Dashboard warning lights aren’t there to be ignored
If you’ve driven a vehicle for any length of time, odds are a warning light has flashed on your dashboard.
Some dashboard warning lights are specific to brands and models while others are common to all makes and models.
Not all warning lights are created equal, though. For instance, a red warning light usually warns of a potentially serious problem, possibly a safety issue. Or it could alert a driver to the need for service maintenance.
A yellow or orange light means that a mechanical or electrical component requires immediate repair or servicing. If the light is flashing, you should contact your local new car dealership right away.
A green or blue light is no cause for concern; it means that a specific system is operating as it should.
If a critical warning light comes on, it should be addressed immediately. In some cases, this means pulling the car over and having it towed to a repair facility.
Ignoring a critical warning light not only jeopardizes the safe operation of your vehicle, it could also compromise your manufacturer’s warranty.
Here are some common critical warning lights that are installed on modern passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks:
Oil pressure. This refers to possible low oil levels, a worn or broken oil pump or excessive main bearing wear. Ignoring this issue could result in a seized engine or major engine damage.
Brake warning. This could refer to driving with the handbrake engaged, low brake-fluid level or wornout brake pads. Brakes are the most important part of your vehicle — they affect the safety of the driver and all occupants.
Airbag SRS. If this warning light comes on, your airbag is not going to inflate on impact, which could jeopardize your safety. Malfunction is usually caused by a crash-sensor fault, bad electrical connection or airbag module malfunction.
Engine temperature. This could indicate low coolant level, the cooling fan isn’t working or a thermostat that fails to open. If this light flashes on, stop driving immediately, turn off the engine and seek mechanical assistance. Driving while the temperature light is on can do serious and expensive engine damage.
Battery charging system. This usually refers to an alternator failure, loose or torn alternator belt, faulty battery or a broken wire. The light indicates a problem with the charging system. Get it repaired at your earliest convenience.
Tire pressure. This light could be triggered by a flat tire, low tire pressure, tire pressure light not being reset or a bad air-pressure sensor. Excessively worn tires or insufficient tire pressure not only affects fuel economy, they pose a risk.
Some warning lights are less critical than others, such as service engine soon, seatbelt warning light, low fuel, door ajar, overdrive off and service reminder.
Sometimes a flashing light can represent a loose connection or an on-board computer module that has to be reset, which is a quick and inexpensive procedure.
For information about dashboard warning lights, consult your owner’s manual, or contact a service adviser at your new-car dealership.
Once again, the TADA is proud to support Prostate Cancer Canada. This year, our association has donated a custom 2016 Audi S5 (valued at more than $119,443) for the Rock the Road Raffle.
For ticket information, visit rocktheroadraffle.ca.
For information about where the auto industry is going, or if you’re looking for new career opportunities, visit carsandjobs.com. This column represents the views of TADA. Email president@tada.ca or go to tada.ca. Doug Sullivan is president of the Trillium Automobile Dealers Association of Canada. He is a new-car dealer in Huntsville, Ont.