Understanding Your Car’s Dashboard Warning Lights

When you’re driving along and a warning light illuminates on your car’s dashboard, it can be an unsettling experience. Those bright symbols and words are your vehicle’s way of communicating that something needs attention. While some warning lights indicate a critical issue that requires immediate action, others may simply be reminding you about routine maintenance.

It’s important to understand what each dashboard warning light means so you can respond appropriately. Ignoring illuminated warnings can potentially lead to larger, costlier problems or even compromise your safety on the road. Let’s take a look at some of the most common dashboard warning lights and what they signify.

Engine/Check Engine Light

The engine or check engine light is one of the most common warning indicators. When illuminated, it means the vehicle’s engine computer has detected an issue with the emissions control system. While this malfunction doesn’t necessarily mean the vehicle will stop running, it does indicate a problem that should be addressed to prevent potential damage and excessive emissions.

The engine or check engine light on a car’s dashboard generally looks like one of the following symbols:

1. An outline of an engine: This is the most common symbol and looks like a small icon of an engine.
2. The words “Check Engine”: Some cars use text instead of or alongside the engine icon.

The light is usually amber or yellow, though it can also be red in some vehicles to indicate a more urgent issue.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

This dashboard symbol looks like a tyre with an exclamation mark in the centre. The TPMS light illuminates when one or more of your tyres is significantly under-inflated. Low tyre pressure can cause uneven tread wear, decrease fuel efficiency, and increase the risk of a blowout. Don’t ignore this warning – stop and check your tyre pressures as soon as possible.

Battery/Charging Warning Light

Represented by a battery symbol or the word “BATT” on your dashboard, this light indicates an issue with the battery or charging system. It could mean the battery itself needs to be replaced or that there is a problem with the alternator, which charges the battery. Continuing to drive with this light on could leave you stranded with a dead battery.

Engine Temperature Warning Light

An overheating engine is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately. The engine temperature warning light, which appears as a thermometer symbol or the word “TEMP,” illuminates when the engine coolant gets too hot. Pulling over and allowing the engine to cool down is advisable. Causes could include a coolant leak, stuck thermostat, or failed water pump.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

The oil pressure warning light looks like an old-fashioned oil can or the word “OIL.” If this symbol illuminates while driving, it indicates dangerously low oil pressure which can quickly damage the engine. It’s critical to shut off the engine immediately and have the vehicle towed for service. Driving with low oil pressure can destroy bearings and connecting rods.

Brake System Warning Light

Depicted as “BRAKE” or with the brake symbol, this warning light could mean a few different things. It might indicate low brake fluid, excessive wear on the brake pads, or even an anti-lock brake system (ABS) fault. Brakes are a critical safety system, so you’ll want to have this light diagnosed by a professional mechanic promptly.

Traction Control/Stability Control Light

The traction control or stability control light alerts drivers that one of those safety systems is not functioning properly. These systems help prevent skidding or loss of control, so you’ll want to exercise extra caution driving if this warning illuminates, especially in slippery conditions.

Airbag Warning Light

This dashboard icon represents the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) that controls deployment of the airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. An illuminated airbag light could mean a malfunction that would prevent airbags from inflating properly during a collision. It’s best to have this checked immediately, as airbags are crucial safety devices.

Washer Fluid Reminder

Some vehicles have a symbol that looks like a windscreen with spraying washer fluid reminding you to top up the washer reservoir. Having adequate washer fluid levels is important to maintain proper visibility through the windscreen.

While the warning lights highlighted above represent some of the most common issues, there are other symbols and indicators your vehicle may use. If an unfamiliar warning light comes on, it’s always wise to consult your owner’s manual to understand its meaning. Additionally, many modern vehicles display text warnings or descriptions along with the symbol to convey what system or component needs attention.

When a dashboard warning light illuminates, make note of the circumstances – for example, whether it stays on steadily or only comes on briefly during acceleration. This information can help mechanics diagnose the issue. Resist the urge to ignore a warning light, even if it seems intermittent or your car seems to be functioning normally. Warning lights are designed to alert you to existing or potential problems that could damage components or create unsafe driving conditions.

Don’t let a confusing array of dashboard symbols leave you feeling powerless behind the wheel. Understanding what each warning light indicates empowers you to seek appropriate repairs, practise preventive maintenance, and address issues promptly before they escalate into costly breakdowns. Your dashboard is the communication bridge between you and your vehicle – listening to what it’s trying to tell you can help keep you safer on the roads and protect your automotive investment.