Keeping a car running in pristine condition requires periodic repairs and the occasional scheduled maintenance appointment. More often than not, your vehicle will notify you of any service that it needs to continue performing optimally. Its dashboard contains dozens of lights. When illuminated, each will alert you of an internal mechanism that may need professional attention. While not all these car warning light symbols indicate an impending catastrophic failure, some of them will require more urgent care than others. Take a moment to refresh yourself of the most common dashboard warning lights, what to do when they turn on, and the technology ready to assist you before disaster strikes.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning
Anti-lock braking is designed to prevent your vehicle’s wheels from locking up under heavy brake pressure. This system allows you to maintain control on the road and limit your chances of skidding. An illuminated ABS warning light likely means that your brake fluid levels are too low. Head to your local dealership service center for a refill on your brake fluid. If doing so does not resolve the problem, a more serious issue may be present that must be addressed by a trained technician.
Washer Fluid Indicator
Washer fluid is responsible for powering your windshield wipers to ensure you have an unobstructed driving view. This indicator suggests that your vehicle is running low. Like brake fluid, your local dealer service technician can refill the reservoir for you.
Tire Pressure Warning Light
Also referred to as the TPMS symbol, the tire pressure warning light is meant to signal that one or more of your tires contain too much or too little pressure. Tire pressure that is too low or too high will negatively affect the life of your tires, as well as how many miles your vehicle can travel on a single tank. Tire maintenance is crucial for the overall drivability and longevity of your vehicle, so it’s important to ensure you are taking all necessary service measures. Taking care of a TPMS light quickly will save you lots of money in the long run.
Battery Alert
If your battery indicator light is showing, it normally communicates that your car’s charging system is lacking power. It could also indicate that you have a damaged battery cable or alternator belt. When your battery light comes on while driving, it is best to discontinue the use of all car accessories (air conditioning, phone chargers, etc.) and locate the nearest technician.
Check Engine Light
Because the check engine light is often considered the “wild card” of vehicle dashboard indicators by seasoned mechanics, it is also one of the most ignored. According to a recent survey, 46 percent of drivers ignore the check engine light for two to three days before investigating the issue. While you could be warned of a simple issue, such as a loose gas cap, it could also be warning you of severe damage to your car’s motor. As you’ll rarely know what the cause of this light is until you have it checked, it’s best to address the matter as soon as possible.
Better Understand Car Warning Light Symbols with Elo GPS and CarRx
Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Elo GPS and CarRx is the solution you need to accurately diagnose any vehicle issues that may be hindering its performance. The system’s connected vehicle technology automatically scans the vehicle every 15 minutes, providing you with regular updates related to the health and condition of the engine, tires, battery, and more. Comprehensive diagnostic reports don’t just alert you of the issue, but they will also give you detailed explanations on all car warning light symbols to ensure you know exactly the right course of action to take to mitigate further risks. Additionally, you can schedule service appointments at your nearest dealership right from your smartphone through the CarRx app. To learn more about Elo GPS and CarRX, contact our team today to find a dealer near you.