Jeep wont start red lightning bolt. Red lightning bolt and won't crank over at all.

Jeep wont start red lightning bolt Turn off and restart and temp works and lightning bolts go away. It indicates a potential issue with the jeep’s electronic throttle control system. Read on. I’m going on a week of trying to track this gremlin down and just can’t figure out what is causing this In this video I will explain and tell you how to fix the lightning bolt warning light on the dashboard also known as throttle control warning light. Now I'm just looking up causes and fixes, hoping it's not a ETC issue. First, check the key fob battery and try a spare key. For instance, if the pedal position has altered. 0 lt. To reset the electronic throttle control system insert ignition key and turn to "ON" position but do not start the engine. The ETC system controls the gas pedal and throttle in your Jeep vehicle. I can add more pics later to clarify. A flashing Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) indicator (lightning bolt) may also appear. This morning I went outside to start it to warm it up (19f in my neighborhood this morning) and it started Apr 15, 2015 · I have a 2011 Jeep Wrangler and sometimes the temp gage will stay at 0 and I get the lighting bolts on dash. Start the Feb 15, 2014 · When I start my jeep in the morning the lighting bolt light and the check engine light come on, and the engine does like a half crank. No issues before Mechanic's Assistant: What's the approximate mileage on your 2019 Kicks? Customer Jul 25, 2019 · Hi, just went to leave and get just a 'tic, tic' and the engine won't turn over or start. Mechanic's Assistant: How long has the vehicle been unable to start after cranking? Has the security system been activated recently? Customer: I drove it yesterday, went to the store, and when I came out, I had to get it towed home. . Feb 12, 2023 · Then one morning I have red lightning bolt on dash and car won't start at all. This lead to the engine half cranking and stalling out. jeep doesn’t want to start. My jeep is a month old 600 hundred miles. 2011 grand Cherokee 3. Battery and alternator are new Mechanic's Assistant: Have you checked the battery, particularly the terminal connections? Are they corroded? Customer: Be me and all look good Mechanic's Assistant: What is the model/year of your Jeep? Customer: 2011 grand Cherokee 3. I hear a single click from the TPM, but I'm uncertain which relay it is, and there's also a click from the driver's door panel. In this article, we'll illuminate what this red lightning bolt really means, the key steps to take if you encounter it, and how to nip potential issues Customer: It cranks but wont start and has a red lightning bolt on the dash Mechanic's Assistant: Have you checked the engine's fuel supply? And the spark plugs -- are they all working? Customer: Fuel is good spark plugs no where do I look for them on 2013 jeep grand cherokee Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Spark yourself? Feb 11, 2017 · i have 2010 Jeep patriot latitude and the lightening bolt (electronic throttle warning light ) just came on. my wife turned the car off and back on and was able to drive for a couple of Aug 27, 2019 · Then the red lightning bolt light and check engine light start blinking on the dash. Jun 7, 2015 · If your 2012 Jeep Wrangler won't start after disconnecting the fuse box during an amplifier installation, and you hear a single click, the issue might be due to a loose connection. What does the lightning bolt warning light mean? The lightning bolt warning light on your Jeep Compass indicates a fault in the electronic throttle control system in Jul 16, 2025 · Still nothing. Mechanic's Assistant: What is the year and model Jan 5, 2024 · The Lightning Bolt Light on a Dodge Caliber The lightning bolt symbol on the dashboard of a Dodge Caliber indicates a problem with the electronic throttle control system. If the immobilizer fails to recognize the key, the engine won’t start. What is the relearn Red lightning bolt. The vehicle turns over as soon as I turn the key to the start position, and it continues to turn over even after I release the key, but it won't start. I took apart the upper and lower intakes and resealed it all again with another set of Fel pro Perma dry gaskets Oct 30, 2021 · was driving my 08 wrangler and downshifted as i was coming up to red light- light turned green and i accelerated and lost all power. Dec 12, 2021 · If your 2012 Jeep JK is experiencing intermittent flashing lightning bolt and traction control lights, leading to limp mode, especially after hitting bumps, here's what to check: * **Grounds:** Inspect all ground connections, particularly the main ground off the battery's negative terminal and the PCM ground wire on the inner left fender. If after following these steps the lightning bolt of death has not gone away you will want to move to the next section of this page. Turn on the ignition (but do not start the car). Here’s what you need to know: What It Means: – The red lightning bolt indicates a problem with the electronic throttle control unit. Read our blog to know more about the Red Lightning Bolt Jeep Won't Start issue and get the right solution now. Subscribe, Like, Sit Back, and Enjoy! 2014 Dodge . Got a jump off another car cause I thought the battery was dead. lightning bolts come on when starting When turning key to start red lightning bolts come on when started engine - Dodge 2008 Ram 1500 2WD question. I replaced throttle body, camshake &crankshaft sensor EGR, air intake sensor and replaced a wire to my alternator to give correct voltage to it. Got this beautiful piece of machinery but now having issues the red lightning bolt coming on when I try to start it but doesn’t turn over or anything just took it to Nashville last week and was Apr 23, 2024 · The red lightning bolt is referring to the throttle system, either the throttle body or throttle/gas pedal. Red lightning bolt shows on dashboard. Randomly went out and started it again and it started right up. Nov 21, 2018 · My wife was driving our 2017 jeep patriot it has 65000 miles on it today the red lightning bolt started flashing the check engine light came on and the traction control light came on the car lost power and was limping. It turn off after a few seconds is this a good thing or a bad thing. So I replaced the accelerator pedal, with the pedal position sensor. It can be easily fixed by the tricks mentioned below: The red lightning bolt on a Jeep dashboard is a warning light that indicates a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system. A little backstory to the JK maybe to better help diagnose. Mechanic's Assistant: What's the year and I got a flashing red lightning bolt on my Charger. Jul 19, 2014 · Just wanted to share my recent experience with "The dreaded red lightning bolt" On Wednesday I went to move my jeep and out of the blue the I got the red lightning bolt on the dash and it would not start. The symbol would then disappear but car won't start. Customer: Red lightning bolt. The dashboard displays a red lightning bolt symbol. it is getting fuel. Press the accelerator pedal all the Absolutely NO engine light comes on, just the lightning bolt symbol. Battery is fully charged Blowers and lights work No blown fuses Replaced ecu myself and now throttle body is clicking several times on first key turn but nothing else. It’s an important system that monitors the accelerator pedal position sensor, ensures proper communication between the pedal Feb 18, 2018 · Jeep won't start. question is what do i do to fix it? i’ve read it could be throttle body or sensor i Jan 7, 2025 · When you encounter that pesky red lightning bolt, one of the first things to do is restart your vehicle. ) Oct 3, 2022 · The red lightning bolt of death was flashing on the dash cluster. – It may indicate a problem It stared showing the lightning symbol )⚡ ( and wouldn't start. Still nothing. Turn the key to the run position (without starting the vehicle). I had code p2172, high airflow leak detected, sudden accumulation. Jeep cranks over just fine, but just won’t start. com Aug 16, 2021 · So I have a 2013 jeep wrangler and it wont start and the red lightning bolt shows on the dash. 08 JKU X package, 3. Welcome to the Dasllamas YouTube channel. In this video I diagnose the problem and fix it. The lightning bolt one is usually for the electronic throttle control. Ensure they are tight and free from corrosion Aug 19, 2022 · Knowing the purpose of the red lightning bolt Jeep light can help you avoid further damages to your vehicle. If the issue persists, further diagnosis by a Apr 30, 2017 · I have searched and searched, read just about every thread on this forum and others regarding the lightening bolt of death, annoyance and pure frustration. If this is the case, there are steps you can take to perform a reset to get rid of the lightning bolt. Are you having trouble starting your Red Lightning Bolt Jeep? Don't worry, we have the solution to your problem. Battery and alternator are new. I would make sure both are fully plugged in and seated on their connectors, and make sure there's no corrosion or anything. Inspect the vehicle’s battery voltage and connections for corrosion or looseness. Got to the beach and surfed, went to leave and same thing. Quick Google search of a red lightning bolt light that popped on an off indicates electronic throttle control unit. How long has this issue been happening? Customer: just started i was trying to reset Customer: I have a 2012 Jeep Patriot, and occasionally the red lightning bolt indicator lights up. The check engine light is solid, and I changed the oil two days ago. Red lightning bolt is still there. The red lightning bolt symbol indicates that the vehicle's computer detects a lack of communication between the gas pedal and the throttle body. Update Firmware Updating firmware is akin to upgrading the operating system in your Customer: I just had an oil change two days ago, and now the red lightning bolt light has come on, causing the vehicle to die. Two days ago. Any ideas or experience with a similar issue? Jun 23, 2014 · If your 2007 Jeep Wrangler JKU has power but won't start and shows a red lightning bolt symbol (Electronic Throttle Control warning) on the dash, here's a troubleshooting approach: * **Check the battery voltage:** Monitor the voltage while someone attempts to start the engine. First, attempt to reset the throttle sensor by following these instructions. This has happened to me four times now. This can be due to a specific issue or a slight glitch. Learn about its causes, immediate steps to take, and professional diagnostic insights. I'm unable to pull any codes because the battery was recently Apr 25, 2025 · This problem is indicated through the flashing of a red lightning bolt along with an oil-dripping symbol. Aug 15, 2025 · Here is the start of the problem: Jeep initially was having multiple electrical issues with washer motor, door lock fob button not working, headlight intermittent, ionization problems, misfires, crank shaft sensor reading, and an overheating issue. Get local auto repair recommendations and schedule your service today to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly again. We’ll look at the most common reasons why this light comes on and how to fix this issue. Resetting the system by disconnecting the battery for 10 Customer: I have a red lightning bolt and the car won’t start Mechanic's Assistant: I understand your Jeep is showing a red lightning bolt and won't start. I have changed everything it showed was faulty then cleared all May 11, 2023 · Driving can bring unexpected surprises, like the appearance of a red lightning bolt on your car's dashboard. 8 avenger Supercharger, 42RLE auto, Rubicrawler, 05 super Jun 26, 2024 · The lightning bolt symbol on a Jeep Compass indicates a problem with the electronic throttle control system. Mechanic's Assistant: Is the check engine light blinking or flashing, or is it solid? When did you last change the oil? Customer: Solid. jeep shut off & i now have a steady red lightning bolt on dash. Sep 12, 2023 · In some cases, the red lightning bolt might be because of a potential fault rather than a current one. It's a 2015 Wrangler. i can get it to start by feathering gas but then it shuts off. I installed a new throttle body today. I finally left it off for 10 mins and then everything went back to normal, car started and I drove home. After this, start the car and test the throttle response. As I was driving down then road the coolant temperature would Customer: I have a 2011 Grand Cherokee Laredo with a 3. Join now to ask and comment! Stop/Start System Warning Lamp is different than a Start Light. 6 Mechanic's Assistant: Are you fixing your Grand Cherokee yourself? What have LIGHTNING BOLT LIGHT ON DASH FIXED FAST & EASY 2007-2017 JEEP PATRIOT LIMP MODE - NO ACCELERATION FIXED THROTTLE BODY REPLACEMENT 2007-2017 JEEP PATRIOT THROTTLE BODY REPLACEMENT *FIX APPLIES TO Mar 14, 2022 · If the lightning bolt light is on in your Jeep, it could indicate a problem with the electronic throttle control system. Jan 28, 2020 · So as of yesterday I have been getting the red lightning bolt. Customer: I just had an oil change 2 days ago. I have an issue with my 2008 Jeep Patriot Sport 2. Then, after a day or two, it starts without any issues. Nov 7, 2023 · The red lightning bolt on your Jeep Compass’s dash is the electronic throttle control (ETC) warning light. 6L engine that won't crank or start, even though I installed a brand new battery. This can leave you confused and wondering what it means. The car initially malfunctioned while driving, with the check engine and oil The lightning bolt on the dash means that there is a problem with the electronic throttle control system. The original poster found that unplugging and replugging the clutch/gas plugs under the dash resolved the problem. Towed it home. Discover expert solutions for when your car won't start due to the red lightning bolt warning light. Customer: Car was driving great yesterday now my car wont start. It won't start, and the lightning bolt, skidding car, and check engine light are all illuminated when I attempt to start it. After replacing ignition coil, plugs, wires Jul 15, 2025 · Is your Jeep showing a red lightning bolt and refusing to start? Explore simple fixes and tips to troubleshoot the issue quickly and efficiently. Sep 7, 2012 · K, so yesterday my jeep wouldn't start. Customer: My vehicle won’t crank and has a red lightning bolt indicator. Slowly put pressure on the gas pedal before returning it to the resting position. Activating and turning off is normal and the system starting up and testing. Jeep won’t start. Red lightning bolt and won't crank over at all Turn key and nothing, 2013 jeep wrangler jku, Battery is good Jan 28, 2018 · Q: My car would not start but there's a red lightning bolt coming on my dashboard what does that mean The lightning bolt warning light alerts you to a fault in the electronic throttle control system in your vehicle. 2019 Jeep Compass Trailhawk Mechanic's Assistant: Do any lights still turn on? Have you had problems starting it before? Customer: Yes it gets to the position to start before engine kicks on. The lightning bolt, the skidding car, and the check engine light are on when I try. 6. I checked the codes immediately with superchips flashpaq. Be me and all look good. It won’t start. How do you fix a red lightning bolt on a jeep? Flashing of a red lightning bolt in a Jeep compass, patriot, or wrangler is a common issue. I was having an issue with the right wheel sensor and the throttle body causing it to throw codes, then eventually no start and lightning bolt solid on. The red lightning bolt came on and the Jeep died. please like this video :) Facebook: / ghostlyrich Was driving the hemi jeep when all of a sudden bam warning light pops up with the red lightening bolt and check engine light. See full list on jeepzine. The red lightning bolt light comes on, then after about 10 seconds it starts blinking. Rinse, repeat 4-5 times. Could you tell me the year and model of your Jeep? Customer: 2008 Sahara 4 door Mechanic's Assistant: Thanks for sharing that it's a 2008 Sahara 4-door. Vehicle was working perfectly and without warning got the red lightning bolt, engine light, anti-skid warning, and immediately the engine went to limp mode (couldn't exceed 3000rpm, or 20km/h whichever comes first. A lot of carbon buildup. This may Discover more answers I just cleaned my electronic throttle control on 2018 Jeep Cherokee 3. No engine light or anything else, is it possible it is a sensor somewhere or do i have to replace the throttle body? Backstory: bought a Jeep Patriot 2015 (i know i know) for very cheap knowing it would need work, 135k miles replaced several things thus far and hasn’t been too bad at all after 2 months of driving, red lightning bolt came up, putting it into limp mode (couldn’t accel over 35mph) turned engine off, found a fix on google to depress the pedal x number of times for x amount of time and it Oct 11, 2025 · Red Lightning Bolt on Dash Car Won’T Start If you see a red lightning bolt on your dash, it means that there is a problem with your car’s electrical system. A solid red lightning bolt with check engine light on the 2011 Jeep Cherokee indicates an immobilizer or security system fault. This needs immediate attention. 7 about 3 weeks ago. In some of the newer jeeps the gas and break pedals are adjustable so they use an electronic system instead of the old fashioned cable setup Nov 15, 2023 · Hi, I’m back again. One potential solution is to reset the system by turning the key to the 'on' position without starting the car, then fully depressing the gas pedal and releasing it. This pro Jul 8, 2025 · Start the jeep’s engine and check and see if the red lightning bolt has gone away. But when you Google that… it says “Red lightning bolt of death”, which not only sounds awful, but from reading message boards, it also clear that it can come on for a number of reasons — including battery, faulty wiring, air detection, etc. We replaced the throttle body (because it’s not warrantied) and that’s the code that came up. It ran perfectly the day before. it is the only light on. The second week I had it the red lighting bolt came on. Here, we explain to you what it means & what to do. This system is known as Electronic Throttle Control, or ETC for short. Red Lightning Bolt? Jump to Latest 10K views 1 reply 2 participants last post by zoner99 Feb 22, 2018 D DebifromCumb Discussion starter 2 posts · Joined 2018 #1 ·Feb 18, 2018 When driving a jeep compass the lightning bolt warning light can come on. 2L. Got it Oct 8, 2024 · Learn why your Jeep won't start when you see a red lightning bolt warning light. The red lighting bolt Aug 12, 2019 · The red lightning bolt is referring to the ETC, electronic throttle control. I can start it, but it is immediately in limp mode, idling rough with almost no throttle response. If it stays on, it is a problem. It came up with a red lightning bolt light on the dash and a check engine light as well. This action essentially gives your car’s system a fresh start, much like how turning off and then on again your laptop might resolve minor glitches. Turning the Mar 22, 2020 · I just bought a 06 grand Cherokee limited hemi 5. Dec 11, 2022 · In this video I will tell you what I did to fix the red lightning bolt no heat issue that I was experiencing in my Jeep Wrangler JK. Nov 20, 2019 · The red lightening bolt, traction control, my auto shut off and start light and check engine. Find out how to fix the problem step-by-step. This ominous symbol is more than just a quirky icon; it's a critical warning about your vehicle's Electronic Throttle Control system. Discover more answers Red lightning bolt.