You’re driving along, music playing, and everything feels good, until you see a mysterious light flashing on your dashboard. Now, you have two options: Ignore it, hoping it will go away, or pull over to see what’s really going on. We suggest taking the latter route.
Dashboard lights are how your car communicates with you when there is a potential issue. To everyone’s surprise, mechanics aren’t the only ones who can decode these cryptic signals.
As a car owner, knowing what different dashboard lights mean can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s take a closer look.
Types of Dashboard Lights
Dashboard lights are color-coded and can be categorized into three sections:
Blue/ Green – These are informational lights. They don’t indicate a problem; they let you know that a feature or system is activated and working. For instance, directional indicators or turn signals simply let the driver know the vehicle is turning.
Orange/ Yellow – These are cautionary lights, indicating that your vehicle needs repairs soon. For instance, the Tire Pressure Warning Light indicates that one or more tires are underinflated and should be looked at as soon as possible.
Red Lights – These are warning lights. Red lights indicate that the driver must take immediate action to ensure safety.
Common Dashboard Lights
Now, let’s take a closer look at four common dashboard lights, what they mean, and what you should do:
Oil Pressure Warning Light
In most cars, the Oil Pressure Warning Light is symbolized by a red can with a drop coming out. It indicates dangerously low oil pressure in the engine or a malfunctioning oil pump. Without enough oil pressure, your engine won’t get the lubrication it needs, which can cause damage.
Here’s what you should do:
- Pull over immediately.
- Turn off the vehicle and check the oil.
- If the oil level is low, add the recommended oil type, and wait if the light goes off.
Engine Temperature Warning Light
This means that your engine is heating up. This can be caused by a multitude of reasons, including low coolant levels, a stuck thermostat, or a problem with the radiator.
Pull over as soon as it’s safe. Don’t pop the hood immediately, and let your car sit for at least 15 minutes to cool down. Check the coolant level and add more if it’s low. No luck? Call a mechanic. They might recommend you find OEM or spare parts for your car to enhance efficiency.
Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, helping you maintain control. When this light is on, your regular brakes still work, but the ABS function may be disabled. Avail professional auto maintenance services as soon as possible.
Airbag Indicator Light
The Airbag Indicator Light means that something is wrong with one of your airbags. Remember that airbags keep you safe during accidents and prevent head injuries, so get your vehicle looked at immediately.
