Dashboard Warnings Decoded
Every dashboard warning light is a message from your car to signal that something needs attention. But how do you know which ones need immediate attention and which can wait? Well, this distinction could be a matter of life or death for your car—so you must know the difference! Let's break down the most important dashboard warning lights so you can stay safe and avoid costly surprises.
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
The oil pressure warning light indicates the engine's oil pressure is too low. This could be due to low oil levels, a broken oil pump, or a clogged oil filter. Without proper lubrication, engine components can overheat and suffer irreversible damage, directly leading to costly repairs or total engine failure.
4 Reasons For Low Oil Pressure Light by MaxTheCarGuy
What To Do
When this light appears, the first step is to use the dipstick to check the oil level. You should add the recommended oil to resolve the issue if it's low. If the light remains on even after adding oil, you must stop driving immediately and seek professional assistance.
How to Fix a Low Oil Pressure Light in Your Car by Scotty Kilmer
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning means that one or more tires are underinflated. Low tire pressure reduces fuel efficiency and raises the risk of blowouts, especially at high speeds. The issue may arise from temperature changes or natural air loss.
Turn OFF Tire pressure warning light Turn off TPMS by Danny Johnson’s Garage
What To Do
You should check the air pressure of all four tires using a pressure gauge. When the tires are underinflated, the simplest thing to do is inflate them to the correct pressure. If the warning light does not disappear after inflation, try resetting the TPMS system.
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3. Traction Control Warning Light
This light will flash when the vehicle's traction control system is active or malfunctioning. The system prevents wheel spin on slippery roads by adjusting engine power and braking each wheel. A persistent light can mean a faulty wheel speed sensor, control module issues, or electrical faults.
Toyota Check Vehicle Stability Control System Fix #short by Nestor Auto Repair
What To Do
Since the light flickers only when driving on slippery surfaces, it suggests the system is on and requires no further action. So, when the light remains on for a long time, you should drive slowly and cautiously, as your vehicle may struggle with stability on certain roads.
4. ABS Warning Light
Brakes should never be a mystery. The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps maintain control during sudden stops. While standard braking usually works, ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking. The real risk isn't just in emergency braking but in slippery conditions where locked wheels can cause skidding.
ABS WARNING LIGHT ON? FIX IT IN 3 EASY STEPS by 2CarPros
What To Do
Start by checking the brake fluid level, as low fluid can sometimes trigger the warning. Test braking at a low speed in a safe location to determine any noticeable issues. If braking feels inconsistent or unusually soft or stiff, avoid heavy traffic and visit a mechanic as soon as possible.
Check Engine Light On in Your Car? The Truth About What it Means by Scotty Kilmer
5. Check Engine Light
The check engine light (CEL) signals various engine problems, such as a loose gas cap or a broken catalytic converter. Before deciding your next move, see if there are more symptoms like rough idling, unusual noises, or excessive exhaust smoke.
Check Engine Light On in Your Car? The Truth About What it Means by Scotty Kilmer
What To Do
Check the gas cap. A loose or improperly sealed cap can trigger the warning, and tightening it may resolve the issue. Also, the car's performance should be monitored for signs like rough idling or increased fuel consumption. Some issues can wait, but others need immediate attention.
Gas Cap Solves Check Engine Light by ItsFixable
6. Battery Warning Light
A dead battery is inconvenient, but a failing alternator is worse. This light indicates an issue with the charging system, meaning the battery is not recharging properly. It can be due to damaged cables, a weak battery, or a bad voltage regulator.
What to Do if You Have A Battery Warning Light Appearing on Your Dashboard by LoLos-EZ-Fix
What To Do
When you see this light, minimize the use of electrical components such as the radio and air conditioning to conserve battery power. You should also check the battery terminals for rust. Then, take the car to professionals before it becomes undrivable.
Battery Light On In Your Car "Here Is What To Do" by Flat Rate Mechanic
7. Low Fuel Warning Light
More than an inconvenience, running out of fuel can also damage the fuel pump. This warning light will be triggered when the fuel level is dangerously low. Driving with minimal fuel can cause the pump to overheat, leading to failure. Additionally, debris at the bottom of the tank can clog the fuel system over time.
What To Do
You should refuel as soon as possible to avoid running out of gas. Try to adjust your refueling habits by keeping at least a quarter tank of fuel at all times. Never let it reach critically low levels. Otherwise, you'll be making unexpected pit stops.
How-to Refuel Your Toyota Mirai | Toyota by Toyota USA
8. Airbag Warning Light
Safety shouldn't be a gamble. This warning suggests an error in the airbag system, which means the system might not deploy in an accident. Reasons might be faulty sensors, wiring issues, or previous airbag deployment that wasn't reset.
Air Bag Light Flashing, How to diagnose and fix by ChrisFix
What To Do
Since the airbag system is a critical safety feature, don't ignore this warning light. A professional scan is necessary to determine the cause of the issue. The airbags may fail to deploy when an accident occurs while this warning is active. It's best to have the system inspected and repaired immediately.
How to Perform a Vehicle Inspection by mccsyuma
9. Brake Warning Light
This light warrants attention, whether a simple parking brake reminder or a sign of failing brake components. Low brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, or a faulty master cylinder might be the cause. A spongy brake pedal usually means air in the brake lines, and ignoring it could lead to longer stopping distances or brake failure.
What To Do
First, ensure the parking brake is fully released, as this is the most common reason for the warning. Check the brake fluid level to see whether the parking brake is not the issue. If you notice the pedal feels soft or the brake is inconsistent, stop driving and have the brakes checked immediately.
Brake Warning Light on Car Dash How to Fix by PS Automotive
10. Coolant Level Warning Light
This light signals that coolant levels are too low, which can overheat the engine. Overheating leads to warped engine components, blown gaskets, or severe damage. It mostly happens when there is a leak, a failing radiator, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
What is the Blue Light on my Subaru Dashboard? by Nate Wade Subaru
What To Do
Stop the car to cool down the engine, then check the coolant level. You should never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot because hot coolant can cause severe burns. Adding coolant may temporarily fix the problem if the level is low.
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