Understanding Your Vehicle Dash Lights

When driving, it is crucial to understand the different lights on your dashboard. Each light has a vital role to play. They indicate different potential issues ranging from simple reminders to more serious problems. Wes Finch knows how important it is to be able to interpret these symbols for safe driving.

In this article, we will go over the most common car dashboard warning lights and their meanings. We will discuss important tips and steps you should take when the lights come on.

Common Car Dashboard Warning Lights

Your vehicle has a variety of different lights that appear on the dashboard. They serve as critical indicators of issues that could demand your attention. The first step to being prepared is to know what each common dashboard warning light is:

• Fog Light: While not a warning, it is important to know a few regular lights that will turn on. First is the fog light, which indicates that your fog lights are on. It looks similar to the headlights symbol but with a squiggly line in front.
• Parking Braking Light: This light indicates that the parking brake is engaged or there is a problem. If the light stays on after you turn the brake off, it could mean there is a problem.
• Check Engine Light: Also known as the malfunction indicator light (MIL), the check engine light is one of the most frequently seen warning lights. It generally indicates a problem with the engine or the emissions system.
• Battery Warning Light: This light usually appears as a symbol resembling a battery or an exclamation mark inside a circle. It indicates a problem with your vehicle's charging system, such as a malfunctioning alternator or battery.
• Coolant Temperature Warning Light: Represented by a thermometer submerged in liquid, this light indicates that your engine is overheating or experiencing a coolant-related issue.
• Transmission Temperature Warning: The transmission temperature warning light indicates that your transmission fluid is overheating. This could be due to heavy towing, driving in extreme weather conditions, or a malfunctioning transmission cooler.
• Oil Pressure Warning: This symbol indicates a drop in oil pressure, which could be caused by low oil levels, a faulty oil pump, or a leak.
• Traction or Stability Control Light: This symbol typically appears when there is a problem with your vehicle's traction control or stability control system. It could indicate a loss of traction on slippery surfaces or a malfunction in the system.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System: This light turns on when one or more of the tires is underinflated.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light: This light appears as an exclamation mark in a circle. If it appears, it means there is something wrong with your brakes. It could be something like a problem with the components like brake pads or the brake fluid level being low.

Interpreting Car Dashboard Warning Lights

Paying attention to your vehicle dash lights is essential when driving. These lights are designed to alert you to potential problems, ensuring your safety and preventing further damage. Knowing what each light could mean is essential.

The most important lights to watch for are the check engine light, coolant temperature warning light, and the oil pressure light. Each of these could be alerting to severe issues that could affect not just you’re driving but your safety. 

If the check engine light comes on, it generally indicates a problem with the engine or emissions system. It can turn on either as a constant light or blinking, which indicates a serious problem and should be checked right away. If possible, pull over safely to give your car a break before driving to the nearest auto shop or service center.

Operating your vehicle with an overheated engine can cause severe damage. It's crucial to pull over safely if the coolant temperature warning light comes on. Operating your vehicle with an overheated engine can cause severe damage, so it's crucial to allow the engine to cool down and seek professional help if needed.

In the same vein is the oil pressure light. When this warning light illuminates, it is essential to pull over safely and check your oil levels. If the oil level is fine, it is advisable to seek professional assistance to avoid engine damage.

Whenever a new dashboard light comes on, it is important to stay calm but handle it quickly. It is recommended that you pull over safely and check your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It can help you interpret any lights that come on.

Then assess the severity of the situation. If the light is red or flashing, it indicates a severe problem, and you should pull over safely and seek professional help. If the light is not flashing, it suggests a less urgent issue. You can continue driving but you should schedule an appointment with your mechanic as soon as possible.

If you're unsure or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced technicians at Wes Finch. We are here to help diagnose and address any issues with your vehicle.

Dashboard Light Maintenance

To ensure your vehicle is always alerting you to issues, it is important to make sure that you are keeping up with any required dashboard maintenance. Here are some essential aspects of dashboard light maintenance to help you stay informed and take necessary action when needed:

1. Checking and Maintaining Fluid Levels: One of the most common reasons for vehicle dash lights to illuminate is low fluid levels. Regularly checking and maintaining fluid levels, such as engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, can prevent unnecessary activations of car dashboard warning lights. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for instructions on how to check and refill these fluids.
2. Replacing Faulty Bulbs: Car dashboard lights can also indicate faulty bulbs. If you notice a dashboard light is not functioning or flickering, it may be due to a burnt-out bulb. Replacing faulty bulbs is relatively simple and can often be done without professional assistance. However, if you are unsure about the process, it is recommended to consult a certified technician.
3. Understanding Advanced Feature Symbols: Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced features and technologies, which are often represented by specific symbols on the dashboard. Understanding these car dashboard symbols is essential to interpret any warning or informational lights correctly. Review your vehicle's owner manual or consult a professional to familiarize yourself with these symbols and their meanings.

By following these dashboard light maintenance tips, you can ensure your vehicle operates smoothly and avoid any potential issues that may arise. If you encounter persistent or unfamiliar car dash symbols, it is always recommended to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis.

Wes Finch is here to help. Give us a call at 641-325-4088 or schedule an appointment online today and let our professional technicians take care of your vehicle. We can not only diagnose the cause of the lights but fix or recommend next steps.