Car Dashboard Light Guide
What Common Dashboard Lights Mean
Modern automobiles have a lot of dashboard lights, and the number is increasing. The Check Engine Light and the Low Fuel Light are two common lights that most drivers are aware of, but there are plenty others. Knowing what to do when one illuminates on your dash is crucial.
One of the most typical lights that drivers will see is the check engine light, often known as the "Service Engine Soon" light.
A check engine light on your car could mean a lot of different things. A loose gas cap can be the cause. The light often flashes when a significant issue has been identified, but it might possibly be something more serious.
It's crucial to bring your automobile to a dealership or a service center so they can do diagnostics and identify the issue.
Tire Pressure Light
When a tire is underinflated, which can occur when it gets chilly outside or when you have a leak or puncture, your tire pressure light will illuminate. In some vehicles, using a gauge to check each tire's pressure separately is the only way to determine which tire is low.
Some vehicles even feature a readout that shows the pressure in each tire at the moment. Some vehicles have indicators that indicate which tires are low.
A tire pressure light may merely show that the pressure has fallen, but it may also signal that the tire is rapidly losing air. You should halt in order to inspect the tire's condition for this reason. Using a pressure light, you can simply say
When a tire pressure indicator light flashes, there can be an issue with the system as a whole. Hire a mechanic to examine it.
Door Open Light
A car’s door open light alerts you that a door is open. Many cars have a chime that persists when a door is open as well. This light is particularly helpful when a door appears closed but is really still ajar.
Trunk/Hatch Open Light
The trunk/hatch light glows when the trunk or hatch is open or ajar.
Seat-Belt Reminder Light
A seat belt reminder light glows until the driver and passengers put their seat belts on. There’s often a chime that accompanies the light.
Oil Pressure Light & Oil Change Reminder Light
An issue with the engine's oil circulation is indicated by the oil light: Either the oil level is low, or the pressure could be low for another reason. There is a crisis here. Your engine could suffer irreparable damage if you ignore this signal. As soon as it's safe to do so, turn off the engine and have your automobile towed to the closest repair shop.
There may be an oil change reminder light on your automobile as well. An oil change reminder light does not signal an emergency, unlike the oil pressure light. When your oil needs to be changed, it turns on. The OEM programs the light to turn on after a specific number of miles have been traveled or after a specific amount of time. After the oil has been changed, it has to be reset. The owner's manual for your car will list recommended oil change intervals.
Low Fuel Light
The low fuel light comes on when your vehicle’s fuel level is near empty. Different cars have different thresholds for triggering the low fuel light, though no matter which car you are driving, there’s usually at least one gallon left once the light glows. Stop as soon as it’s safe to refuel your car.
Engine Coolant Temperature Light
Your engine overheats and the engine coolant temperature light illuminates. As soon as it is safe to do so, pull over, turn off your automobile, and call for assistance if you notice this light glowing amber or red.
The coolant is too cold if the indicator goes blue. Before accelerating quickly, you should let your engine warm up to prevent premature engine wear. When the temperature is at the ideal level, the blue light will go out.
Brake Pad Symbol
Brake pad symbol, also known as brake pad wear warning lights, has a yellow circle with 3 dashed lines on both sides of the circle symbol. It is a fairly new addition to modern cars and usually found in higher end cars. When this indicator is on, it means that your vehicle brake pads are too thin and about to worn out. It usually gives you an early warning indication to prevent any damages. You can safely continue on driving for a short amount of time, but remember to have it replaced as soon as possible by the mechanic for an ultimate safe drive.
Battery Light
There are several reasons your battery light may illuminate: If you’re parked and your car isn’t running, the battery light is usually illuminated to remind you that the accessories are running on battery power.
If you remain parked for too long without starting the car, the accessories could eventually drain the battery since the alternator isn’t running to keep it charged.
The battery light can illuminate while you’re driving. If this happens, there’s either a problem with the battery or the alternator. Get it checked out as soon as possible because the battery could die and leave you stranded.