Dashboard warning lights can be confusing for many drivers, as they indicate various potential issues. The team at Sommer Car Care in Brisbane offers quick diagnostics for your European car to prevent minor problems from becoming costly repairs. Continue reading for an overview of the various lights on your dashboard, including descriptions of their meanings and recommended actions to take when they appear. Call today.
Car Warning Lights
Here’s a look at the types of dash warning lights.
Check Engine Warning Lamp
The check engine symbol is one of the most common and easily recognisable automotive warning lights. If it’s flashing, this may indicate a serious fault, such as a broken or malfunctioning part. If the light remains steady, it should still be safe to drive, but you may need to bring it in to one of our mechanics for an inspection.
Brake System Alert Light
When you see a light that looks like a circle with an exclamation mark inside, there’s an issue with your brakes. You’ll most often see this light if your handbrake is still activated when you start to drive, but also if there’s another, less visible fault. First, check that your handbrake is completely disengaged, and if the brake system alert light remains on, check your brake fluid. If the light remain or the warning is more than just a light and accompanied by the mfd warning it is best have it checked as soon as possible.
Dash Warning Lights: Check Battery
This engine warning light illuminates when your battery is getting low on power. It usually appears when your car is struggling or failing to start. You may have an issue with your alternator, which charges your battery while you drive. If you’re car struggles to turn on, get your battery checked immediately, as there may be a more serious issue than a flat. Contact one of our expert mechanics to help replace or repair the alternator and battery in your European car. The battery light is never caused by a flat battery and is almost 100% an issue with the charging system of the car and should be taken seriously and taken straight to a service centre.
Automotive Warning Lights: Oil Pressure
Ignoring low oil pressure in your car can cause serious damage to the engine. If you see a car warning light that looks like a little oil can on your dashboard, pull over immediately and turn off your engine to let it cool down. Once the engine settles, check your oil level and top it up if necessary. If the light stays on, call for roadside assistance. Failing to address oil pressure issues can cause the engine to seize, causing costly repairs.
Engine Warning Light: Temperature
The temperature light is a check engine warning lamp that illuminates when your car is overheating. Your engine could be low on coolant, or there may be a thermostat problem. Pull over and let the engine cool down, top up coolant where necessary or use water if you don’t have access to coolant. This should help you get home or to a service station. If the temperature light remains on, call roadside assistance, as driving may exacerbate the problem.
Visit Sommer Car Care in Brisbane for expert diagnostics and reliable automotive repairs. Contact us online today.