What does a lightning bolt symbol mean on a 2014 Dodge Journey?

Q: There is a red lightning bolt light that has came on my dash. What does this mean?

The light on the dash is coming on. The one that looks like a red lightning volt. What does this mean?
My car has an automatic transmission.

What does a lightning bolt symbol mean on a 2014 Dodge Journey?

Hi there. The lightning bolt on the dash means that there is a problem with the electronic throttle control system in your vehicle. Get a code reader and scan the engine for any logged codes. The light may be on for a glitch and the electronic throttle control system needs to be reset. To reset the electronic throttle control system, perform the following:

  • Insert ignition key and turn to "ON" position but do not start the engine
  • Wait for all the warning lights to go out. The check engine light may remain on.
  • Slowly depress the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor.
  • Slowly release the accelerator pedal until it is all the way back up at the rest position.
  • Turn the ignition key to "OFF" position.
  • Start the engine and test the throttle by see if the engine will throttle up.

You would need to repeat this procedure any time the battery is disconnected or replaced. If there are any codes in the computer they may relate to the gas pedal position sensor, which could cause the lightning bolt to appear. If you need further assistance with the lightning bolt indicator lighting up on the dash, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Air suspension not working

Hi there, with the Airmatic malfunction the car is telling you the tire pressure is low probably causing a flat tire. A nail or small leak would allow you to hear the tire releasing air. A qualified mechanic, like one...

What are the three most common levels of tint?

Hi there, thanks for asking us to help you with your science project. The popularity of window tint will depend on the US State in which the individual lives. The national average of window tint percentage is around 50% window...

I have a short that drains the battery overnight.

There is a parasitic load applied to your battery with the ignition is off. Keep the test light on the battery and turn on one thing at a time and watch the light. If the light goes out, then that...

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Massage Therapist

If If you're a massage therapist, one of the cornerstones of your business has to be that you don’t keep your clients waiting. That means you need a vehicle that’s reliable. You also will have to move your gear, including...


What does a lightning bolt mean on a 2014 Dodge Journey?

The lightning bolt on the dash means that there is a problem with the electronic throttle control system in your vehicle. Get a code reader and scan the engine for any logged codes. The light may be on for a glitch and the electronic throttle control system needs to be reset.

What does a lightning bolt on my dashboard mean?

The lightning bolt warning light alerts you to a fault in the electronic throttle control system in your vehicle. This may be a faulty throttle body, the throttle body sensor or possibly the throttle body control motor which is what controls the opening and closing of the throttle body as the motor requires more fuel.

Can I drive with the throttle control warning light on?

Driving with a flashing electronic throttle control light can cause further damage to the vehicle's engine and other internal parts, and may be a safety hazard for drivers.