Top 5 Dashboard Warning Lights | Infographic

image of infographic car dashboard warning lights

1. Check Engine Light

Everyone dreads their check engine light coming on. It never means anything good and sometimes it means a hefty car repair. There isn’t much you can do on your own to fix the problem associated with this light, though any auto repair shop should be able to run a quick diagnostic to figure out what triggered your check engine light.

You Likely Have a Problem with Emissions

When your check engine light comes on, it typically has to do with a problem affecting your emissions. That means if this light is lit on your dashboard, you’re unlikely to pass any state-required emissions tests and you’ll need to fix the underlying problem. It also could easily be a more serious issue that should be addressed right away regardless.

2. Engine Oil Pressure Light

Your engine oil light will come on when there’s a problem with your engine oil. This is typically when your oil level is too low and you risk causing damage to your engine. It’s not a good idea to ignore this light, though you can check your oil level and top it off to solve the problem in the short term.

You Likely Have an Oil Leak

Any at-home fix here will likely be just that – a short-term fix to put off a necessary repair. If your engine oil level is low and triggering your engine oil pressure light, that means you probably have an oil leak somewhere that will have to be fixed by a mechanic.

3. Tire Pressure Light

This is an indication that you need to add air to your tires. Many modern cars use sensors to tell you when your tire pressure is outside of a safe range. Having tire pressure that’s too low will cause extra wear on your tires, while having tire pressure that’s too high can cause blowouts on longer drives in hot weather.

It Could Be Time for New Tires

If this light frequently comes back on after you fill up your tires, you probably have a leak in the affected tire. This could be due to damage or possibly just being over-worn. Take a look at your tire treads and make sure they’re still at an adequate thickness.

4. Engine Temperature Light

This will come on when your engine is overheating. It’s more likely to come on during long road trips but any time it comes on, you should take it seriously. It could just be an issue with the temperature sensor but more likely it’s a real indication that you could cause serious damage to your engine by letting it continue to overheat.

Get Your Cooling System Checked

The core problem could be a number of things, but the likely issue is with your cooling system. If you’re low on coolant, your cooling system will not be able to adequately moderate engine and transmission temperature. It could be anything from a leak to worn out parts, but you’ll have to take your car to an auto repair mechanic to get it diagnosed.

5. Battery Alert Light

When you see the battery alert light turn on, there’s a problem impacting how well your battery can charge. It’s possible your battery could be the problem, though in that case, you’re more likely to simply not be able to start your car. Either way, you can take a look at your battery and clean the connections but you’re likely to need an appointment with a mechanic.

You Likely Have an Electrical Problem Outside of Your Battery

The more likely problem is an issue with your car’s electrical system, making it more difficult to charge your battery. This could be a parasitic leak, a damaged battery cable, problem with your alternator belt, or any other electrical issues. A mechanic experienced in electrical car problems will have to examine your car and diagnose the problem causing your battery light to come on.

Don’t panic About warning lights

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When a Warning Light Comes on, Call AAMCO Colorado

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