A flashing check engine light on a Jeep, Ram, Dodge or Chrysler usually means a severe engine misfire, and that can damage your catalytic converter. Ease off the gas, don't tow or haul, and if it keeps flashing, pull over safely and call for service. Here's what our service team in Mobile
wants every Jeep and Ram driver to know.
Watch the video: What does a flashing check engine light mean? (under a minute)
What a flashing light is telling you
Your engine computer turns the check engine light on steady when it finds a problem. It flashes the light when it detects a misfire bad enough to harm the catalytic converter. Unburned fuel from the misfiring cylinder goes into the exhaust, and the converter can overheat trying to burn it off.
That's why a flashing light is more urgent than a steady one. A steady light usually means "get it checked soon." A flashing light usually means "take it easy and get it looked at right away."
Towing or hauling? Stop and reassess
Plenty of Ram and Jeep owners around Mobile pull boats, campers and work trailers. A heavy load makes the engine work harder, and a misfiring engine under load can make the problem worse fast. If the light starts flashing while you're towing:
- Ease off the gas and keep your speed moderate.
- Find a safe place to pull over if the light keeps flashing. Don't push on to the lake, the job site or the boat launch.
- Call for service or a tow rather than continuing to pull the load.
- Pull over right away if the vehicle shakes hard, loses power or you smell something burning.
It flashed, then stopped. Now what?
A misfire can come and go, especially under load or in heavy stop-and-go traffic. Even after the light stops flashing, a diagnostic code may still be stored in the computer. Have it scanned. Finding an intermittent misfire early is usually simpler than repairing a damaged catalytic converter later.
What usually causes a misfire
- Worn spark plugs
- A failing ignition coil
- A clogged or leaking fuel injector
- A vacuum leak
- Low compression from internal engine wear
The light alone can't tell you which one it is. Our technicians read the stored code, then test the parts to find the actual cause, so you pay for the repair you need and nothing else.
Frequently asked questions
Does a flashing check engine light mean the same thing on a Jeep Grand Cherokee or a Ram 1500?
On most modern vehicles, including Jeep, Ram, Dodge and Chrysler models, a flashing check engine light usually indicates a severe misfire. Your owner's manual has the details for your specific vehicle.
Can I tow with a flashing check engine light?
It's best not to. Towing adds load that can make a misfire worse and overheat the catalytic converter. Ease off, and if the light keeps flashing, pull over safely and call for service or a tow.
Could a loose gas cap make the light flash?
A loose gas cap usually turns the light on steady, not flashing. A flashing light usually points to a misfire, so have it checked instead of waiting for it to clear.
Where can I get a flashing check engine light checked in Mobile, AL?
The Ross Downing CDJR service department at 1150 Schillinger Rd. S. in Mobile services Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles and can scan the code and find the cause.
Check engine light flashing on your Jeep or Ram?
Ross Downing CDJR Mobile, 1150 Schillinger Rd. S., Mobile, AL
Schedule service online or call (251) 319-5143
This article is general information. Always follow your owner's manual and your technician's recommendations for your specific vehicle.
