Dashboard Alerts Decoded: A Guide to Common Mechanical Issues in Cars

You're driving along the highway when suddenly, a light comes on your dashboard. But is there any significance to these lights, and what do they mean?

These warning lights are symbols and your car's way of communicating that there is an issue with your car that needs immediate attention. The issue can be anything from low oil pressure to deflated air in your tires. Each sound and flicker of light on your dashboard sends an alert, a warning that you need to get it checked and fixed.

However, many of our customers are naive enough to decipher the warning. Thus, this blog will help you decode the most common dashboard warnings and what they signify for your car's well-being. Let’s start!

Common Dashboard Alerts And Mechanical Issues They Indicate

Your dashboard warning lights are designed to give early notice of potential problems. These indicators can help prevent costly repairs and improve your safety. Let's consider each indicator and how it relates to common mechanical maladies.

1. Engine Oil Warning Light:

The engine oil warning light generally appears as a symbol of an oil can and is one of the most important warning signs. This light indicates oil pressure or oil level problems in your vehicle, which can lead to several issues.

Low oil pressure can cause parts in the engine to grind together, causing catastrophic engine damage. If the oil level exceeds the minimum, the pump may not pump oil properly. Other likely causes may include a faulty oil pump, a clogged oil filter, or a malfunctioning internal oil pressure sensor.

Since this light can result in heavy engine damage, it is crucial to stop immediately and check the engine oil level whenever you see a light flicker on your dashboard. This leads to 2 solutions: either go for an oil refill, or if the light stays on, check your car for oil leaks and seek professional assistance immediately for Engine Repairs.

2. Transmission Warning Light:

When the transmission warning light comes on, it usually means something is wrong with your car's automatic transmission. Possible causes include low transmission fluid, overheating, or internal transmission failure.

The light could also indicate an issue with the shift interlock system, which prevents the gear shift from being changed until the brake pedal is pressed. So, whenever this warning light comes on, do not ignore it and get transmission services done.

Therefore, pull over carefully, don't continue driving, and check the transmission fluid level if possible. Driving with this warning light lit up could accelerate the situation and keep you stranded in remote locations.

3. Brake Warning System:

A warning brake light is likely the most critical caution on your dashboard. When this light illuminates, it indicates that something is wrong with your brake system. Possible reasons may be low brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, a malfunctioning parking brake, or even a hydraulic failure.

At times, a faulty sensor can also make this light turn on. If you see this light, get your vehicle over to a safe location as soon as possible. Make sure that the parking brake is switched off and check under your car for any leaks.

Also, check your brake fluid level. Don’t ignore this warning light and get your Brake Serviced, as brake issues while driving can put your life and other people's lives in danger.

4. Cooling Temperature Warning Light:

The temperature light for cooling is in a thermometer shape and is usually red, amber, or blue. Red or amber means your engine is overheated and needs instant attention. It could be because of low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a broken radiator fan.

If the light comes on, let the engine sit for at least 30 minutes, check the coolant level in the reservoir, and refill it with the correct type of coolant if it's low. If the coolant leaks or the light stays on, have the mechanic look.

And if you witness a blue cooling temperature light, it means the engine is too cold. This is normal when you begin driving your car for the first time, and usually turns off as the engine warms up.

If it stays on for too long, your engine may not be reaching optimal temperature, affecting performance and fuel consumption and might need Car AC Mechanical Service.

5. Power Steering Warning Light

The power steering warning light is typically a steering wheel with an exclamation point and can be in red, orange, or yellow color. This warning means that something is at fault in your car's power steering system.

In cars with hydraulic steering, low fluid is the most common cause. System leaks or a faulty pump can also trigger the light to illuminate. In electric power steering vehicles, a battery or alternator issue can be the culprit.

If this light comes on, you might experience the steering feel harder or jerky. Your vehicle will be hard to drive, especially at low speeds or when turning tight corners. If the warning light comes on, check the power steering fluid level. Add the fluid if necessary and reboot your vehicle.

6. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

The TPMS light is shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation mark in the center. When this light is on, it means one or more of your tires are either underinflated or overinflated.

Both scenarios are hazardous. Underinflated tires may cause poor fuel economy, sluggish handling, and excessive heating. Overinflated tires decrease traction and tread wear.

If the light comes on and stays on, inspect all tires with a tire pressure gauge and reset pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications. You will usually find these numbers on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb.

7. Battery Warning Light

Any battery warning light looks like an Automobile Battery is generally red, indicating a failed battery or charging system. Some of its causes may include an overheated alternator, a weak battery, a dead alternator, or loosely corroded battery cables.

If this light comes on while driving, your vehicle will continue to move, though only on battery power! If the alternator fails completely, the vehicle stalls.

When you see such a light, turn off accessories that are not in use, such as the air conditioning and the radio, to minimize the load on the battery. Then, drive the car into a repair shop as soon as possible.

Get All Your Car Repairs Handled By TyresWorld

TyresWorld is a trustworthy Car Mechanical Service provider that understands how frustrating it can be with dashboard indicators light up. This is why we offer prompt and dependable car care services at affordable rates throughout the United Arab Emirates by our experienced technicians.

We will use advanced diagnostic tools to find exactly what the problem is and offer professional repair and maintenance services. Don't let a light on your dashboard turn into a major breakdown. Come on in, and let us get you rolling again, safely and smoothly.

Conclusion

So, now you know that decoding alerts on your dashboard can help you take swift action and avoid costly repair bills. At TyresWorld, we work with a team of experienced professionals who will help you understand the issues, decode them, and offer solutions that will increase the longevity of your vehicle.

So, visit us today and get your vehicle inspected by our experts and ensure your safety on the road.