Explonation of the Dashboard Warning Lights

Warning lights on the dashboard indicate various situations when problems with car systems occur - a dreaded check-engine light, improperly closed door or any other issues. However, drivers risk turning minor errors into potentially dangerous malfunctions without a proper understanding of the meaning behind a warning light. Thus, diving into this topic is critical to react quickly and efficiently. This post considers different groups of dashboard symbols and walks you through the most common warning lights. What is a car dashboard? - the first question that needs to be answered. A car dashboard (or instrument panel) is the vehicle's control panel in front of the driver that displays important info, such as fuel level, speed, system indicators, warning lights, etc. 

Car dashboard: symbols and meanings

First of all, not every symbol on your car's dashboard is necessarily a warning light. Some symbols indicate safety issues (e.g. lane departure warnings or blind-spot control), mechanical issues (warnings about increased engine temperature or low tyre pressure) and vehicle features (cruise control or lights). Secondly, every vehicle is different, so it is better to consult your vehicle's owner's manual if some questions arise. 

For signs on the car dashboard, the colour is especially meaningful. Blue or green lights simply signify that your system operates smoothly. Yellow/orange warning lights are usually indicative of repair. Whereas red and flashing lights refer to the most urgent warnings. In the latter case, drivers have to act immediately. Among the red dashboard lights, different categories suggest different issues:

• Some of the red lights are warnings about safety (e.g. a seat belt reminder); 
• Some of them display mechanical problems (e.g. engine overheating). 

Importantly, a red mechanical light indicates that you must stop driving immediately, as serious damage is likely to occur. 

Most common dashboard warning lights to pay attention to 

Oil pressure warning light

The indicator signals either a low oil level or insufficient oil pump circulation, meaning that engine components are not being lubricated properly. Instead of the symbol, some vehicles display the word oil. 

✔ What should you do?

If symbols on the dashboard display an oil light on the car, you have to pull over in a safe area, turn off the car and check your vehicle's oil. Inspect the engine bay for obvious oil leaks. Then, pull out the oil dipstick to check the fluid level. 

The light may disappear when you add oil. However, if the oil level is sufficient, and the engine still runs noisily, it may suggest a problem with the oil pump. If the engine runs smoothly and the oil level is fine, your oil pressure sensors can be out of order. By using inCarDoc, you can check if the issue comes from the lubrication system or sensors.

Tire pressure warning light

If TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) is solid, it means that the pressure of your tyre (s) is too high/low. If your tyres are inflated properly, but this symbol flashes when you turn on the car and remains illuminated, then the TPMS sensors are probably malfunctioning. 

✔ What should you do? 

Since driving on high-pressure tyres may damage your tyres, it is recommended to deflate/inflate tyres immediately. If there's a service station nearby, it is better to ask mechanics to replace/repair your tyre. The inCarDoc app has functions to detect log pressure irregularities and sensor malfunctions.

Engine temperature warning light 

This issue is usually related to overheating caused by problems with the antifreeze or cooling system. 

✔ What should you do? 

First, you have to turn off the A/C conditioning and turn on the heater. This way, you can redistribute heat. If that doesn't solve the problem, turn off your car. It is better to wait at least 15 minutes and allow the engine to cool. Importantly, avoid opening the hood when the engine is hot. If dashboard lights remain on, call a roadside assistance service. You may also utilise inCarDoc to detect cooling system errors.

Traction control light 

The traction control system aims to identify if one wheel of your vehicle spins faster than the others. If a wheel is slipping, the system applies the brakes for the vehicle to regain traction. The feature is indispensable for driving in harsh weather conditions.

✔ What should you do? 

Just continue driving, but keep in mind that the driving conditions are slippery. With inCarDoc, you can verify if sensors are working correctly. 

Besides that, the side light indicator on the car dashboard makes your vehicle visible in poor weather, dawn, dusk, etc. So you can use them if you park on the side of the road in poor weather conditions or in insufficiently lit areas. 

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light

In such cases, many drivers may ask: What do the lights on my dashboard mean? This safety system helps prevent the cars' wheels from locking up when drivers brake hard. ABS enables the wheels to rotate so that you can still steer and maintain control of your vehicle.

✔ What should you do? 

In this situation, you should schedule a car diagnostic check immediately. For early detection, use inCarDoc to read ABS-related errors. 

Traction control malfunction light

Sometimes this symbol can be triggered by a cracked, open or loose gas cap, which leads to fuel evaporation. If the light flashes briefly, the system indicates a slippery surface, so you don't have to worry about anything. 

✔ What should you do?

First, you can review your manual and check your ABS system and sensors. It is also a good idea to use inCarDoc for system fault detection. 

Battery Alert Light

Usually, the symbol signifies an issue with the car's charging system. Potential culprits encompass a damaged/loose battery cable or other electrical faults. Sometimes, your vehicle might not even start at all. You might also notice the headlights dimming.  

✔ What should you do?

In such cases, it is better to head to the nearest repair station to prevent serious malfunctions. With inCarDoc, you can check alternator health and battery voltage to find out the source of the problem. 

Low Fuel Indicator Light

This indicator on the car's dashboard of symbols and meanings usually implies that the car runs low on fuel. 

✔ What should you do?

It can be challenging to anticipate traffic patterns or weather conditions, so driving to the nearest gas station is the best option. To avoid unpleasant surprises, you can analyse fuel usage patterns with InCarDoc.