Dashboard Warning Lights 101

Drivers must be aware of everything that is going on in the vehicle and on the road. To aid you in your everyday journeys, car manufacturers have implemented a variety of instruments and lights on your dashboard. Speed, fuel level, vital systems, and many others can be monitored at any time. Your dashboard is home to all kinds of lights, here are some of them that you shouldn't ignore.

1. Check Engine Light

Your vehicle's check engine light can turn on at any point and it can mean a wide variety of things. The thing is that it doesn't only mean a problem with your engine, it can also be insufficient air supply, bad ignition, and faulty sensors which monitor important systems. If you don't want to second guess your best option is to have it checked and repaired by a specialist 

2. Low Oil Pressure 

The engine needs a sufficient supply of oil everywhere it needs it. This happens by the rise of the oil's temperature which pressurizes it and brings it to the higher parts of the motor. If there is a leak somewhere on the gaskets or a crack on the block, pressure can’t build up and as a result the low oil pressure light switches on.

3. Tire Pressure Warning Light

From time-to-time tires need to be filled with air. If you tend to forget or something punctures them, your dashboard has a light just for that. Newer vehicles have pressure sensors in each tire, to ensure they don’t go unnoticed when deflated. Ignoring the tire pressure light can not only damage your wheels, but it can also pose a threat to your safety and ability to drive properly.

4. Low Fuel Level

The moment you see the low fuel level lamp on, you should reroute to the nearest gas station for a refill. It shows that you have a few miles left before it's empty, depending on your vehicle's fuel tank.

5. High Engine Temperature

Engines normally reach a temperature of 196 to 220 degrees, which may seem quite a lot but it's normal. When things heat up excessively and start to spin out of control, a lamp in the gauge cluster will alert you. Don’t let this warning sign trick you into going a couple more miles. We recommend that you visit a repair shop immediately.

Every lamp on your dashboard is important by itself but keep an eye on these five. If you notice them, be sure to stop by Woodie's Auto Service & Repair Center so we can fix your car and get you back on the road.