Just bought a new car or are you a first-time driver? If we're honest with ourselves, do we know what all those symbols mean on our dashboards? Your car dashboard is your car's pulse, and you must know what your vehicle is trying to communicate to you. Knowing what your car is trying to communicate will assist you in ensuring minor problems don't turn into major costly repairs.
Most of these warning lights could be prevented with ensuring a preventive maintenance regime is maintained.
Turn on your car and your warning lights will illuminate briefly, should your warning lights remain illuminated, check your car manual as soon as possible.
A typical dashboard will have symbols that will flash red, yellow and blue/green. Critical to know are your symbols that will flash red, warning symbols.
Check Engine light
If the light displays in yellow and there are no other warning signs (odd sounds, lack of power, etc.), then you have time to get to your mechanic. If it turns to red, then you need to stop immediately, as you run the risk of damage your engine irreversibly. Look into your car's manual on the specific procedure to follow.
Oil pressure warning light
The oil warning light is one of the most serious warning lights of all. Little or no oil can cause damage to the engine, DO NOT ignore this light. Stop the engine immediately and consult the car's user manual. You may simply have to top up the oil to make the light go out, but it is advisable to investigate if there are any other issues for the low oil. Having a regular oil change schedule is advised.
Brake system warning light
The brake system warning light requires immediate action. Hopefully, it could be simply that you have left the handbrake on while pulling away, ensure to release the handbrake fully. However, is the warning light still stay on, pull over to the side of the road. Having the brake sensor light lit may be caused by low brake fluid and need topping up. It's advisable to visit your nearest garage to make sure the issue isn't serious. How to know if my brakes need changing?
Battery charge warning light
This warning light is typically a sign that the battery charging system isn't working. Either the battery has an issue or the charging system. If the issue is simply that your battery needs replacing your nearest garage can do that with ease. But it could also be due to a problem with the car's wiring or, more seriously, a fault with its alternator or drive belt. How to jump-start your car?
Temperature warning light
If you see the thermometer light up on your dashboard, your car is probably overheating. Stop your immediately till it cools down, then carefully with a cloth check the coolant level.
If your car engine is too hot or the coolant tank is "steaming," then you should call a tow service. Driving when this light is lit, might cause damage to your car engine, resulting in a very costly service.
Knowing about your critical dashboard lights could save you a whole lot of frustration and unneeded costs. Keeping to a regular maintenance schedule will assist you in ensuring you keep your car running well with minimal running costs.
Visit any AutoXpress Branch to help you with a diagnosis if need be.
