Modern cars are full of electronics and sensors, which monitor how the car behaves, how could be even easier the driving. But if something goes wrong and you don’t recognize these warning lights, it’s difficult to say exactly what kind of warning light flashes on the dashboard…
It is important to know what they mean, because in most cases project they may show a later, more serious error, so if you treat the problem in time you can save the later expensive repair costs and can move on the road safely.
Let’s see the most important warning lights:
ECU / engine warning light
If the engine control light is on, often accompanied by some unusual symptoms, for example if you press the accelerator, the car weakens, it only moves intermittently, the ignition is bad, or there is another error.
Sometimes a small electric sensor could be the blame, but it may indicate that there is a higher mechanical problem. If the motor control light is lit, contact a technician as soon as possible to look through the car to avoid further irreparable harm.
Airbag warning light
The invention of the airbag was a significant step to the safe driving. If the airbag doesn’t work, you can see the left small icon on the dashboard. If the air bag is wrong, in case of a collision, the driver and passengers will not be protected from accidental damage.
Power steering warning light
If the power steering warning light is on, it means that something is wrong with the steering. If the system fails, the steering becomes difficult, so you need more effort to take the car to the desired direction.
Coolant warning light
Without coolant, the car’s engine would be so hot that the seals will melt inside. If you see that the coolant light is illuminated on the dashboard, it could mean that the coolant level is low. Check the coolant reservoir under the hood and fill up if necessary.
The temperature light when changing (normally the light is yellow) to red, it means that the engine is overheating. This could be the sign of a larger problem or a symptom of a minor error, for example, there is a leak in the system so the engine starts to run out of coolant and therefore heats.
Oil level warning light
It may happen that on the way the oil level warning light will flash, which indicate that the oil temperature is too high or the oil level is too low or the oil pressure is too low. The oil is the lubricant of the engine, it works with the oil pump. If the oil temperature is too high, or even worse, the oil level is low, or the oil pressure is reduced, the efficiency of lubricating will drop or completely lost. The result? Expensive engine damage – so if you see this warning light, contact a mechanic as soon as possible.
Puncture warning light
Some types of cars are equipped with tire pressure monitoring system. These systems detect if the tire pressure is abnormal so you are likely become a puncture. In general, if this warning light flashes, it’s particularly important to stop the car as soon as possible and look at the tires, the tire pressure.
Battery warning light
When you start the car you should see this sign (this is normal), but if it doesn’t disappear in a few seconds after you start the engine, then there may be a problem with the car’s electronic system. This can happen for several reasons for: alternator failure, battery failure, bad connections or defective wiring in the engine compartment. If the car battery isn’t charge while driving, you may run out of power, and the car may stop.
ABS warning light
The ABS warning light illuminates shortly when the ignition is switched on if the ABS is operational. If light up while driving, it indicates a fault. Normal braking (without ABS) system will continue to work (only the anti-lock braking system is wrong) unless the brake warning light is illuminated too.
Windshield washer fluid warning light
It indicates that you must fill up the windshield washer fluid reservoir as soon as possible.
Windshield washer fluid warning light
It indicates that you must fill up the windshield washer fluid reservoir as soon as possible.
Doors warning light
If the icon blinks, one of the doors is open. Check them, the luggage compartment door too.
Traction control warning light
When the car engine starts and traction control light flashes on the dashboard, it is completely normal. However, if the symbol is lit continuously while driving, it means that the traction control is turned off. If the light flashes on the way, the stability control system is switched on, it informs the driver that there is a dangerous circumstance and the system works to prevent slipping and overturning.
Brake system warning light
The brake is arguably one of the most important parts of the vehicle. This symbol indicates potential problems with the brake system, such as low brake fluid level, leaks or worn brake pads. If this light turns on, you have to check over the vehicle by a car mechanic as soon as possible, especially if you detect any change in the car’s braking capacity.
Parking brake warning light
Similar to brake light, just you see P inside. This indicator will light each time when the parking brake is applied. If the indicator stays on after the parking brake was released or turns on while driving, stop the car immediately and call a professional. If you can’t stop immediately, drive with extreme caution until you reach into a safe place.
The warning lights are not games. They might indicate some minor things like a wrong sensor or a broken wire, but it may show a more serious trouble, and if you leave it without checking, the car will continue to damage. With regular maintenance and care you can prevent errors.
