car warning lights
Car Warning Lights
Understanding your Dashboard Warning Lights can save you money You should know your vehicle warning lights. The owner’s manual contains detailed information you should read. Here is some general information that will help you understand most models. Especially when you don’t have time to study the manual.
Every driver knows the basics of driving. So this brief overview of the car’s warning lights may help you save money on car repairs or worse, a roadside breakdown.
Common Problems and Solutions
Engine Warning Light
Description: Looks like the outline of an engine with an exclamation point.
What to do If you notice this light has turned on or is flashing, it means you have a general problem with your engine. If you see the light flashing while you are driving then slow down, it may just quit.
If the light stays on you can attempt a reset by turning your vehicle off and waiting for 2 minutes. Often it a simple fix, try tightening the cap to the fuel tank. If the this doesn’t rectify the issue, then head to your favorite garage to have it serviced. Repairing or replacing a catalytic converter is just one possible expense.
Brake System Warning Light
Description: Looks like a circle with two thicker lines on the outside like brake pads. There is an exclamation point in the circle.
What to do, This light has a dual meaning. First, you may have left the handbrake engaged. Easy fix, check to see that you have not left emergency brake on, if not then you may need to add brake fluid.
Park in a safe spot and on level ground. If you see, it’s low then try topping it to the “max” level. If you have a proper amount of fluid, and you still have a warning. There may be a sensor issue or some other problem within the brake system. Brake issues are famous for going up in price as time passes with the problem unchecked.
Battery Charge Warning Light
Description: Looks like a car battery with two terminals on top.
What to do, when this light illuminates you could have three possible issues. The first issue is a bad battery or terminal. The second possibility is the alternator has failed. Third if your belt has broken this is a major problem. Driving beyond what is necessary for safety can damage expensive parts of the engine. Turn off the engine as soon as possible. Better yet being towed to the next available garage would be smart in this instance.
ABS and Brake System Warning Light
Description: Looks like two circles with thicker lines on the outsides. You can see the letters ABS and an exclamation mark.
If the ABS warning light illuminates while you are driving, it indicates an issue with the anti-lock braking system. If this happens, you’re nonetheless equipped to make use of your brakes, but without the presence of a added advantage of the anti-lock function. In many situations, the light will turn off the next time you start your automobile.If, after it processes thru its self-test, the light remains on, it is critical to plan and scheduled an appointment with an auto expert, where they can perform a diagnostic to find out what is causing the issue.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
Description: Looks like a teapot style oil can with a drop of oil.
What to do, this issue is more engine specific so keep your owner’s manual handy. The most common problem is believe it or not low oil. Park on a level area and check the oil, top up if necessary. Running your car low on oil can be very harmful and expensive, the metal to metal grinding can be costly if left untreated over time. Or worse. If your light does not stop after you have proper oil level, you should not restart your engine. Problems in the pressure oil system can be a simple. A damaged engine from lack of oil will be expensive.