Many modern cars resemble the cockpit of a jet airliner as they are equipped with a vast array of sophisticated dashboard warning lights that alert drivers to various issues.
Understanding what all of these symbols and notifications are saying can be quite a task, but it’s important to be able to decipher what your dashboard is telling you so you can act accordingly.
One solution would be to take your vehicle to someone like Keith Schulz Garage so they can run diagnostic tests to identify any specific issues that are impacting your car’s performance. It will also help to have an idea of what the warning signs of your dashboard are telling you.
Here’s a rundown of some of the most common warning lights, what they mean, and what you should do if they illuminate on your dashboard.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is one of the most well-known symbols and can indicate a wide range of issues, from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem. It often appears as an amber engine icon or simply says “Check Engine.”
If the light is steady, it’s usually safe to continue driving but schedule a diagnostic check as soon as possible. If it’s flashing, pull over and get your vehicle inspected immediately as it may indicate a severe issue. You could damage your car if you continue to drive with this warning light flashing.
Battery Warning Light
The battery warning light, often shown as a battery icon, indicates an issue with your car’s charging system, such as a failing alternator or a dead battery.
First of all, check your battery connections. If they’re tight and secure, have your charging system tested to ensure your car isn’t suddenly losing power.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light usually appears as an oil can dripping a droplet and indicates low oil pressure, which can cause potential damage to the engine.
It’s best to pull over as soon as it’s safe, turn off the engine, and check the oil level. If you find it is low, add oil. If the light remains on, have your car inspected right away to avoid the prospect of expensive engine damage.
Temperature Warning Light
A thermometer symbol usually indicates your engine is overheating, which can cause severe damage if the problem is not addressed immediately.
Your first line of defense should be to turn off the air conditioning, turn on the heater to draw heat away from the engine, and pull over. Let the engine cool, before checking the coolant level to see if it is where it should be.
Brake System Warning Light
You might see a light that says BRAKE or displays an exclamation mark in a circle. This may be alerting you to the fact that your brake fluid level is low, or you have a problem with the brake system.
Check your brake fluid level without delay. If it’s normal, the problem may lie within the braking system itself, so get your vehicle inspected urgently.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Warning Light
The ABS light signals a problem with the anti-lock braking system, which prevents the wheels from locking up during braking.
You should be aware that in this scenario your brakes will still work, but the anti-lock feature may not. Drive carefully and have your brakes checked as soon as possible.
Airbag Warning Light
This light is often displayed as an icon of a person with an airbag. It is designed to indicate an issue with your car’s airbag system, meaning it may not deploy in an accident.
Have your airbag system inspected immediately, as this affects your vehicle’s safety features.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light
A light shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation point signals low tire pressure.
Check the pressure in all four tires and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the light stays on, you may have a faulty TPMS sensor, or a puncture in one of the tires.
Traction Control Warning Light
This light, usually shown as a car with wavy skid marks underneath, indicates that the traction control system is active or that there’s an issue with the system.
If the light blinks, it is telling you that the system is working to improve traction. If it stays on, have the system inspected.
Stability Control Light
The stability control light, often depicted as a car with wavy lines behind it, warns of a possible issue with the stability control system.
If you see this, drive carefully, especially on slippery surfaces, and have your stability control system inspected as soon as possible.
Steering Wheel Lock Warning Light
This symbol often appears as a steering wheel with an exclamation mark and indicates that the steering wheel lock mechanism is malfunctioning.
If you’re unable to turn the key or start the car, try gently jiggling the steering wheel while turning the key. If this doesn’t fix the problem, or it persists, get a mechanic to take a look..
Glow Plug Warning Light
You will only see this indicator on your dashboard if you are driving a diesel car. This symbol, which looks like a coil, indicates that the glow plugs in the engine need time to warm up.
This is a simple fix. Wait until the light turns off before starting the engine.However, if it stays on after starting, the glow plugs may need replacing.
Fuel Indicator Light
When the fuel gauge symbol lights up, quite simply, it means you’re running low on fuel.
Refill your tank as soon as possible. It is always best to avoid driving on empty to prevent debris from entering your fuel system.
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
A light showing a windshield with spray usually indicates that your windshield washer fluid needs topping up.
Refill your washer fluid reservoir without delay. You need to be able to clear your screen to maintain visibility during poor weather conditions.
Door Ajar Warning Light
This symbol is usually shaped like a car with open doors. It is intended to indicate that a door, hood, or trunk is open.
Make sure all doors, the hood, and the trunk are securely closed before driving off.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light
A thermometer icon within a gear symbol suggests your transmission fluid is overheating, which can lead to damage if it is not investigated.
You should pull over, let the transmission cool down, and check the fluid levels if possible.
Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light
An icon that resembles a lightning bolt through a sideways plate signals a problem with the electronic throttle control system.
If you notice sluggish acceleration or the car enters “limp” mode, get your vehicle checked without delay. Restarting the car may clear it temporarily, but the issue needs to be addressed.
Headlight or Tail Light Indicator
This symbol, which often resembles a light bulb or headlight, alerts you when a headlight, taillight, or other external light is not functioning.
When you see this symbol, check all your exterior lights and replace any that are burned out. You need all of your lights working to ensure visibility and safety, and to comply with the law.
By understanding these warning signs and symbols and addressing issues as soon as they arise, you can keep your car running smoothly. Any urgent warnings or unexplained problems should be checked by a diagnostic centre immediately.
Leave a Reply