And When to Take Action
When you’re driving and a warning light suddenly pops up on your dashboard, your first thought might be: “Uh-oh, what now?” But not all warning lights mean immediate danger. Some just need a quick fix, while others signal it’s time for a professional check-up.
Here’s a simple guide to the most common dashboard warning lights—what they mean and what you should do when they appear.
Quick Fixes
Door Ajar
Icon: Overhead view of a car with red doors open
What it means: One or more doors aren’t fully shut.
What to do: Close and securely latch all doors. The light will turn off once they’re properly shut.
Seatbelt Reminder
Icon: A red figure with a seatbelt across it
What it means: A passenger may not be buckled in.
What to do: Make sure everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seatbelt.
Traction Control
Icon: A car with wavy skid marks behind it
What it means: Your traction control system is active to prevent skidding.
What to do: Slow down and maintain control—don’t slam the brakes, especially in slippery conditions.
Low Fuel
Icon: A yellow gas pump
What it means: You’re running low on fuel.
What to do: Refuel as soon as possible before the tank hits empty.
Simple Service Needed
Oil Pressure Light
Icon: A red oil can or “genie lamp”
What it means: Your engine’s oil pressure is low.
What to do: Schedule an oil change and check oil levels immediately.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Icon: Yellow exclamation point inside a horseshoe-shaped symbol
What it means: One or more tires may be underinflated.
What to do: Check tire pressure and inflate as needed. If the light stays on, there could be a leak or puncture—time to visit the shop.
Washer Fluid Low
Icon: Windshield with fluid spray
What it means: Windshield washer fluid is low.
What to do: Refill the washer fluid reservoir.
Coolant Warning
Icon: Thermometer floating in liquid (can be blue, yellow, or red)
What it means:
- Blue or dark icon: Coolant levels are low.
- Yellow icon: Coolant is overheating or needs replacement.
What to do: Top off the coolant or schedule a coolant system inspection.
Mechanic Service Recommended
Airbag Indicator
Icon: A person with a ball in front of them (airbag deploying)
What it means: A possible issue with the airbag system.
What to do: Do not ignore. Schedule an SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) inspection immediately.
Battery
Icon: A red battery with a plus and minus sign
What it means: Potential issues with your battery or charging system.
What to do: Have the battery and alternator inspected. Keep a jumper kit in your vehicle just in case.
Brake System Warning
Icon: Red circle with an exclamation point or the word “BRAKE”
What it means: A problem with the braking system or the parking brake is engaged.
What to do: If parking, engage the emergency brake. Otherwise, schedule a full brake system inspection.
ABS Warning (Antilock Braking System)
Icon: Yellow circle with the letters “ABS”
What it means: There may be an issue with the antilock brake system.
What to do: Schedule a brake inspection as soon as possible.
Transmission Temperature Warning
Icon: Gear symbol with an exclamation point
What it means: The transmission is overheating.
What to do: If you’re towing a load, reduce the strain. If not, have the transmission inspected for fluid levels, leaks, or mechanical issues.
What it means: Your engine’s computer has detected a malfunction.
What to do: Visit your mechanic for a diagnostic scan and engine inspection. Don’t ignore it, continuing to drive with this warning light on can lead to more costly repairs. Bring your car in for a full diagnostic scan and inspection to pinpoint the issue. At C.A.R. Experts, we offer fast, honest engine diagnostics using advanced scan tools to help you get back on the road with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Dashboard warning lights are your car’s way of communicating that something needs your attention—big or small. Ignoring them could lead to more serious problems or put your safety at risk.
If you ever see a light you’re unsure about, play it safe and bring your vehicle to a trusted mechanic. At CAR Experts, we’re here to help keep you informed, safe, and on the road with confidence.
