Most dash warning lights, tell you that a fault has occurred, inside the vehicle’s system.
So, dash warning lights provide an idea – sometimes precise, sometimes vague – of what’s wrong with a vehicle.
Because, dash warning lights, are only the messenger, to something going on. And, does not pinpoint the item or system that has failed.
Consequently, some dash warning lights, point to relatively small issues. But, some of the issues, are major. Unfortunately, there is no way to tell between them, by just looking at the warning light. So, the only way to find out what’s wrong with the vehicle, is to plug in a (OBD) scan tool.
Firstly, the scan tool and accompanied software, can read the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) from the system. So, every time the (OBD) system turns on a warning light, it will also store a (DTC) in the (ECU). The diagnostic trouble code (DTC), will give more information about the detected issue. NOTE: Many parts stores will read the code for free.
Dash warning lights are nothing new, but the messages are. Consequently, there are hundreds of different dash warning lights. The following list of dash warning lights, are the most common:
Not all dash warning lights are universal. So, always refer to your owner’s manual, when you’re not 100% sure, what the light actually means.
The More Common Dash Warning Lights You May See, With Important Information:
Check Engine Light (CEL) Or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
A check engine light coming on, tell you the engine computer, has set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). And, usually requires diagnosis, with a professional scan tool.
The Malfunction Indicator Light Can Signal, Three Different Types Of Problems:
- Occasional flashes, show temporary engine malfunctions. In this case, it is good to be aware of the possible forthcoming issues. Subsequently, which can later on turn into more serious ones.
- The most common case, is when the dash light, stays on constantly. This means there is a more serious problem. Yet, sometimes the issues aren’t that serious. But, can affect the emissions of the vehicle.
- The most serious type of warning is, when the (MIL), flashes all the time. It is a sign that your vehicle’s engine, is misfiring. Because, the issue is a major one, you should stop the engine immediately, to prevent serious damage.
Battery/Charging Alert
Most vehicles have an alternator, along with a voltage regulator, that keeps the battery charged. And, also provides electricity to the vehicle, when the engine is running. A simple circuit, looks at the voltage that the alternator is producing. And, turns the battery light on, if it is low.
Furthermore, shows voltage level is below normal level, and the vehicle’s charging system is not working properly. So, check battery terminals, alternator belt, and battery condition. Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
Engine Coolant Light
If you see the engine coolant light show up on your dashboard, it could mean coolant levels are running low. So, check the gauge on the side of the coolant tank, under the hood. And, top up if necessary. However, together with a temperature gauge reading well into the red, it could mean your engine is overheating.
Tells you the temperature has, exceeded normal limits and you need to check:
Transmission Temperature
The transmission is operating at higher than optimum temperature, as transmission fluid, is hotter than normal.
Check transmission fluid and engine coolant levels.
Oil Pressure Warning
STOP driving immediately and turn the engine off.
Possible Causes Of Low Oil Pressure Warning Light:
- A low oil level (check the dipstick)
- Bad oil pump
- Defective oil pressure sending unit
- Oil pressure gauge or warning light switch
If this light stays lit, it means there is a loss of oil pressure. Immediately check oil level and pressure.
Oil Change Reminder
This Is Monitored By The (ECM) And Tells You That, The Oil Life Has Expired.
So, the interval can be mileage or a combination of readings, taken by the (ECM). The owner’s manual lists the reset procedure. However, some vehicles require the use of special tools, to reset the light.
When the engine starts, the “oil change due” light should come on. But, only for 1 to 2 seconds and then go out. If the light stays on, the vehicle is due for an oil and filter change.
Service Vehicle Soon
Usually has a lighting or other electrical problem, that is controlled by the, body control module (BCM). Check all lights (headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and hazard lights). Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
The light comes on when, there is a fault condition, in an area of the vehicle chassis systems.
These systems may include:
- The anti-lock (ABS) brake system.
- Traction control (TCS) system.
- The electronic suspension system.
- Brake hydraulic system.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
So, the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), has found a tire with low air pressure. But, sometimes there may be a sensor malfunction. Check tire pressure.
Also, some vehicles will allow manual reset of (TPMS) warning light and others will require, professional diagnosis. Refer to your owner’s manual.
Brake System
Points to one of three possible conditions:
- Parking brake is on
- Problem with the braking system, brake fluid is low
- (ABS) problem
But, if the problem is in the (ABS) system, it may need professional diagnosis.
Reduced Engine Power
Lets you know, the engine has reduced engine power output.
Consequently, the (ECM) has many levels of reduced engine power, depending on what part has failed, in its control system. Usually requires diagnosis, with a professional scan tool. Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Light
Lets you know that the Anti-lock Brake computer, has set a code and needs professional diagnosis.
So, the (ABS) system, uses sensors at each wheel, to monitor their rotational speed. Furthermore, a computer monitors the signals, from all four wheels and the position of the brake pedal. This is to make sure that the vehicle is stable and under control.
If the computer notices any abnormal signals, or the lack of a signal from any of the sensors. Then, it will turn the (ABS) light on, to alert the driver of an issue. In addition, to monitoring the wheel speed sensors, the computer can turn the (ABS) light on for other reasons. For instance, low brake fluid levels or a blown fuse.
Gas/Fuel Cap
So, if your fuel cap light is on, it means that the computer has, detected a leak in the system. Usually, from a loose gas cap. Also. a leak somewhere else in the system, can also trick the computer into thinking, the gas cap is leaking.
If not addressed, quite often the check engine light (CEL), will also come on. Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
Cruise Control
Cruise control is a feature that comes in handy, when you drive at a constant speed. It is an electric system that allows you to set your car to a specific speed. Consequently, letting you take your foot, off the accelerator pedal. So, it can ease foot fatigue and stress, over a long drive.
Tells you that, the cruise control is set during driving.
(ESP) Fault
Confirms that there is a problem, with the vehicle’s traction control, anti-skid or electronic stability system.
Security Alert
So, if the symbol lights momentarily, it may mean that the ignition switch is locked. And, will need the proper transponder equipped key to restart.
If the symbol is visible, when the vehicle is on, then it usually means, a malfunction in the security system.
Lamp Out
Tells you, that there is an outside light on the vehicle, that is not working properly.
Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
Traction Control or (ESP)
This light Illuminates, when the vehicle’s traction control, anti-skid or electronic stability system is in use.
Usually, tells you, that conditions are slippery.
Door Ajar
Means, that a door (including hood and trunk) is not closed.
Open and close all doors, including hood and trunk. Because, if vehicle is left in this condition overnight, it can drain the battery.
Overdrive Light
This symbol tells you, that the vehicle’s overdrive system, has been manually turned off.
Usually, the overdrive system is controlled, by an on/off switch.
Airbag Fault
So, if this light stays on after starting, then the (OBD) system has found a fault, in the airbag system. As a result, the computer has set a code. Again, dash warning lights, are only the messenger.
Above all, professional repair of the supplemental restraint system, is highly recommended.
Washer Fluid Reminder
Lets you know, the washer fluid is low. Fill washer fluid tank.
The cap has a symbol, that looks like a windshield. Some vehicles have separate tanks, for front and rear window washers.
Fog Lamp
Confirms, that the vehicle’s front fog lamps, are on.
Conclusion
So, it could be something as minor as, a faulty sensor or a broken wire. But, it could also be, something more serious than that. Therefore, if left unchecked, the faulty issue, will cause lasting and expensive damage to your vehicle. And, in certain cases, it can result in, total breakdown of your vehicle.
However, dash warning lights are not going to warn you that:
- The water pump is about to fail.
- That one of the ball joints is worn out.
- Or even that the A/C is going to stop blowing cold air, in mid August.
Finally, if your vehicle drives, sounds, or smells funny, either fix it or take it to someone who can.
Thank You !
منبع: https://dannysengineportal.com/dash-warning-lights-only-provide-a-warning-something-is-wrong/