Warning lights indicate something is wrong with one or more vehicle systems. The light for the defective system will illuminate when the system computer determines that a problem exists. The information is stored as a code, usually an alphabetical letter followed by numbers. A brief description of the code is included. Other data to support the code is available to guide the Technician in diagnosing the problem.
The maintenance Required light, which may appear as a wrench, warns you that you are due for scheduled maintenance. It comes on based on the manufacturer’s mileage intervals. Check the current mileage on the odometer and look at the Owner’s manual for the service required.
The check engine or service engine soon lights, or a symbol that looks like an engine will be amber in color. This light can illuminate for many different reasons. It pertains to the engine and fuel system emissions. If these systems are not working well, the light will illuminate, and you must check the vehicle. The car must be parked at a repair facility or home if the light flashes.
The anti-lock Brake System (A.B.S.) is designed to reduce skidding chances. The A.B.S. computer reads individual wheel speeds and makes adjustments, such as adjusting the braking force to the wheel that is out of range. The A.B.S. warning light comes on when there is a problem with the system. While the light is illuminated, the system is nonoperational. Take the vehicle to a shop for repairs.
The brake warning light is red when illuminated. It comes on if the parking brake is set or when the brake fluid is low. These are easy checks that the operator can make. If the brake fluid level is OK and the parking brake is not engaged, take the vehicle to a shop. In some cases, the brake and A.B.S. will appear at the same time. If this happens, take the car to a shop.
The Traction Control System (T.C.S.) works with the A.B.S. brake system and other systems depending on the vehicle’s make. The T.C.S. light will illuminate if there are any diagnostic trouble codes. If the light comes on, the system is disabled. See a certified service center.
The engine oil light is red and may appear like an oil container. If this light comes on, safely park the vehicle as soon as possible (ASAP). The engine is usually nearly out of oil, and severe engine damage will occur. If the car has a gauge and the indicator drops very low or near 0, this is another indication that the vehicle is low on oil. In some cases, mechanical problems will cause low oil pressure or the light to come on.
The Battery light. This light is for the charging system and the battery. If the light comes on, the battery is not being charged, and you have a minimal time before the battery voltage is too low for the vehicle to stay running. Turn off as many accessories as safely possible and get to an automotive service center for
testing to determine the problem.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System. This light looks like a tire with an exclamation mark in the center. It will come on when the tire pressure is low in one or more tires. Low tires can be caused by a road hazard, slow leak, or a lack of checking the pressure for several months. Extreme cold weather will drop the tire pressure and cause the light to be on, then go off after the tires warm up.