WARNING LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD – INDICATOR LIGHTS
Your car’s Dashboard Warning Lights and Indicator Lights Explained
Dashboard Warning Lights or Indicator lights that appear from time to time help keep you informed of what’s happening with your car. They provide you the insight you need to keep you safe and your car performing its best.
The warning lights or indicator lights provide insight on a range of things from ‘Check Engine Light’ to ‘Door Ajar’. There’s even a warning light if you’ve accidentally left your parking brake on.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most common dashboard warning or indicator lights to help explain what they mean to you, the car owner. Keep in mind that not every vehicle includes every light. That will depend on the specific equipment on your car.
When the malfunction is determined by your car’s onboard computer system, it triggers the warning light on your dashboard. The OBD2 codes will have to be read with proper diagnostic tools.
The warning light can be triggered for several different reasons – ranging from a dirty wheel sensor to the loss of voltage. When the light is on, the ABS or Anti-Lock brake system is disabled. You will continue to have normal brake operation, but the ABS will not be restored until your vehicle is serviced.
Other, more serious reasons the brake light warning indicator goes on could be the lack of hydraulic pressure or low brake fluid level – both require immediate attention.
Brake fluid leaks are very dangerous. They can contaminate other brake system components or cause a total failure of your car’s brakes – without notice. If you are unsure about the reason the brake light warning indicator is on, it is safest to stop driving your car and have it towed in for service.
That check engine light warning indicator could mean a variety of problems. Those problems could be something as simple as a loose gas cap – to more serious issues like a faulty catalytic converter.
Once triggered, your car’s computer records and stores the fault code (also known as OBD2 code). That code details the nature of the problem – but may not pinpoint the exact cause. That’s why just knowing the fault code may not be enough to actually repair the problem.
The code will have to be retrieved with special computer diagnostic equipment. When your car’s check engine light or service engine soon warning indicator is on, you should book a service appointment to have it corrected. A flashing check engine light could be a potentially dangerous problem. See more information about the Check Engine light or book your next service appointment online right now.
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Low oil pressure could be the result of a leak or your engine burning oil. Check your oil levels with a dipstick and add motor oil if needed. If your light stays on, we advise that you call for a tow. If you are experiencing a leak or just need an oil change, book your appointment on line now – it’s fast and convenient too!
When your car’s Battery Indicator Warning Light appears, try to keep your car running. If you turn it off – it may not restart.
See more information about your car battery and how to know if you should have your car’s battery replaced.
This warning light is triggered because of an overheat condition with your engine. You should pull over immediately and turn your car off to prevent costly and avoidable repairs.
Let your car cool –DO NOT OPEN THE RADIATOR OR REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP until your car has had a chance to cool down. The coolant is extremely hot and will cause personal injury. Take immediate steps to have your cooling system checked by professionals and book your auto service appointment online right now – it’s fast and convenient too!
Adding air to the low tire should correct the problem and turn the TPMS warning indicator light off. If you have to continually add air to a tire – it’s probably got a puncture causing a slow leak – and should be serviced as soon as possible.
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When the Traction Control System Light activates, the triggering device is disabled and cannot control the amount of wheel slip in a driving situation. If the light remains illuminated for an extended period of time, you might need an OBD2 code pull for diagnosis.
The Door Ajar warning light will turn off when the problem is corrected. If the light does not go out, your car may require a simple computer reset. We can do that for you – just book your next service appointment online now – it’s fast and convenient too!.
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