What Does the Lightning Bolt Symbol Mean on a Dodge Charger's Instrument Panel?
by TJ HintonThe lightning bolt icon on your dashboard alerts you to a problem with the electronic throttle control system in your 2014 Dodge Charger. The gas pedal is not mechanically connected to the engine. Instead, a sensor monitors the position of the pedal and that information is sent to the ETC to make changes in engine speed. If the system detects a problem that results in an ETC error, the ETC light illuminates on the dashboard.
What To Do
If the ETC light stays on after the initial lamp check at start-up or it illuminates while driving but the Charger drives normally, continue on your way; but make a note to yourself to have it checked. If it is safe to pull over, stop the car, put it in "Park" and turn off the engine. Restart the car and see if the light comes back on. The "Check Engine" light may or may not also be lit. Have the car scanned for trouble codes. With so many possibilities that affect the ETC and engine speed, having the trouble codes goes a long way toward narrowing down the problem -- which may be as simple as replacing the air filter or replacing the ETC sensor, especially if you have a heavy foot on the gas pedal. If the ETC light illuminates and you experience performance problems -- such as misfires, stalling or erratic throttle response -- your Charger is unsafe to drive and you should take it to a shop straightaway.
Writer Bio
TJ Hinton trained as an auto mechanic at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and then later graduated from MMI as a certified motorcycle mechanic . He's also worked for 20+ years in home construction, remodeling and repair. His articles appear on InternetAutoGuide.com and TopSpeed.com.
