Autocare: Knowing The Symbols in Your Dashboard And Its Risk
If you drive, you’ve been there. During an otherwise uneventful trip, a beep sounds and a symbol on the instrument panel lights up, leading to a momentary panic. While some symbols are more apparent, knowing what each symbol means will make it easier to know when to call for service. This guide will explain the most common dashboard symbols and their meanings.
Engine Warning Light
A check engine light Houston may come on for several reasons, and some are more serious than others. An illuminated warning light may indicate an oil pressure issue, overheating, or something as simple as a loose gas cap. If your check engine light comes on, especially if it’s flashing, it’s best to pull over and call for service.
Oil Pressure
On most vehicles, the oil pressure light looks like an old-fashioned oil can. When the light comes on, it typically means there’s not enough oil in the engine or the oil pump isn’t working. This condition should be addressed immediately, as it can quickly lead to engine damage and premature failure.
Tire Pressure Monitoring
Sometimes referred to as the TPMS or tire pressure monitoring symbol, this light shows too much or too little pressure in one of the vehicle’s tires. Driving on over- or under-inflated tires is dangerous and can damage your car. The optimal tire pressure is 30-35 pounds per square inch. If your TPMS light goes off when you’re in the area, stop by for free air and a tire pressure check.
Temperature Warning
If this symbol lights up, your engine is too hot. Most engines overheat due to a cooling system problem, but it occurs for other reasons. Regardless of the cause, prompt action will prevent further engine damage.
ABS Light
If the ABS warning light comes on while driving, there’s a problem with the vehicle’s braking system. Antilock brakes serve a vital purpose: they keep a car in contact with the road’s surface during sudden stops. On most vehicles, the light comes on for a few seconds at startup, and there’s only an issue if the light stays on.
Battery/Voltage
The battery warning light, when illuminated, indicates problems with a vehicle’s electrical system. While faulty batteries cause most warning lights, some are due to loose connections and damaged cables. If you aren’t sure where the problem lies, our automotive experts can diagnose and resolve these issues quickly.
Fuel Warning Light
Most people know what the low fuel light means: it’s time to stop for a fill-up. It’s not wise to let a vehicle run out of fuel, as it can put undue strain on the fuel pump. If your fuel warning light comes on, stop for gas as soon as possible.
Seat Belt Warning
This symbol comes when a vehicle starts and the occupants aren’t wearing seat belts. According to the Centers for Disease Control, seat belt usage decreases the risk of significant accident-related injuries to drivers and front-seat passengers by approximately 50%.
Got Car Trouble? Call an Automotive Expert
When your dashboard lights up, it’s only natural to worry. If any of these symbols appear on your dashboard, quick action will prevent serious problems. Bring your car, truck, van, or SUV in for service, and one of our trained technicians will resolve the issue quickly.
With a solid foundation in technology, backed by a BIT degree, Lucas Noah has carved a niche for himself in the world of content creation and digital storytelling. Currently lending his expertise to Creative Outrank LLC and Oceana Express LLC, Lucas has become a... Read more