Dashboard warning lights are a great way to alert you of something amiss about your car. But if you don’t know what the light means, it may as well just be a pretty decoration on your dashboard.
Most dashboard warning lights fall into the group detailed below. Let’s take a look.
Common Dashboard Warning Lights
If your dashboard lights up, it’s probably one of the following.
Check engine light
What it looks like: A profile view of an engine, usually yellow or orange in color.
What it means: The check engine light can be the most serious of all dashboard warning lights. There are a number of reasons why it can be triggered, which include anything from a gas cap that is not fully tightened to a blown catalytic converter.
Oil pressure warning
What it looks like: An oil lamp with a drip of oil coming out one end.
What it means: Your oil pressure or oil level is low. If it’s just the oil level, simply top it off and continue to monitor for any possible leaks. If the level is fine, a bad oil filter may be triggering a low-pressure reading.
Tire pressure warning
What it looks like: An exclamation mark inside a U-shaped tire.
What it means: One or more of your tires is getting low on air. Pull over and examine all four tires. If any of them look deflated, get to a service station or gas station with an air hose.
Engine temperature warning
What it looks like: A thermometer, usually red, with wavy lines underneath.
What it means: Your car’s engine is getting too hot and runs the risk of overheating. Look at your temperature gauge to see if it’s above halfway. If so, pull over immediately. Overheating your car can cause serious damage.
Anti-lock brake warning
What it looks like: Typically the letters “ABS” appear inside of a circle.
What it means: Your car has detected an issue with your anti-lock braking system. Have your brakes inspected, and brake gently and carefully until then.
Battery warning
What it looks like: A battery with a plus sign and a minus sign on opposite ends.
What it means: Your battery is getting low on juice. You may experience difficulty starting the car, especially during cold weather.
Fuel warning
What it looks like: A gas pump.
What it means: You are getting low on fuel. Refuel as soon as possible.
Dashboard Light? Visit Zimbrick
If you have a dashboard warning light on, bring your vehicle to Zimbrick, your destination for auto service in Madison, Wisconsin. Just contact us, and our team can decode your warning light and schedule your service right away to get you back on the road, warning-light free.
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