Seven Common Car's Warning Lights That You Need To Know

Your car's dashboard is filled with various symbols and lights that can be confusing to decipher. Understanding what these symbols mean can help you identify potential issues with your vehicle before they become serious problems. In this guide, we'll explain some of the most common dashboard symbols and what they indicate.

1. Check Engine Light:

   

   
   
   Symbol: Engine outline with the word "CHECK" or "SERVICE"
   
   Meaning: Indicates a problem with the engine or emissions system.
   
   Action: Check if the gas cap is loose. If the light stays on, use a diagnostic scan tool to identify the issue. If it's flashing, reduce speed and avoid heavy acceleration. Have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

2. Battery Light:

   

   
   
   Symbol: Battery outline or a "+" and "-" symbol
   
   Meaning: Indicates a problem with the battery or charging system.
   
   Action: Check battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. If the light stays on, have the battery and charging system tested by a professional mechanic.

3. Oil Pressure Light:

   

   
   
   Symbol: Oil can or oil drop symbol
   
   Meaning: Indicates low oil pressure.
   
   Action: Stop the vehicle immediately and turn off the engine. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary. If the light stays on after adding oil, do not drive the vehicle. Have it towed to a repair shop for inspection.

4. Brake System Light:

   

   
   Symbol: Exclamation mark inside a circle, sometimes with the word "BRAKE"
   
   Meaning: Indicates a problem with the braking system.
   
   Action: Check the brake fluid level. If it's low, top it up with the recommended fluid. If the light stays on, have the brake system inspected by a professional mechanic.

5. ABS Light:

   

   
   Symbol: Letters "ABS" inside a circle
   
   Meaning: Indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system.
   
   Action: While your brakes should still work, the ABS may not function correctly. Have the ABS system inspected by a professional mechanic.

6. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light:

   

   
   Symbol: Tire with an exclamation mark
   
   Meaning: Indicates that one or more tires have low air pressure.
   
   Action: Check the tire pressure of all tires and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the light remains on, there may be a problem with the TPMS sensors that requires professional attention.

7. Coolant Temperature Warning Light:

   

   
   Symbol: Thermometer symbol or a symbol of waves
   
   Meaning: Indicates that the engine is overheating.
   
   Action: Stop the vehicle immediately and let the engine cool down. Check the coolant level and radiator for leaks. If the coolant level is low, top it up with coolant or water (in an emergency) and have the cooling system inspected by a professional mechanic.

Dashboard symbols are important indicators of potential issues with your vehicle. It's essential to understand these symbols and take appropriate action when they illuminate. If you're unsure about the meaning of a dashboard symbol, refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or consult a professional mechanic.