We’re all about shining lights when it comes to holiday décor, but when it comes to your vehicle, dashboard lights are certainly not something to celebrate. Let’s take a look at the most common dashboard light indicators and what they mean for your vehicle!
Colors
The color of the indicator is the first thing you should pay attention to when assessing your vehicle for potential service. If a green light is illuminated, it simply means a specific function of your vehicle has been activated (cruise control, parking brake, lights, high beams, and so on). Yellow, orange, and red lights are usually signs that something isn’t quite right with your vehicle. Red lights typically denote serious threats or component failures, while orange and yellow lights can signal lower-grade warnings or the activation of safety features like traction control.
The Most Common Dashboard Light Indicators
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is one of the most common dashboard lights, and probably the least specific. The light simply denotes that something is wrong with your engine, whether it be a loose gas cap, misfire, or loss of compression. Don’t put off having the light diagnosed! Depending on the specifics of the issue, you could be risking costly damage rather than the price of a simple repair. When your check engine light does appear, make sure to check your car’s fluids to ensure they’re all full before attempting to drive.
Oil Pressure Light
The old fashion oil can shaped indicator simply means something is wrong with the oil pressure in your vehicle. Whether your vehicle is simply low on oil, or your oil pump needs service, service for this light should never be put off. Otherwise, you could be risking engine damage without proper lubrication.
Thermometer Light
A red thermometer light is a signal that your engine temperature has reached the point where continuous driving could cause harm to your vehicle. There are many issues that can lead to engine overheating, but we’ve found that it takes place most often due to a shortage of antifreeze or engine coolant.
ABS Light
ABS is the system that kicks in to help us modulate our braking and prevent tire lockups to quickly slow down when we must suddenly come to a stop. If a yellow ABS light is present on your dash, this is a sign that there is an issue with the braking system. With slippery winter conditions on the horizon, we strongly advise against roughing it and risking brake failure when this light is lit.
Remove Your Dashboard Indicators with Service from Churchill Auto Care
If your vehicle needs maintenance, give us a call! We offer excellent service at a fair price for all of your automotive maintenance and repair needs. To schedule an appointment, please visit our site, give us a call at (301) 620-7620 or text us at (301)-804-6035!