If there’s something going on with your car, one of the signal lights on your dash will tell you. Things like tyre pressure, traction control and engine warnings are all indicated on your dash, so it’s important to know what they mean and what you need to do. Here’s a few:
Check engine light
The dreaded check engine light is both scary and ambiguous, because it doesn’t really tell you exactly what’s going on. It has to do with your car’s motor and emissions system, and could be as minor as a loose wire or gas cap, or something more serious to do with the car’s engine itself.
If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving and everything seems fine, don’t panic but don’t ignore it either. Drive on to a mechanic to get the problem diagnosed and get a precise idea of what’s actually going on under the hood.
Battery light
The battery light illuminates when the car's charging system detects a problem. This could be a failing alternator, a loose or corroded battery connection, or a dying battery. If the battery light turns on while driving, it's essential to pull over safely and turn off non-essential electrical components. Head to a mechanic ASAP to prevent a potential breakdown and keep your battery healthy.
Red or blue coolant temperature warnings
When your engine is running too hot, this red light will come on. This could be caused by your engine overheating, a coolant leak, or even a faulty sensor. A blue coolant warning light however, means the opposite – your engine is getting too cold and needs a moment to warm up before setting off.
If the coolant temperature warning light comes on while you’re driving, stop in a safe area and let the engine cool down. If you can, check for leaks in the coolant system. Or stay on the safe side and get it checked out by a professional if the light keeps coming on.
Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
The TPMS light alerts you to low tyre pressure, which can compromise vehicle handling and fuel efficiency. When this light comes on, head to a service station to check your tyre pressures and inflate them to the recommended psi. If the light won’t go away, it could indicate a puncture or a malfunction in the TPMS sensor.
Washer fluid warning
A lit washer fluid light is a reminder to refill your washer fluid reservoir. While seemingly minor, a clear windshield is crucial for safe driving, especially in adverse weather conditions. Regularly topping up the washer fluid helps maintain visibility, ensuring you can see the road clearly. Keep a handy spare bottle of washer fluid in your trunk for convenience.
Low fuel light
This one’s an easy one. You’re simply running low on fuel! It’s probably time for a pit stop at the petrol station. Did you know the arrow alongside the low fuel icon tells you which side of your car your fuel cap is located on?
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