You may have seen some of these illuminated symbols on your dashboard when you start your car. While these lights usually come off right after, drivers should still learn the different dashboard lights and their meaning. One of these pesky lights may pop up and not go away until it gets the necessary fix at some point in your vehicle ownership.
Warning lights on the dashboard are simply warning alerts. If one of the lights lingers, your car has a problem that needs to be inspected and repaired. Dashboard warning lights may vary by vehicle, so you refer to your owner's manual to see your vehicle-specific lights. Also, you can refer to this blog for a quick guide on the most prevalent warning lights!
Check Engine Light
The check engine light usually means that there's something wrong with the engine combustion process. It might have to do with the ignition, fuel injection, or emission control. Even if your car appears to be running fine, you need to get the check engine light diagnosed. You should know that a flashing check engine light requires immediate attention as opposed to a constant one.
Brake System or ABS Warning
A lighted brake system light could mean the parking brake is on, brake fluid is low, or there's an error with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). You should first check to ensure the parking brake is off and have a professional mechanic inspect your brake fluid levels. If those are checked off, they will probably look at your ABS more closely.
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
The TPMS light indicates that at least one of your tires has low air pressure, or there could be an issue with the tire sensors. It would help if you manually verified your tire pressure using a gauge. And you can simply top it off with the necessary amount of air.
Oil Pressure Warning
When the oil pressure warning light is lit, it signifies a loss of oil pressure within your car. A technician at Oakmont Auto Care can take care of you and your engine oil.
Battery/Charging Warning
The battery light indicates that the battery voltage level is below average and the charging system is not functioning correctly. Not only should you test the battery, but you should check the alternator and battery terminals.
If you need any of your warning lights diagnosed, repaired, or reset, please come by Oakmont Auto Service.