Car Engine Lights and What They Mean

Introduction

Your car’s engine light is a warning system that can alert you to potential problems with your vehicle. It is important to know what the different engine lights mean so that you can take appropriate action.

Types of Engine Lights

There are two main types of engine lights: check engine lights and warning lights.

Check engine lights are typically yellow or orange in color and indicate a potential problem with your vehicle. They can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Loose gas cap
• Faulty oxygen sensor
• Spark plug problems
• Catalytic converter issues
• Emission control problems

Warning lights, on the other hand, are typically red in color and indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. They can be triggered by factors such as:

• Low oil pressure
• Overheating engine
• Brake problems
• Airbag issues
• Battery problems

What to Do When an Engine Light Comes On

If your car’s engine light comes on, it is important to take action to address the problem. The specific steps you should take will depend on the type of engine light that has come on.

For check engine lights:

1. Check your gas cap. Make sure it is tightened securely.
2. Have your car’s diagnostic system checked by a qualified mechanic.
3. Follow the mechanic’s recommendations for repairs.

For warning lights:

1. Pull over to a safe location immediately.
2. Turn off your engine.
3. Call for roadside assistance or have your car towed to a repair shop.

Common Engine Light Symbols

There are many different engine light symbols that can appear on your dashboard. Here are some of the most common symbols and their meanings:

• Check engine light: This is the most common engine light symbol. It can indicate a variety of problems, from minor to severe.
• Oil pressure light: This light indicates that your car’s oil pressure is too low. Stop driving immediately and have your car towed to a repair shop.
• Coolant temperature light: This light indicates that your car’s engine is overheating. Stop driving immediately and allow the engine to cool down.
• Brake warning light: This light indicates that there is a problem with your car’s brake system. Have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately.
• Airbag warning light: This light indicates that there is a problem with your car’s airbag system. Have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately.
• Battery warning light: This light indicates that there is a problem with your car’s battery or charging system. Have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately.

Conclusion

Your car’s engine light is an important warning system that can help you stay safe on the road. It is important to know what the different engine lights mean so that you can take appropriate action when they come on.