2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 177

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 175 WARNING! Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have an accident. Have the vehicle checked immediately. Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate repair to the ABS system is required. Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the ON position. The light should illuminate for approximately two seconds. The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized dealer. The light also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the ON position. NOTE: This light shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application. 21. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is part of an Onboard Diagnostic system (OBD II) that monitors the emissions and engine control system. If the vehicle is ready for emissions testing, the light will come on when the ignition is first turned ON and remain on, as a bulb check, until the engine is started. If the vehicle is not ready for emissions testing, the light will come on when the ignition is first turned ON and remain on for 15 seconds, then blink for 5 seconds, and remain on until the vehicle is started. If the bulb does not come on during starting, have the condition investigated promptly. 4