Get to Know Your Dashboard Lights

February 19, 2020
Walter Portier
auto, automobile insurance, Georgia, insurance, insurance agent, Ocilla, The Portier Agency

Get to Know Your Dashboard Lights

Dashboard lights are nothing new, but the messages are. The following list of car warning lights are the most common lights used by auto manufacturers. Not all warning lights are universal, some have different meanings. Always refer to your owner’s manual when you’re not 100% sure what the light indicates.

Many warning lights indicate that a fault has occurred inside the vehicle’s system, but it doesn’t pinpoint the item or system that has failed. In these cases, a code reader or scan tool can help determine the part that needs to be replaced. If an indicator light on your dash is on, visit your local AutoZone store to get the best products and information to help keep your vehicle running in top condition.

An easy-to-use tool to troubleshoot why your Check Engine Light is on, Fix Finder utilizes an extensive database of repair solutions from ASE certified mechanics to help you get to the most likely fix.

How does AutoZone Fix Finder work?

Fix Finder pulls your vehicle information, code and mileage.
This data is analyzed to give you verified fix solutions for your specific vehicle from over 5.5 million ASE-Certified technicians’ records.
These solutions are given to you in a FREE, easy-to-read MYZONE HEALTH REPORT.

Visit your local AutoZone store and let us help you find out if the problem is simple or serious

Your Check Engine Light may be indicating a simple problem that’s easy to fix – such as a loose gas cap. Or, it could be a warning of a more serious problem that could damage your engine components. Finding out why your light is on now can save you money and trouble down the road.

Vehicle Warning Light Information

Diesel fuel vehicles only:

Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL):Indicates the engine computer has set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). Usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool. Learn the top five reasons why your check engine light is illuminated.

Battery/Charging Alert:Indicates voltage level is below normal level and the vehicle’s charging system is not functioning properly. Check battery terminals, alternator belt, and battery condition.

Coolant Temp Warning:Indicates temperature has exceeded normal limits. Check coolant level, fan operation, radiator cap, coolant leaks.

Transmission Temperature:Transmission is operating at higher than optimum temperature as transmission fluid is hotter than normal. Check transmission fluid level and engine coolant level.

Oil Pressure Warning:If this light stays lit, it indicates loss of oil pressure. Immediately check oil level and pressure.

Oil Change Reminder:Indicates that oil life has expired. This is monitored by the ECM; the interval can be mileage or a combination of readings taken by the ECM. The reset procedure is listed in the owner’s manual. Some vehicles require the use of special tools to reset the light.

Service Vehicle Soon:Typically indicates a lighting or other electrical problem that is controlled by the BCM (body control module). Check all lights (head lights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights). This symbol may also be used to warn driver of a traction control problem, or a communication problem between modules.

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System):Indicates the tire pressure monitoring system has found a tire with low air pressure or there may be a sensor malfunction. Check tire pressure. Some vehicles will allow manual reset of TPMS warning light and others will require professional diagnosis. Refer to owner’s manual.

Brake System:Indicates one of three possible conditions: parking brake is on; problem with the braking system/brake fluid is low, or ABS problem. Check brake fluid and make sure the parking brake is fully released. If the problem is in the ABS system, it may need a professional diagnosis.

Reduced Power Warning:Indicates Engine Computer has limited engine power output. The ECM has many levels of reduced power depending on what component has failed in its control system. Usually requires diagnosis with a professional scan tool.

ABS Light:Indicates that the Anti-lock Brake computer has set a code and needs professional diagnosis.

Gas Cap:The check gas cap light indicates that the gas cap is not tightened properly. If not addressed, quite often the Check Engine Light will also illuminate.

Cruise Control:Indicates that cruise control is set during driving.

ESP Fault:Indicates that there is a problem with the vehicle’s traction control/anti-skid or electronic stability system.

Security Alert:If the symbol lights momentarily it may mean that the ignition switch is locked and will need the proper transponder-equipped key to re-start. If the symbol is […]

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