Dash warning lights and audible alarms are designed to alert the operator of an impending problem. At initial engine start up icons on the dash panel will illuminate to verify a light check and will then go off. A dash warning light then remains off unless a particular system reaches out of range condition. A dash warning light that stays on, illuminates during drive time or sounds a continuous audible signal is an alarm to the motor home operator to discontinue driving and proceed with troubleshooting and repair of the malfunctioning system.

Knowing the individual purpose of dash gauges will help you to detect impending problems early. For example, the normal reading of the voltmeter gauge is usually around 14.2. A sudden drop in the level to 11.4 could indicate that there is a problem with the alternator. In this instance it would be necessary to stop driving the motor home and inspect the alternator by opening the engine compartment and examining the drive belt. If the component appears in order, but the gauge reading continues to drop, it would then be recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified technician.

Dash warning lights may illuminate in different colors to signify that a particular action is required. Red is generally considered a Stop Lamp that notifies the motor home operator to pull off the road as soon as it is safely possible and shut off the engine to avoid further damage. Yellow or Amber warning lights often indicate that the system is operating out of normal range and that the operator should proceed to troubleshooting and repair as soon as possible.

The ECM is the control center of the system, processing all the inputs and sending commands to the fuel system, motor home and engine control devices. The ECM also performs diagnostic tests on many circuits and will activate a fault code if a problem is detected on one of these circuits. Along with the fault code identifying the problem, a snapshot of engine operating parameters at the time of the fault activation is also stored in memory. Active fault codes illuminate a warning light to signal the driver.

The Electronic Control Module (ECM) is an electronically operated fuel control system that also provides warning features. The base function of the ECM includes fueling and timing control limiting the engine speed operating range between low and high idle set points and reducing exhaust emissions while optimizing engine performance. This system also controls the engine brakes.

Do not ignore warning lights. If a warning light alarms, pull safely away from traffic and call for assistance. Allow the engine to cool before checking coolant and engine oil levels.