Warning Lights: What They Mean and Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them

Key Takeaways:

• Warning lights will notify you if something’s wrong or malfunctioning happens in your car.
• They can keep you safe while on the road and also preserve the life of your vehicle.
• The following warning lights include an anti-lock braking system, check engine, engine pressure, oil and tire pressure, coolant temperature light, battery warning light, power steering, and airbags warning lights.
• Check the conditions of your Mazda regularly with the help of Cutter Mazda in Waipahu, HI.

There is a purpose for the warning lights on the dashboard. The reason why it’s called warning lights is they alert you if something in your car is malfunctioning and needs your urgent attention. To keep your car in good shape as a car owner, you must take these warning lights carefully. Don’t take the chance of compromising your life while on the road if you disregard these warning signs. Our experts at Cutter Mazda Waipahu share warning lights you shouldn’t ignore.

Check Engine Light

The check engine light will activate when there is a problem, even if it is as simple as a shaky gas cap. Ignoring this light can cause many issues, resulting in irreversible damage or expensive repair. A minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, will eventually resolve itself, and the check engine light will turn off.

If the check engine light remains illuminated, there might be emission issues, engine troubles, or even a faulty oxygen sensor. If you notice this light in your Mazda, you should take your vehicle to the experts for a repair like Cutter Mazda in Waipahu, HI.

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Your brake system should always be in excellent condition since it can save your life. If it is on, it means that your car brakes are malfunctioning and may fail to function effectively, causing your car to skid. When this occurs, it is advisable to get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

Engine Temperature Warning Light

This light is also known as a thermometer light. The thermometer light shows that the engine in your vehicle is currently overheating. If this light goes off, locate a secure or safe zone to park your car and switch off the engine. Engine overheating is a big issue, and driving with an overheated engine can cause catastrophic damage to your vehicle. So, allow your engine to cool and examine it as soon as possible.

Oil Pressure

When you have low fluid levels or oil levels are excessively hot, your car’s oil pressure warning light will turn on. Oil helps in engine lubrication, and if you fail to maintain and monitor your oil levels, it can cause serious engine problems. So, If you see this light turn on, you should take it to a service center and get it checked.

Tire Pressure Warning Light

This light indicates an imbalance in tire pressure. It might be that your tire pressure is either low or too high, and this problem is simple and affordable to solve. Refer to your car’s owner manual for more details.

Coolant Temperature Lights

If you notice that your coolant temperature lights turn on, it typically indicates that the engine temperature is high and dangerous. It is due to low coolant levels or a leak creating low levels, so you should pull over and switch off the engine when the light comes on.

Allow the engine to cool before topping off the coolant to the correct line. If this occurs frequently, get your vehicle evaluated for a leak since it is significant to maintain a standard temperature to work correctly.

Battery Warning Light

An illuminating battery warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system. So when battery system levels are low, it can imply decaying battery terminals, malfunctioning alternators, faulty connections, or a damaged drive belt, indicating that the battery needs to be changed.

When the warning light comes on, drive to a safe place, it can be your house or the nearest auto service center like Cutter Mazda of Waipahu. Don’t pull over to the side of the road since a dead battery can lead your vehicle to stall. If you turn off the car when you notice a battery warning light, it might fail to restart.

At various temperatures, vehicle batteries can deteriorate, drain, and malfunction. During maintenance inspections, it is necessary to inspect the part to ensure that it performs well and is safe. Charge or change your battery as needed.

Power Steering Warning Light

If the power steering warning light activates, your car could become not easy to steer. The problem might be anything from insufficient power steering fluid to a defective hose. Even at lower speeds, it is hard to control your course without its help. So, if you see a dashboard warning light, pull over to a safe location and get assistance.

Airbags Warning Light

The airbag warning light is a signal that many people don’t recognize. Airbags are one of the various essential components that protect you in situations like accidents. The light indicates that one or more of the bags has a problem, and it is possible that the airbags could not deploy correctly or will not activate at the appropriate time. So, always check the airbags to ensure they are in good condition while driving your car. A defective clock spring might be the source of the dashboard light.

In Conclusion

As a driver, you must know the meaning of all your vehicle warning lights to prevent accidents while driving on the road. If you strictly follow this list of warning lights, it can help you extend the life of your vehicle and save lives. So, if you see a warning light on your dashboard, we at Cutter Mazda in Waipahu, HI, welcome you to bring your car to our experts immediately. Do not hesitate to call us if you need our assistance because we are willing to help you and provide you and your Mazda with the genuine services you deserve. Contact us at 808-564-9560 and make an appointment now!

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