Vehicle Warning Lights and What They Mean
Vehicle Warning Lights and What They Mean:
Introduction:
Anytime you have a vehicle warning light illuminate you should always take a minute to check it out before it possibly leads to a serious issue.
A lot of times we have dash warning lights illuminate for small and frustrating things, but there are a few times when a vehicle warning light illuminates and the cause can be detrimental to not only proper vehicle operation but to our safety as well.
Here are a few of the most major vehicle warning lights and their basic meanings:
Check Engine Light
Check Engine/Service Engine Soon
The check engine light can illuminate to notify us of minor things such as a loose gas cap, all the way to the most complicated and complex components of engine timing and operation.
It is always wise to make sure that you do not have an emissions system issue, as that can lead to harsher driveability conditions and also damage to other vital engine components.
With a basic scan tool and knowledge of engine operations, a lot of check engine concerns can be self-diagnosed at home. Start simple.
Check out the following articles for more CEL information: What is the Check Engine Light and How to Check the Engine Light
SRS/Airbag Light
Supplemental Restraint System/Airbag
“The airbag light becomes active when it is trying to notify us of a problem within the supplemental restraint system(airbag system).
It is highly advised to get this light checked out as soon as possible as it can be a safety issue. Most handheld scanners will read SRS trouble codes, and from there you can get an idea of what needs to be done.”
*Always exercise extreme caution and safety when working with Supplemental Restraint System. Disable system anytime repairs are made.
ABS/Traction Control Light
ABS/Traction Control/Stability Control
“The ABS/Traction Control lights can indicate we have an issue within the anti-lock braking system.
Problems can vary from issues such a bad wheel bearing or wheel speed sensor, more complex issues can occur within the hydraulic control module.”
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light
TPMS Light
“This light indicates low/high tire pressure. Usually, anytime tire pressure goes below or above specifications by 8-10psi the light will set.
Inspect tires for proper inflation, if any of the tires are low air them up to proper specification(thoroughly inspect for punctures/leaks).
Drive the vehicle for a few miles and the light should reset.
If the light does not reset then the tire pressure monitoring system may need to be reset/repaired. Consult owner’s manual for proper reset procedure.”
See: https://adeptautomotive.com/tire-pressure-maintenance/
Oil Pressure Light
Oil pressure warning
This light is important, so keep an eye out for it. When illuminated the most common cause is a low oil level, but it can range from failed timing components to failing engine internals, or if lucky it’s just a failing sensor.
Battery/Charging System Light
Low battery voltage Charging system fault
This light illuminates anytime there is a battery/charging system fault. It is best to get it looked at and figured out asap.
If the system is not charging there is only so far the battery will take you before losing power, and nobody likes to be stuck!
Engine Coolant Temperature Light
Engine Temperature Malfunction
This light indicates an issue within the engine’s cooling system. Usually, it comes alongside an overheating condition, so be sure to take care of it.
Start by checking things such as coolant level and cooling fan/thermostat operation.
Brake Fluid Level/Parking Brake Light
Low Brake Fluid/Parking Brake System Malfunction
The amber brake light is usually a sign that you have low brake fluid and possibly low brake pads. Inspect for proper fluid level and brake pad thickness.
If brake pads still have proper thickness be sure to inspect the hydraulic brake lines/master cylinder for leaks or corrosion.
Overview
This was an overview of the basic warning lights. There are so many different options out there, and as cars evolve, more options are added.
If you ever see a vehicle warning light you are unaware of, please feel free to send us a picture and we will let you know what it is.
Here is an affordable Scan Tool that will scan all of the modules needed to read the lights listed in this article.
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Your guide is very helpful for everyone. I learn while reading your guide. The amber brake light is usually a sign that you have low brake fluid and possibly low brake pads. Inspect for proper fluid level and brake pad thickness. Low oil pressure. This light is important, so keep an eye out for it. When illuminated the most common cause is a low oil level, but it can range from failed timing components to failing engine . Thanks for sharing such useful guide on Automotive Warning Lights.
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