Car Warning Lights, what do they mean?
- simon underdown
- Nov 6, 2024
- 3 min read
It can be alarming when an engine warning light flashes up on your car dashboard, but try not to panic. In this article we’re going to explore what the different car warning lights mean, why they appear, and what you should do if you see them.
Car warning light symbols usually appear in four possible colours depending on the type and severity of the warning. The whereabouts of the icons will differ from car to car, so use your car's user manual to familiarise yourself with the warning lights on your dashboard. The following infographic includes a list of the car warning lights that you may come across.
Six Most Common Engine Warning Lights
Battery Light
This light looks like a square battery with a positive side and negative side. When this light comes on, it means that your battery isn’t charging properly. It is completely normal for this light to come on when you start your vehicle, but if it stays on, you need to get that checked out by one of our mobile mechanics. This light could not only indicate an issue with the battery’s ability to charge, but it could also be an issue with the voltage regulator, wiring in your car, or the alternator. It could be hard to tell what the problem is if you don’t have the proper training, so we would recommend that you book an appointment very soon.
Anti-Lock Brake System
The Anti-Lock Brake System light looks like a circle and has the letters ABS in the center. If this light comes on, then there is a problem with your braking system. ABS prevents skidding when you apply pressure to the brakes, without that feature you could be putting yourself in immediate danger. This is a situation where you would want to call us at Wrench as soon as the light comes on. We will come to you and get it all fixed so you can get back on the road safely.
Automatic Gearbox
This light looks like a gear with an exclamation point in the center. When it comes on, you will know that there is an issue with your transmission. If you see this light on your dashboard, you should contact a mobile mechanic so your riding experience will be improved. There are many symptoms of a bad transmission and by the point this light comes on, you may have already been experiencing those symptoms. So book your convenient appointment today and we will get your vehicle running at it’s best once again.
Emissions Control
This light is also known as a Check Engine Light. It looks like a car engine, or a funky rectangle if you don’t know what a car engine looks like. This light can indicate a wide variety of problems such as issues with your oxygen sensor, engine compression, or even your gas cap. The best thing to do for this light is to get it checked out by one of our mobile mechanics because it could range anywhere from not serious to extremely serious!
Engine Oil
This light looks like a teapot with a drop coming out. When this light comes on, it means that your oil levels are low. You want to get that checked out fairly soon because ignoring it could damage your vehicle a lot. Thankfully with Wrench you will be receiving the most convenient services around because we come to you! There’s no excuse for putting off a visit to the shop when we will bring the shop to you.
Tyre Pressure
The tire pressure light looks like a fish bowl with an exclamation point in the center. This light commonly comes on during the winter months when the temperature drops and the air pressure decreases. If you are seeing this during the summer months, then it is very important that you get it checked out to make sure the air pressure of your tires is within the acceptable range. No matter what light comes on, you should schedule an appointment with Wrench in order to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive!
Commenti