What Do Those Warning Lights On Your Dashboard Mean?

When the warning light signals on your dashboard, you can easily go into the owner's manual for your vehicle to figure out what that sign means, but that doesn't necessarily mean that you are going to know what to do about it. Often times, people know what the warning signal means, but don't know what their first step to take should be. Here's what you should know:

  1. The Brake Fluid Warning Light: If the brake fluid warning light has turned on, you need to get your whole braking system checked right away. The reason for this is that the this warning light could also indicate a problem with another area aside from the fluid level is involved in the braking system. Since the brakes are extremely important, it's important not to wait. 
  2. The Check Engine Light: The next indicator is the check engine light. When this turns on, it's usually a minor issue that needs to be addressed. For example, it can simply mean that the gas cap is not screwed on all the way. It can even mean that a component of your engine is dirty and needs to be cleaned. However, it can also be an indicator of a major problem, so if tightening the gas cap didn't work, get your car checked right away. 
  3. The Tire Pressure Light: When your tires are losing pressure, this sign is going to turn on. This simply means that your tires need more air. However, if adding more air didn't do the trick, you probably need new tires either because there is a leak or there is too much wear and tear that the tire is virtually balding since it has no more tread. After adding air to the tires, drive a couple more times. If the light doesn't go away by then, have the tires inspected. 
  4. The Oil Warning Light: Finally, it the oil warning light turns on, it could mean that the oil is getting overheated or the pressure is low. Either way, this means that your engine is not receiving the proper benefits from your oil and you need to have it changed and possibly flushed right away. 

When you know what to do when these indicators come on, you don't have to be so stressed and overwhelmed about it since you will know what to do right away. This also ensures that you are not continuing to drive on the road if it's not safe to do so. Contact a shop, like Lamb's Automotive Repair with Care, for more help.

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