Six Common Dash Indicator Lights

Any time a light comes on your dash, you are likely concerned your car is broken. These warning lights alert you to a problem somewhere in your vehicle, ranging from minor issues to major failures. Depending on what’s going wrong, there are a few lights you could see. In this article, we are going over the six most common indicator lights that you may see come on in your car. Head to the bottom of the article to watch our technician Zach go over all of these lights!

1.) Check Engine Light

The infamous check engine light is well known to anyone who drives. This light is triggered when the engine control unit detects a fault. A transmission fault can also cause a check engine light on some vehicles.

A wide range of issues can trigger a check engine light but often, it can be a relatively minor problem. Modern vehicles’ advanced computer systems are sensitive to any change.

If you get a solid check engine light, don’t panic. Bring your car to a trusted auto repair shop to get the fault code read. If the check engine light is flashing, pull over and stop driving immediately. Flashing CELs indicate a misfire, which can result in expensive damage to the catalytic converter.  

2.) Tire Pressure Light

The tire pressure indicator light lets you know that one or more of your tires have low pressure. This light can be annoying, but low tire pressure can be a safety risk. Underinflated tires impact vehicle handling and can increase your risk of an accident.

Beyond safety, low tire pressure can impact gas mileage and tire wear, increasing the maintenance and operating cost of your vehicle.

3.) ABS Light

ABS stands for Anti-Lock Braking System. Modern vehicles employ ABS to prevent your brakes from locking up when you step on the pedal, allowing your car to safely stop.

When the ABS light comes on, the anti-lock braking system malfunctions. With the snowy and Icey conditions we experience in Northern Idaho, it’s important to get the system looked at as soon as possible. There is an increased likelihood of skidding and losing control of your vehicle when the ABS is not working correctly.

4.) Brake Light

The brake light indicator can look different depending on the car. This warning light can warn you of issues with the hydraulic system, brake pad life, low brake fluid, or issues with sensors.

Another common cause of an illuminated brake light is an emergency brake. If you see the light, make sure the e-brake is fully released!

5.) Oil Pressure Light

If you get an oil pressure light while driving, immediately pull over and turn off the engine. Without proper oil pressure, you can quickly ruin your engine due to a lack of lubrication. In this case, the only safe thing you can do is call a tow truck.

The oil pressure light may be caused by a faulty sensor, but the risk is not worth it. A tow and sensor replacement will still be quicker and cheaper than having to replace your entire engine.

6.) Battery Light

The red battery charge light lets you know there is an issue with the charging system. You may have an alternator on its way out or a simple dead battery. This light can be accompanied by no-start conditions or a completely dead battery.

Bring your Car to Lake City Auto Care

No matter what indicator light you have on the dash, you can trust the teams at Lake City Auto Care to diagnose the issue and recommend the fix needed to get you back on the road quickly and efficiently. We have three shops in Hayden, Rathdrum, and CDA, Idaho. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!