You may have encountered a situation like this before. You’re driving down the road when all of a sudden, you hear a beeping noise followed by a symbol flashing on your dashboard, forcing you to pull over. As a car owner, you should know what these warning lights mean.
Reasons for Having Warning Indicators
All cars have warning lights to let the driver know of internal problems. These indicators may be displayed in either red, yellow, green, or blue, depending on their importance. Even though green and blue aren’t as urgent, it’s still advisable to double-check and consult a mechanic before using the vehicle again.
Common Warning Indicators
Now that you know why there are indicators, here are a few common warning lights and what they mean. Being familiar with these indicators can help you become a better driver and car owner.
- Check Engine – This light is in the shape of a car engine and would typically be in yellow. It tells the driver that there’s an issue with the car’s engine. As soon as this warning appears, it’s best to postpone any trips and see a mechanic.
- Engine Oil Pressure – It is a red warning light in the shape of an old-fashioned oil lamp. If this lights up, it means there’s an issue with the car’s oil pressure. If the oil is not circulating properly, there will be more friction between the parts, making your car perform worse.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System – This warning light is in the shape of a half-circle with an exclamation point. It can be indicated in either red or yellow. When this flashes, it signifies incorrect tire pressure. Pull over to the nearest tire inflator and fix the issue immediately as it is dangerous to drive on under or overinflated tires.
- Engine Temperature – This warning symbol is a red thermometer. It tells the driver that the car’s engine has overheated. Overheating can be due to a variety of reasons. The coolant may be low, or you may have a leak in your cooling system.
- Low Fuel Warning – Low fuel warning is fairly self-explanatory. It’s in the shape of a gasoline pump and indicates that you need to refuel.
Those are just some of the common warning lights and their meanings. If you need an engine check or car maintenance, contact Graham Tire. Our highly qualified mechanics perform top-notch automotive repair and mechanic services. We have four locations in Lincoln, NE ready to serve you.
