According to an HPI research, almost 96% of drivers have no idea what a dashboard brake warning light looks like, and only roughly one in five can recognize the oil pressure warning light. Furthermore, many drivers in the survey did not consider airbag, battery, and coolant warning lights to be critical.
Given these findings, it’s no surprise that many drivers fail to provide their used vehicles with the necessary maintenance and upkeep. If you notice a vehicle warning light and aren’t handy under the hood, it’s important to get your automobile to a reputable repair as soon as possible.
- Light for Airbag Alert
Warning Light for Airbags The dashboard airbag warning light could be for an issue that, in the case of an accident, could literally mean the difference between life and death. The airbag light usually shows the word “airbag” or a picture of a ball in front of a seated occupant wearing a seat belt. If this warning light illuminates in your car, seek the assistance of a certified mechanic.
- Car Temperature Warning Lights
When you observe coolant warning lights on your automobile dashboard, it implies your engine is overheating. Pull aside, turn off your vehicle, and let the engine cool down if you see a dashboard warning light that looks like a thermometer dipped in water. Don’t put off driving a little longer. While the issue could be as simple as low coolant, it could also be more complex, such as a damaged fan.
- Warning Light for Power Steering
If the power steering warning light comes on, steering may be difficult. Low power steering fluid or a defective hose could be the problem. Without power steering, it’s hard to manage your direction, especially at low speeds. Pull over if you see a steering wheel-shaped dashboard warning light.
- Vehicle Oil Pressure Warning Light
When oil levels are low or the pump isn’t performing properly, the oil pressure automobile warning light illuminates. The oil pressure light, like the battery warning light, is easy to spot—an it’s oil can. An oil pressure problem might seriously damage your vehicle’s engine and other components. Check your oil and top it off if necessary. If the light continues to illuminate, your problem will require a professional analysis.
- Battery/System for Charging Car Light Alert
Battery warning lights indicate a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system or battery. A battery warning notice should be easy to spot because it resembles a small battery. The warning light could indicate that you have worn battery cables, a faulty alternator, or a damaged drive belt, all of which can cause your car to stall. If the battery warning light illuminates while you’re driving, don’t pull over and turn off the engine since it could not restart. Instead, take your vehicle to the nearest service center right away because you only have about 15 minutes to drive with your battery light on before it stops.
- Warning Light for Brakes
A brake warning light on the dashboard might signal a number of problems. A brake warning light is typically shaped like an exclamation point inside a circle and is commonly accompanied by the word “brake.” A brake warning light indicates a major problem that must be treated immediately, ranging from low brake fluid to broken components. If both your brake and ABS warning lights on, pull over, park your vehicle, and seek professional assistance.
- Warning Light for the Engine
One of the most common lights on your dashboard is the “Check Engine” light. These lights are usually yellow and show a warning in text or a picture of an engine. They are sometimes called SEC (service engine soon) warning lights. Most of the time, an engine warning light means something simple, like a loose gas cap, or something more serious, like a problem with the catalytic converter. Since there are so many things that can go wrong and cause the check engine light to come on, it’s best to be safe and get your car checked out as soon as possible.