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ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS
We all tend to panic when we see that pesky light flash on our dash. When the check engine light illuminates on your dashboard, it’s more than just a mild inconvenience; it’s an alert from your vehicle, signaling that something may not be quite right under the hood.
This meticulous assessment harnesses the power of technology, as a skilled technician employs specialized tools to interface with the car's onboard computer system. By connecting to this digital brain, they can unlock a treasure trove of data—error codes that signal potential issues, sensor readings that reflect real-time performance, and various system metrics that paint a full picture of your vehicle’s health.
When it comes to dashboard lights, colors matter as well! Green or blue lights simply let you know that a system is on or operating, like the EcoBoost or the Drive light. Orange/yellow warning lights generally signify that your vehicle needs to be serviced or repaired soon, usually a maintenance light. Not always the case though! Those check engine lights are also an orange color and can sometimes be severe. These warnings are less urgent than if you have a red and/or flashing light.
A red light means that you should take action immediately! Some red dashboard lights are safety warnings (like a seat belt reminder) and others are mechanical (like the engine overheating). If a red light comes on, pull over as soon as able and figure out what’s going on. Your vehicle will likely stop working or become damaged if you continue to drive.
As you read through this list, here are two things to keep in mind:
1. Every car is different, so the symbols on your dashboard may vary slightly from the ones on our list. If in doubt, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual!
2. Many of these dashboard lights will illuminate briefly when you turn on your vehicle and performs a system check. As long as the lights turn off within a few seconds, everything is operating normally.
18 Common Warning Lights that can be found on Your Car’s Dashboard
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light
4. Traction Control Alert Light
5. Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light
6. Traction Control Malfunction Light
7. Engine Warning Light (Check Engine Light)
8. Battery Alert Light
9. Low Fuel Indicator Light
10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light
11. Seat Belt Reminder Light
12. Airbag Warning Light
13. Security Indicator Light
14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light
15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light
16. Brake Warning Light
17. Lane Departure Warning Light
18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
Often referred to as a warning light or check engine light, can flicker on for a myriad of reasons, ranging from minor glitches to serious mechanical issues that could compromise your vehicle's performance. Ignoring this warning can potentially lead to escalating problems that not only affect your car’s health but could also leave you stranded on the side of the road. Our team of expert automotive technicians is ready to step in, providing a swift and accurate diagnosis to ensure you understand the underlying issue and get back on the road with confidence.
Equally important is the antilock brake system (ABS) light, which serves as a critical indicator of your car’s braking performance. When this warning light appears, it signals that your ABS may not be functioning optimally, which can prevent your wheels from locking up and losing traction during sudden stops. This is not just a minor alert; it’s a safety concern that demands immediate attention. Failing to address an illuminated ABS light can lead to loss of control during critical driving situations, potentially resulting in accidents. If you spot this warning, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We can promptly identify the cause of the issue and take the necessary steps to restore your vehicle’s safety features.
So, the next time your check engine or ABS light shines bright on your dashboard, remember that it's not just an annoyance—it's a call to action. Pay careful attention to how your vehicle is performing. If anything feels off, don’t ignore the signs. We can help guide you to what the cause is and a few options on the best approach.
