As a Jeep Driver, you notice the Jeep Dash Light A with Exclamation Point come on. Even worse, you may have no idea what it means. This guide will explain everything you need to know about this specific warning light.
But what does this mean? The Jeep Dash Light A with Exclamation Point indicates a problem with your vehicle’s Stop/Start System. When this happens, take it to a Jeep service center or a qualified mechanic as they’ll quickly figure out and fix the issue.
You may be unsure of why this is coming on or know what to do next. This can be triggered due to a variety of issues.
Understanding the Jeep Dash Light A with Exclamation Point
This light (also known as the Service Stop/Start Warning Light) is common in several different Jeep vehicles. They include the Jeep Compass, Jeep Cherokee, and Jeep Wrangler.
This warning light is essential to your vehicle’s diagnostic system – continuously monitoring various aspects of its performance.
It will ensure optimal and efficient functioning so it runs smoothly every time. You’re using your Jeep for regular commutes to and from work. And even running errands as well.
So it’s always a good idea to consider ensuring your Jeep is in good shape. This includes taking it to a local mechanic regularly for routine maintenance and inspection.
Whatever You Do – Don’t Panic!
If you see the A with Exclamation Point warning light it can be a cause for alarm. The important thing to remember is to not panic. That’s because the issue it may be indicating could be a minor one.
It can be easy to resolve on your own. But it takes the necessary steps to diagnose and fix the problem. Using a diagnostics tool while consulting the owner’s manual for the necessary codes is key.
That’s because it will give you an indication of what’s wrong. The corresponding code will reveal which issue is triggering the light. From there, you will be able to tell if it’s minor or major.
Minor issues can be solved on your own. However, a certified mechanic in your area will need to look at major ones. As we have stressed before – the sooner you have it looked at, the better.
What Are the Common Issues and Warning Lights in Jeep Vehicles?
Aside from the A with arrow around it jeep, you’ll want to be aware of plenty of warning lights.
Each one indicates a certain issue – minor or major. Let’s take a look at the following down below:
1. Check the Engine Light
The dreaded, infamous check engine light. This is the catch-all warning that will light up for whatever purpose.
It can be anything from a loose gas cap to a faulty oxygen sensor. More severe problems can trigger this light.
Again, minor issues can allow this light to activate. Just because it’s minor, doesn’t mean it can be ignored. This can lead to major damage to your engine and other parts of the vehicle.
One of the leading causes of death for vehicles is engine failure. Don’t let it happen to your Jeep.
2. Stop/System Warning Light
At this point, you already have an idea of what it is. But in case you forgot, the light represents an issue with the stop/start system. This can affect fuel efficiency and emissions.
Diagnosing and addressing this issue promptly will be essential for your vehicle’s operation. Failure to do so leads to unnecessary fuel consumption.
3. Battery Light
The battery light indicates an issue with the charging system of your Jeep. A weak battery, faulty alternator, or loose connection can trigger this. This warning light must not be ignored.
That’s because it can lead to a drained battery – which can lead to potential breakdowns. You want the battery and the charging system to be looked at by a professional. They will be able to track down the underlying cause.
It is also important to check the battery regularly. It should be inspected twice a year or every 6000 miles, whichever comes first. A battery can be replaced every 3 to 5 years depending on how much use you put in your vehicle.
4. Oil Pressure Warning Light
This will come on if the engine oil pressure is low. Such issues include low oil levels, oil leaks, or a malfunctioning oil pump. Insufficient oil pressure can lead to engine damage.
For this reason, you need to get it to a professional as soon as possible – especially if the issue persists. Check the oil level and find any visible leaks.
5. Temperature Warning Light
The temperature warning light indicates that the engine is overheating.
Such underlying issues that cause include a faulty thermostat, a cooling system leak, a malfunctioning radiator fan, or a broken water pump.
Never drive with an overheated engine as it will cause severe damage.
If you are dealing with an overheated engine, pull over and allow the engine to cool. Inspect the cooling system or seek professional help. Eventually, the latter option will be more of a requirement because of how serious the issue is.
6. Brake System Warning Light
The Brake System Warning Light will come on if you have issues with the brake system. Low brake fluid levels, worn brake pads, or issues with the ABS will trigger this.
Since breaks are critical for your safety, it need to be inspected immediately if and when this light comes on.
7. Transmission Warning Light
This will indicate transmission problems. Specifically, you might be dealing with low transmission fluid levels, transmission overheating, or electronic control issues.
Delayed action can cause the issue to get worse. Please address the issue immediately if and when this light comes on.
8. TPMS Warning Light
This indicates the tire pressure monitoring system. If you are dealing with low air pressure in your tires, this light will trigger. Please check your tires regularly.
The PSI of your tires will depend on the model Jeep you are driving. For example, a Jeep Cherokee will need anywhere from 36 to 38 PSI while a Jeep Compass needs 35 PSI for the front tires and 32 for the rear.
Please consult your owner’s manual if you are unsure of how much PSI your Jeep tires need.
A with Circle and Exclamation Point Warning: What Now?
Taking action soon will make a difference. The last thing you want to do is ignore the warning light and make the problem any worse. Therefore, you want to do the following:
1. Check the Owner’s Manual
Your Jeep Owner’s Manual will be a valuable resource that can provide insights into the meaning of various warning lights.
It will offer suggestions on what to do if there is a certain warning light coming on.
As such, you will also look for any diagnostic codes that will indicate a specific problem.
2. Restart Your Jeep
If a minor glitch in the system occurs, it can trigger the warning light. Try turning off your Jeep and restart it to see if it goes away or persists.
3. Check the Battery
A weak or faulty battery can often cause the warning lights to come on. It’s important that you check your battery to ensure it’s in good condition and holding a proper charge.
4. Seek Professional Assistance
If the warning light continues to stay illuminated after exercising all the steps above, it’s a serious issue.
Take it to a certified Jeep service center or a qualified mechanic. They have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and fix the problem.
Jeep Compass: What’s the “A with Circle and Exclamation Point” for?
The A with Circle and Exclamation Point Light in a Jeep Compass typically indicates an issue with the Stop/Start System. This system is designed to automatically turn off your engine when your vehicle comes to a complete stop. It’s designed to conserve fuel.
The engine restarts when you release the brake pedal. However, if a problem occurs with this system, the warning light will illuminate to alert you.
What If I Drive a Jeep Cherokee? Does This Still Happen?
Yes. Jeep Cherokee owners will have this same warning light equipped in their vehicles. It serves a similar purpose compared to their Compass model. You will be warned of a malfunction in the Stop/Start System.
Again, if this warning light is present – the problem needs to be addressed promptly with a local mechanic. Then, the optimal performance will be restored and maintained.
Is the A with a Circle and Exclamation Point Light in a Jeep Wrangler?
Yes. A Jeep Wrangler will have this same warning light. Therefore, it is important to be aware of it if you notice it lighting up. It can be due to the same issues other Jeeps can experience when you are driving.
That is why you must acknowledge it and take care of the vehicle accordingly. The sooner you have it scheduled for maintenance with a local mechanic, the better. It would not be wise to ignore it the moment it comes on.
The reason is obvious. Any mechanical or other issues with your vehicle can’t be ignored. It can lead to even worse problems for your Jeep.
It will make the difference between spending a small amount on early detection and repairs and thousands on critical ones. Do your part to save time, money, and frustration by making sure a mechanic checks your Jeep the moment the A with a Circle and Exclamation Point light kicks on.
Conclusion
A Jeep Dash Light A with Exclamation Point needs to be tended to as soon as possible. Because it will indicate an issue with your Jeep that must be taken care of by a certified mechanic.
It is one of many warning lights that will serve as indicators of ongoing issues.
The sooner you deal with them, the better. Your Jeep is your best friend on the road. Needless to say, it takes you places you need to go to. So don’t neglect the care and maintenance it needs to function properly.
We hope this guide has been helpful.
Did your Jeep Dash Light A with Exclamation Point come on? If so, were you able to get it serviced?
We have a 2020 Jeep GC 45,000 miles. recently took it on a trip from Florida to NC. A couple of days into the trip The (A)! light appeared on the dash. Soon after the check engine light appeared and shortly after the CEL started flashing.
We had the Jeep towed to the closest Jeep dealership as it is still under warranty. Codes PO174 PO300 P2098 were given from the CEL at auto zone prior to going to the dealership. Same codes were found at the dealership. The dealership for some reason determined that the Jeep needed a new right head, gaskets, spark plugs and water pump. They replaced those parts and released the Jeep back to us knowing we were heading back to Florida. We made it less than 10 minutes down the road and the Jeep had the same issues. We returned the Jeep and the following day they read the codes again and they were exactly the same codes. Then they moved to changing the oxygen sensor 3 times. Finally looked at the AUX battery and determined it was bad. Replaced the battery and everything seems to be repaired!?? Although I am not sure as the jeep is still in NC because 13 days in the shop, I could not wait any longer to get back home. I am not confident that the motor work was the issue and feel like they should have addressed the (A)! light and the codes form the CEL first. They are not providing me with a logical explanation as to what led them to replace the head and other work first. Does that sound like a normal diagnostic to you? I also was out of pocket $1200 while the Jeep was still under the drivetrain warranty and we purchased a platinum 100,000 mile bumper to bumper extended warranty that had a $200 deductible.
That does not seem to be an appropriate or logical diagnosis. The warning lights/codes you had; lean condition, misfire and the (A)! light) is most often due to a bad AUX battery or an oxygen sensor, not something major like a cylinder head.
The dealership should have looked at the AUX battery and sensors in the first place. Replacing the head, spark plugs, and water pump and not addressing the issue is bad diagnostics. The same codes reappearing immediately following repair indicate the initial repair did not address the underlying issue.
Also, it doesn’t make sense for you to be charged $1200 because your Jeep is under warranty and only has a $200 deductible. You need to ask the dealership for the complete breakdown and contact Jeep or your warranty company to check the charges.
It seems you were ripped off by doing repairs you didn’t need .