABS support. | |
| Parking Brake | RED | Parking brake is engaged or fault detected, common if using the Power Wagon's heavy-duty parking pawl. | Release parking brake; if light persists, check brake switch or cable adjustment. | |
| Tire Pressure (TPMS) | AMBER | One or more tires are underinflated, critical for the Power Wagon's off-road and load-carrying capability. | Check and inflate tires to recommended PSI; reset TPMS after adjustment. | |
| Airbag (SRS) | AMBER | Supplemental Restraint System fault, which could disable airbags in a Power Wagon crash. | Have the SRS inspected by a RAM dealer as soon as possible. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | Driver or passenger seat belt not fastened; the Power Wagon chimes until buckled. | Buckle the seat belt for all occupants. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | High beam headlights are activated, offering long-range visibility for off-road trails. | Dim when approaching other vehicles. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Fuel level is low, important for the large 32-gallon tank on the Power Wagon. | Refuel as soon as possible to avoid running out. | |
| Reduced Power (Limp Mode) | RED | Engine power is reduced due to a fault, often to protect the Cummins 6.7L from damage. | Pull over, check for warning messages; have the vehicle serviced immediately. | |
| Trailer | GREEN | Trailer is connected and turn signals are being monitored, a common feature on the Power Wagon's towing package. | Verify trailer lights function; no action needed if all good. | |
| Door Open | RED | A door or the tailgate is ajar, important for security and cargo safety in the Power Wagon. | Close all doors and tailgate securely. | |
| Washer Fluid Low | AMBER | Windshield washer fluid is low, handy for cleaning mud off the glass off-road. | Top off washer fluid with appropriate solution. |
21 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Low Oil Pressure
Common causes
- Low oil level
- Oil pump failure
- Clogged oil filter
What to do
Immediately shut off the Cummins engine, check oil level with dipstick, top off if low; if light remains, have oil pressure tested by a RAM dealer.
Overheating Engine
Common causes
- Coolant leak
- Failed thermostat
- Radiator blockage from mud
What to do
Stop the vehicle safely, let engine cool, check coolant reservoir and radiator for damage; if okay, inspect cooling fan operation on Power Wagon.
Transmission Overheating
Common causes
- Excessive towing load
- Low transmission fluid
- Clogged transmission cooler
What to do
Pull over, shift to neutral, idle engine to cool transmission; check fluid level and condition; avoid heavy towing until serviced.
Water in Fuel
Common causes
- Contaminated diesel fuel
- Faulty fuel cap seal
- Condensation in tank
What to do
Drain the water separator located on the fuel filter housing; replace filter if needed; add fuel additive to prevent freezing on Power Wagon.
DEF System Fault
Common causes
- Low DEF fluid
- Faulty NOx sensor
- DEF pump failure
What to do
Refill DEF tank with quality fluid; if light persists, have RAM dealer diagnose SCR system to prevent speed limitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my glow plug light flashing on my Power Wagon?
A flashing glow plug light indicates a fault in the preheat system, often a bad glow plug or relay. Have it checked to avoid hard starting in cold weather.
What does the DPF regen light mean while driving?
The light means the diesel particulate filter is actively regenerating to burn off soot. Continue driving at highway speeds for about 20 minutes; do not turn off the engine.
Can I drive with the check engine light on in my 2500?
Yes, but if it's flashing, avoid heavy loads and high speeds. Have the code read soon; it could affect emissions or lead to reduced power mode.
How do I reset the tire pressure light after airing down off-road?
Inflate tires to the recommended PSI, then drive above 15 mph for a few minutes. The TPMS should reset automatically; if not, use the TPMS reset button under the steering column.
Why is my water in fuel light on after refueling?
You may have gotten contaminated diesel. Drain the water separator immediately to prevent fuel injector damage. Consider using a fuel additive with water dispersant.
What causes reduced power mode in the Power Wagon?
Common causes are high exhaust temperature, DEF issues, or a turbo fault. Pull over safely and check for messages; often requires dealer scan to clear.