May 07, 2019
Modern instrument clusters, such as this one illuminated during the ignition sequence in a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia, warn of problems with the engine, brakes, emissions systems and other components.
Advancements in engine and emissions technology over the last decade have complicated the challenge of staying on top of dashboard warning lights.
Owners of trucks newer than the 2007 model year have been subject to potential diesel particulate filter problems. Other issues came with the selective catalytic reduction system introduced in 2010 model trucks.
Truck and engine makers have made progress in stabilizing these emissions-related systems, says Jeff Rogers, a Ryder maintenance director. Still, their malfunctions are among the most common triggers of dashboard warning lamps.