The Ultimate Guide to Dashboard Warning Lights
Dashboard warning lights can be a motorist's best friend or worst nightmare. These lights are designed to keep you informed about your vehicle's health, ensuring you address potential issues promptly. However, their meanings can often seem confusing, especially if you're unfamiliar with them. In this guide, we'll help you to understand these lights, making sure you know what they mean and what to do when they appear.
What Are Dashboard Warning Lights?
Dashboard warning lights are alerts on your car's dashboard. They light up to show problems ranging from routine maintenance to urgent mechanical or safety issues. The colours of the lights-red, amber, and green-show how serious the problem is:
Red: Immediate attention required. Ignoring this could result in damage or unsafe driving conditions.
Amber: Caution. Investigate the issue soon, but it’s typically safe to continue driving.
Green or Blue: Informational lights, often indicating active systems like cruise control or headlights.
Common Dashboard Warning Lights and What They Mean:
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
Symbol: A dripping oil can.
Meaning: Low oil pressure, which could indicate an oil leak, a faulty oil pump, or insufficient oil levels.
Action: Stop the car as soon as it’s safe and check your oil levels. Top up if necessary, but if the light remains on, seek professional assistance.
2. Battery Warning Light
Symbol: A battery with positive (+) and negative (-) signs.
Meaning: Issues with the battery or charging system, such as a faulty alternator or loose connection.
Action: Avoid turning off the engine and drive to the nearest service centre. A failing charging system could leave you stranded.
3. Brake System Warning Light
Symbol: An exclamation mark inside a circle, sometimes accompanied by the word “BRAKE.”
Meaning: Problems with the braking system, such as low brake fluid or a malfunction.
Action: Check brake fluid levels. If the issue persists or the brakes feel unresponsive, do not drive the vehicle and seek immediate help.
4. Check Engine Light
Symbol: A stylised engine or the words “CHECK ENGINE.”
Meaning: This light can indicate various issues, from a loose petrol cap to serious engine problems.
Action: If the light is steady, you can continue driving but should have the car inspected soon. If it’s flashing, stop driving immediately to prevent damage.
5. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
Symbol: A horseshoe shape with an exclamation mark inside.
Meaning: One or more tyres have low pressure.
Action: Check and adjust tyre pressure to the recommended levels. Driving on underinflated tyres can be unsafe and inefficient.
Lesser-Known Warning Lights
1. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Light
Symbol: A car with wavy skid marks below.
Meaning: Indicates the ESC system is active or malfunctioning.
Action: If the light stays on after startup, the system may need attention from a technician.
2. AdBlue Warning Light (Diesel Vehicles)
Symbol: A small container with droplets.
Meaning: The AdBlue tank needs refilling.
Action: Refill the AdBlue tank promptly to avoid your vehicle failing to start.
How to Handle Warning Lights
Don’t Panic: Many issues are minor and easily resolved.
Refer to Your Manual: Your vehicle’s manual contains specific information about warning lights.
Use Diagnostic Tools: An OBD-II scanner can provide detailed error codes.
Seek Professional Help: If unsure, it’s always better to consult a trusted mechanic.
Need Assistance?
Reach out to us at Browning Suzuki! Understanding your vehicle’s dashboard warning lights is key to saving time, money, and stress. If you’re unsure about any warning, our friendly team is here to assist you. Whether it’s routine maintenance or emergency repairs, we’re ready to help. Schedule an appointment today and hit the road with confidence!