Dashboard warning lights on your car – it’s a phrase that strikes fear into the hearts of many drivers. What does it mean when the check engine light comes on? Is my car about to break down? Warning lights that come on in your car could be things not to worry about, such as the parking brake or anti-lock braking system light. But they could also be more serious things like the brake warning light or the engine temperature warning light, just as two examples.
This guide will look at all of the standard dashboard lights and safety lights and explain what each one means. Knowing what these warning lights mean can help you stay safe on the road and may even save you from costly repairs for your car in the future!
The most common warning lights in your car
So, what are the most common warning lights in your car? Here’s a list of some of the most common warning lights that most people would have come across at least once in their driving history:
- Check engine warning light
- Oil pressure warning light
- Battery warning light
- Temperature warning light
- Brake warning light
Each of these dashboard lights has a specific meaning, and it’s important to know what they all mean to stay safe on the road. Let’s take a closer look at each of these warning lights and explain their purpose.
Check engine light
The check engine light is probably the best-known dashboard warning light. It comes on when there is a problem with the car’s engine and should be taken very seriously. Some common causes of the check engine light include ignition, emissions, fuel, or brakes problems, but this will vary depending on your vehicle. If the light comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to get it checked out – don’t leave it too late!
Oil pressure warning light
The oil pressure warning light is another important one to know about. It comes on when the engine’s oil pressure falls below a certain level and can indicate a problem with the engine. If this light comes on, you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive could cause severe damage to the engine of your car. This can also be known as the oil warning light, depending on the make and model of your car.
Battery warning light
The battery warning light indicates something wrong with the car’s battery. This could signify that the battery needs to be replaced or recharged.
Temperature warning light
The temperature warning light comes on when the car’s coolant temperature gets too high and can indicate a problem with the cooling system. If this light comes on, you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as possible to avoid damaging it. This light could also be referred to as the coolant temperature warning light.
Brake warning light
The brake system warning light indicates a problem with the car’s brakes. This could be anything from low brake fluid to an issue with brake pads or discs. If the brake system light comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to get it checked out. The brake system is one of the most important in your car.
Brake pad warning light
The brake pad warning light is different from the brake system warning light, although it’s commonly mistaken for it when it comes to car dashboard warning lights. This light comes on when the car’s brake pads are getting low and need to be replaced.
Power steering warning light
The power steering warning light comes on when there is a problem with the car’s power steering system. If this light comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. Power steering problems can be dangerous and make it difficult to steer the car, so don’t wait too long if this light comes on!
Parking brake warning light
The parking brake warning light comes on when the car’s parking brake is engaged. This may seem silly to have a warning light, but it’s vital! The parking brake is an important safety feature of your car, and if it’s not working correctly, it could be dangerous. If this light comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic to get it checked out.
ABS warning light
The ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light comes on when there is a problem with the car’s ABS system. This system prevents your wheels from locking up when you brake suddenly and can be extremely useful in emergencies.
Traction control system light
The traction control light comes on when the car’s traction control system is engaged. The traction control system helps to improve grip while driving by controlling the power sent to each of the car’s wheels. It can be beneficial in slippery conditions, but it can worsen if it’s not working correctly.
Transmission temperature warning light
The transmission temperature warning light comes on when the car’s transmission gets too hot. This could be a sign of a problem with the transmission, and if it gets too hot, it could damage or even destroy the transmission. So if this light comes on, you should take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
These are just some of the most common dashboard warning lights you might see while driving. Knowing what they mean can help you stay safe on the road and may even save you from costly repairs in the future! So don’t ignore them if they come on – get your car checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
For more information on dashboard warning lights, visit the team at Sutherland Automotive. We have the experience and the know-how when it comes to all of the most common warning lights, and we can help you and your vehicle! Make an online booking today.
