Common Dashboard Warning Lights & What They Mean

When you start your vehicle, the dashboard warnings lights will flash quickly. If a warning light stays on, you have to weigh how urgent the potential problem may be. If multiple lights stay on, contact your mechanic for recommendations on how to proceed.

We’ve put together a list of Common Dashboard Warning Lights and what they mean to help you determine how soon you need repair and whether you should be driving in the meantime.

Check Engine Dashboard Warning Light

Check Engine
Warning: Moderate Urgency

The seriousness of your check engine light varies depending on the problem. Most often, the issue is minor and it’s ok to drive with the light on (preferably to an auto shop to have the problem diagnosed & repaired). First thing to check is the gas cap – is it on properly? If so, the problem is likely something more discreet like a bad oxygen sensor. An OBD2 scanner can tell you exactly what signaled the check engine light; since your engine control unit is sending the signal to turn your check engine light on. If you do not have an OBD2 scanner at home, your local auto shop can help you.

Oil Pressure Dashboard Warning Light

Oil Pressure
Warning: Urgent

Your oil pressure warning light is an important one to look out for. If your vehicle is old or you have not had it serviced in sometime, it could be signaling that your oil level is too low and it needs to be filled as soon as possible. If you get regular oil changes and it’s unlikely you are low on oil, then there may be a problem with your vehicle’s oil pressure system. That type of problem will need immediate attention from a mechanic.

Tire Pressure Dashboard Warning Light

Tire Pressure
Warning: Moderate Urgency

You should always keep an eye on your vehicle’s tire pressure. The manufacturer’s recommended PSI yields the best performance. Tire pressure that is too low or too high will signal your tire pressure warning light. When this happens, you should check your PSI as soon as possible and refill or let out air if needed. Tire pressure that is too low will cause rapid tire wear and you even risk a blowout under the right conditions. Tire pressure that is too high will also wear your tires quickly and decrease your control.

Battery Dashboard Warning Light

Battery Charging
Warning: Urgent

When your battery charging light comes on, it’s likely because there is a problem with the battery or alternator. Get to a mechanic or service center as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed and the malfunctioning battery or alternator replaced. Ignoring your battery warning light could result in a loss of power.

Engine Temperature Dashboard Warning Light

Engine Temperature
Warning: Urgent

Your engine is a complex machine that needs help maintaining a safe temperature. If the engine temperature light turns on, you need to pull over and turn your car off. The engine temperature is too high for safe operation. Contact your mechanic for advice on roadside repair or towing.

Have a dashboard warning light on? If you’re in Burlington, WI and need repair, choose Wisco Automotive!