What Are Some Common Dash Warning Lights? Elysian Auto Service

 


What Are Some Common Dash Warning Lights?


We have all been there, driving down the road and minding our own business when a dash warning light suddenly pops on. You might have known the meaning, and maybe even the cause right away. Or if you are like me, you might have no idea! Dash warning lights can be scary, the last thing you want is to have your vehicle brake down. Being informed about what specific warning lights mean will help ease some stress and you will be more knowledgeable about what is going on with your vehicle. 


Check Engine: This light could mean dozens of different things. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap, or as serious as a major mechanical issue. The check engine light relates to the vehicle's emissions system and the motor. It is important to note when it came on, and if you noticed anything else out of the ordinary going on with your vehicle at the time. This can help your mechanic pinpoint what is going on. 


Oil Pressure: This light will come on if your vehicle's oil pressure is low. There are multiple different reasons your engine could be low on oil. The vehicle may just need to be topped off, but odds are if you are losing oil that there is a bigger issue to address. Driving with this light on and not taking action puts your engine at risk. Be sure to take care of this right away.


Air Bag: Did you know, that if your airbag warning light is on your vehicle will NOT deploy your airbags! Even if you were to get in an accident. When your airbag system displays this light, it automatically turns itself off. It is very important to have this light checked asap, in order to get your airbag system turned back on. A lot of times it is an electrical issue, or possibly a wire.   


Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Most of us in Minnesota are familiar with this light! It might come on the morning after the first cold night of the season. The light alerts you when your tire pressure is too low or high. If this light comes on, check all of your tire pressures, you may need some air. Most vehicles have a sticker on the inside of the driver door jam, which lists the manufacturer-recommended pressure to inflate your tires too. 


Coolant Temperature: This one is cause for immediate alarm! Coolant helps cool your engine and keep it running at a safe temperature. If your coolant isn’t cooling, your engine can and will overheat. If this light comes on, be sure to pull over immediately and turn off your vehicle. Be VERY careful if you choose to open the hood, it will be very hot and could cause burns. Odds are you will need a tow to a repair shop so they can figure out what is going on with your cooling system and check for any engine damage. 


Traction Control: You may have seen this light a few times, especially on an icy road in the winter. This light will turn on when your vehicle kicks your traction control system on. The system's job is to help you keep control of your vehicle and prevent you from slipping and sliding.  


Brake System: This light comes on when a component of your braking system needs attention. It could be that you left your parking brake on, or possibly an issue with your anti-locking braking system (ABS.) 


Battery: This is one of the easier lights to identify. Odds are you see this light when your car won’t start. It could be an issue with the battery itself or something simple like headlights getting left on.


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