126 INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS{ WarningIf the airbag readiness light evercomes on and stays on, it meansthat something may be wrong withthe airbag system. To help avoidinjury to yourself or others, havethe vehicle serviced right away. SeeAirbag Readiness Light 0 125 formore information, includingimportant safety information.Charging System LightOn some vehicles the charging systemlight comes on briefly when theignition is turned on, but the engine isnot running, as a check to show thelight is working. It should go out whenthe engine is started. For vehicles witha reconfigurable cluster, this light maynot come on when the ignition isturned on.If the light stays on, or comes onwhile driving, there may be a problemwith the electrical charging system.Have it checked by your dealer.Driving while this light is on coulddrain the battery.When this light comes on, or isflashing, the Driver InformationCenter (DIC) also displays a message.If a short distance must be drivenwith the light on, be sure to turn offall accessories, such as the radio andair conditioner.Malfunction Indicator Lamp(Check Engine Light)This light is part of the vehicle’semission control on-board diagnosticsystem. If this light is on while theengine is running, a malfunction hasbeen detected and the vehicle mayrequire service. The light should comeon to show that it is working whenthe ignition is in Service Mode. SeeIgnition Positions 0 188.Malfunctions are often indicated bythe system before any problem isnoticeable. Being aware of the lightand seeking service promptly when itcomes on may prevent damage.CautionIf the vehicle is driven continuallywith this light on, the emissioncontrol system may not work aswell, the fuel economy may belower, and the vehicle may not runsmoothly. This could lead to costlyrepairs that might not be coveredby the vehicle warranty.
