Dashboard Light Guide

Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling when a mysterious warning light appears on your car’s dashboard? It’s a familiar dread for many drivers. One winter, a customer came to our shop perplexed by a snowflake-looking dashboard warning light. We explained that it was the cold weather warning light, which signifies that the outside temperature is at or below freezing, and there may be a risk of icy or slippery conditions on the road. While some dashboard lights are nothing to worry about – like the snowflake – others are designed to alert you to potential problems with your car. That’s why we created this helpful dashboard light guide – to decode some of the most common dashboard warning lights and explain what to do about them.

Whether it’s the cold-weather warning light, the check engine light, or any other warning light, we want you to feel more confident and empowered behind the wheel. So, let’s dive in and demystify these dashboard lights together!

ABS warning light

The ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) warning light indicates an issue with your car’s braking system. If this light comes on, take it seriously and schedule a brake service appointment as soon as possible, as a faulty brake system can be dangerous. In addition to the warning light, squeaking, grinding, wheel or pedal shaking, and slow stopping when you apply the brakes are other signs that your brakes need attention.

Airbag warning light

The airbag warning light looks like an airbag or a person with a deployed airbag and indicates an issue with your car’s airbag system, which could prevent it from deploying correctly in an accident. It’s a good idea to ask your mechanic to check into this warning light to ensure your airbags function properly and can protect you and your passengers on the road.

Battery warning light

The battery warning light looks like a battery, which may include a plus or minus sign. This light indicates a possible problem with your car’s charging system, possibly due to a faulty alternator or battery. If this light comes on, have your mechanic check your battery, charging system and terminal condition. They may also check the cable connections, drive belts, and electrical connections to the  alternator to ensure the entire charging system works correctly.

Brake system warning light

The brake system warning light indicates a potential issue with your car’s braking system. This could be due to low brake fluid levels, worn brake pads, or a problem with the brake hydraulic system. A mechanic can help you diagnose this critical issue and safely get you back on the road.

Check engine light

The check engine light is perhaps your most common dashboard light, symbolized by an engine block or the words “check engine.” When this light comes on, it can indicate an issue with your car’s engine or emissions system. The cause could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or more severe problems, such as a faulty sensor or a misfiring engine. While not always cause for alarm, the check engine light warrants a visit to your mechanic for engine diagnostics. They can run a report to identify the causing problem and help you get it resolved quickly. If the check engine light is blinking continuously, the car should not be driven any further and should be immediately brought to your mechanic.

Cold weather warning light

The snowflake light, known as the cold weather warning light, alerts drivers that temperatures are at or below freezing. While not necessarily a cause for concern, taking extra precautions when driving in cold weather, such as slowing down, leaving extra space between vehicles, and using winter tires or chains if needed, is essential. Check the weather forecast and ensure your car is prepared for cold weather by checking antifreeze levels and battery charge.

Coolant temperature warning light

The coolant temperature warning light looks like a thermometer or radiator with waves. It indicates that your engine is overheating, which could be caused by various factors, such as a leaking radiator or a low coolant level. If you see this warning light or notice an elevated temperature gauge or smoke coming from the hood, pull over to a safe location and turn off your car to avoid engine damage. Let your engine cool down before checking your coolant level and inspecting your cooling system for any visible leaks. Then, schedule a cooling system service appointment with a mechanic as soon as possible to get you back on the road.

Oil pressure warning light This warning light indicates that the oil pressure in your engine is low, which can cause significant damage to your engine if left unchecked. Take immediate action if you see a light that looks like an oil can or dripping oil. Turn off your car and have it towed to a mechanic for oil service if necessary, as driving with low oil pressure can cause irreparable damage to your engine. Your mechanic will inspect your engine to determine the root cause of the low oil pressure.

Electric power steering (EPS) warning light

The warning light indicates a fault in the electric power steering system, an essential part of the car’s steering mechanism. The light usually appears red or amber, resembles a steering wheel or “EPS” letters, and could lead to dangerous driving conditions if ignored. A failing power steering system could make it challenging or impossible to steer your vehicle, so your mechanic must inspect and repair it as soon as possible.

Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light

The TPMS warning light illuminates when the system detects that one or more tires have low pressure, indicating a possible flat tire, or high pressure, indicating an overinflated tire. The warning light looks like an exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape, usually yellow or orange. It’s essential to address this warning light by checking the tire pressure and inflating (or repairing the tire) or reducing the tire pressure to prevent tire damage. If the light remains on, request a car service appointment.

Traction & stability control lights

The traction control (TC) and electronic stability control (ESC) warning lights look like a car with wavy lines, “TC” letters, or “ESC” letters and indicate car system issues that help prevent wheels from slipping and skidding. Both warning lights may come on temporarily during certain driving conditions. However, if the lights stay on or come on frequently, see your mechanic to ensure the systems function correctly to keep you safe on the road.

Transmission warning light

The transmission warning light is an essential dashboard light that indicates a problem with the car’s transmission system, which can lead to costly repairs or even complete transmission failure. The light typically appears as a gear-shaped symbol or an exclamation mark in a circle and can indicate various issues, from low fluid levels to malfunctioning sensors or gears. If you see this warning light, your mechanic can inspect, diagnose, and resolve the issue.

Dashboard Light Guide Wrap Up

As our cars become more advanced, they can communicate better than ever about their needs to help keep drivers safe. If you have a mysterious warning light on your dashboard, let us help you diagnose and resolve the issue. We are a family-owned local auto repair shop in Doylestown and a one-stop shop for factory-scheduled maintenance, PA-enhanced vehicle inspection, engine diagnostics, brake repair, tire installation, cooling system service, oil change, and everything in between. Trust us to take care of your car and keep you driving happy.