Are you sure you know what each of the warning lights on your car means? This can be perilous; not all drivers know what all of the warning lights mean. Bearing this in mind, this guide will provide everything you need to know so that you know what the monsters are doing if you have a dash warning light illuminated. Read on for more details.
The Basics of Dashboard Lights
First, you need to understand the Colour-coding system that is used for warning lights:
Red: Indicates a critical issue or safety hazard that needs to be addressed immediately.
Amber/yellow: A warning or advisory, which means that you should schedule maintenance ASAP.
Green/blue: Informational lights that indicate different functions, such as when headlights are on.
Keep in mind that every car is different, so you should always check your manual to learn the meaning of each individual light. If browsing for used cars, always make sure that you know what each light means before driving the vehicle.
Critical Red Lights: When to Stop Immediately
Red lights indicate that the issue needs to be addressed instantly and could pose a safety issue. Common red warning lights can include:
Engine temperature: This indicates the engine is overheating, and the car should be stopped to cool the engine down.
Oil pressure: A drop in oil pressure can damage the engine, so you should stop the car and check the oil level.
Brake system: Brake system warnings could indicate low brake fluid or a malfunction in the braking system. You should always have the brakes inspected as a matter of urgency.
Amber Lights: Schedule a Checkup
Amber lights are less urgent, but you should always take action as soon as possible. These lights include:
Check engine light: Can indicate a range of issues, including emissions problems and large engine issues. You should always book an inspection as soon as possible.
ABS: This indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system and should be checked promptly, especially in winter driving conditions.
Tyre pressure monitoring system: Indicates incorrect tyre pressure. You could visit tyre fitters in Cambridge if replacement tyres are required.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Warning Lights
To prevent warning lights, you need to keep your car in tip-top condition. There are various maintenance tasks you can do yourself, which include checking engine oil levels, topping up fluids, and inflating the tyres to the correct pressure. You should also schedule regular servicing so that more advanced maintenance tasks can be completed.
Every motorist should have an understanding of their vehicle’s warning lights and know what action needs to be taken. Sometimes, these warning lights will indicate a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Although some are not as urgent, warning lights should never be ignored, and the issue should always be addressed as soon as possible to prevent potentially dangerous issues from arising.