Warning Lights are a sign something is wrong with one of the vehicles systems. The light for the defective system will illuminate when the system computer determines that a problem exist. The information is stored in the form of 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 the diagnosing of the problem.

Warning Lights

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maintenance Required light or it my appear as a wrench. This light warns you that you are due for scheduled maintenance. It comes on based on mileage intervals set by the manufacturer. Check the current mileage on the odometer and look at the owners manual for the service required.

The check engine, service engine soon light or a symbol that looks like an engine. The lights will be amber in color. This light can illuminate for many different reasons. The light pertains to the engine and fuel system emissions. If these systems are not in good working order the light will illuminate and you need to have the vehicle checked. Should the light flash the vehicle needs to be parked at a repair facility or home.

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is designed to reduce the chance of skidding. The ABS computer reads individual wheel speeds and makes adjustments, by adjusting the braking force to the wheel that is out of range. The ABS 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 can be made by the operator. 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 ABS will appear at the same time. If this happens take the vehicle to a shop.

The Traction Control System (TCS) works in conjunction with the ABS brake system and other systems depending on the make of vehicle. The TCS light will illuminate if 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 as the shape of oil container. If this light comes on safely park the vehicle as soon as possible (ASAP) . In most cases the engine is nearly out of oil and severe engine damage will occur. If the vehicle has a gauge and the indicator drops very low or near 0, this is another indication 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 it means the battery is not being charged and you have a very limited time before the battery voltage is to 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 explanation mark in the center of it. The light 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.