Repairing Your Car

3 Dashboard Warning Lights That Could Mean Major Problems

There are many things that can cause that pit feeling in your stomach, and one of them is when you start your vehicle and a light illuminates on your dashboard signaling that something is wrong with your vehicle. While your vehicle may sound and drive fine, there is an underlying problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Dashboard lights may not always require attention immediately, but they should never be ignored. If you ignore these dashboard warning lights, you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road or with your vehicle in the auto repair shop with a hefty auto repair bill. Keep an eye out for the following three dashboard lights that could mean significant auto trouble.

1. Battery

There are many instances when your battery light can be triggered. It can be because it is not charged enough, or it could be due to damaged battery plates or cable terminals. In other instances, there may be an issue with your vehicle's alternator. Whatever the case may be, if you are driving the vehicle when the warning light illuminates, do not stop your vehicle and turn off the engine. If you do, you run the risk of the car not starting back. So, unplug any type of electrical accessory that is not necessary and begin your route to your nearest auto repair shop for a battery test.

2. Oil

If the oil light illuminates, it usually means that your oil pressure or oil level is low. In either case, there is a chance that the engine could die on you while you are driving. This could cause significant damage to your engine as well as its components, not to mention the fact that it could lead to a serious vehicle collision. For the short-term, check your engine's oil. If it is low, add oil to the engine until you are able to get to an auto shop for an inspection.

3.  Brake

Your vehicle's braking system is crucial to the life of you and your passengers. Therefore, when that light illuminates on your dashboard, you know it is an emergency. Your first step is to inspect the emergency brake. Make sure that it is off. If it is, the light could be alerting you that your brake fluid levels are low or that there is an issue with the brake  hydraulic system. In either case, the ability for you to bring your vehicle to a stop safely is at risk. Therefore, it is imperative that you take your vehicle to an auto shop immediately for a full brake inspection. 

For more information, contact companies like White Pass Garage.


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