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Understand 14 important warning lights in your car
If you’re not always sure what to do when a dashboard warning light comes on in your car or truck, you’re not alone! Learning what all those warning lights mean is key if you want to avoid getting into an accident or making the problem worse.
In this article, we’ll break down the meaning of 14 different warning lights that can indicate there’s something wrong with your vehicle.
Red warning lights are serious business!
Warning lights for serious problems are usually red. Did one of them light up? Stop your vehicle in a safe place as soon as you can. The light indicates abnormal operation of the system indicated, which could lead to an accident. Get to a garage approved by CAA-Quebec as soon as possible. A professional should inspect your vehicle - see our tips to choose the right mechanic - and make the necessary repairs or adjustments.
Charging system
If the light comes on while you’re driving, an alternator drive belt may be loose or broken, or there may be a problem with your battery or charging system.
What to do? Reduce electricity use (turn off the radio, heating, air conditioning, etc.). Stop in a safe place and get a tow. Remember: if this system fails, all electrical assistance may stop operating, all at once. As a result, the risk of accident is significant.
Engine coolant
The coolant is low, or the engine is overheating.
What to do? Stop the vehicle immediately and shut off the engine. Check the fluid level in the reserve, but wait first for the engine to cool down. The filler cap may be under pressure, and you could suffer burns. Add fluid if necessary, and get a tow if you need to. A professional should inspect the car to find the cause of the problem.
Engine oil
Engine oil pressure is insufficient. This can damage the engine.
What to do? Stop in a safe place. Shut off the engine. Once the engine has cooled down, check the oil level and add more if you have any. Otherwise, get a tow to the nearest garage to avoid damaging your engine, since there may be a major leak.
Braking system
This warning light indicates brake failure due to low pressure or low brake fluid level.
What to do? Engage and release the parking brake: it may still be engaged. If the warning light is still on, your brakes may be the cause. Stop your vehicle. Check the brake fluid level. Get a tow if you notice a leak. A professional will have to check the car immediately.
Open hood
Visibility may be reduced or non-existent if your hood opens fully while you’re moving.
What to do? Close the hood properly. Have the latch checked by a professional if necessary.
Yellow and green warning lights
These warning lights indicate major issues related to passenger safety. They also draw the driver’s attention to potentially dangerous situations.
Seatbelt
This signal reminds the driver and front-seat passenger to buckle their seatbelts if this has not been done.
What to do? Buckle your own belt, or remind your passenger of the importance of seatbelts!
Airbags
The airbag is deactivated.
What to do? If the warning light comes on with people sitting in front, consult your dealer or garage operator as soon as you can.
Supplemental restraint system (SRS)
The airbags or seatbelt pre-tensioners are malfunctioning. In case of accident, the airbags may not deploy, or the seatbelts may not tighten properly.
What to do? Check with your dealer or garage operator as soon as you can.
Operational malfunction
This warning light indicates an irregularity with the emission control system.
What to do? If the light stays on, without flashing, the problem needs to be corrected, but you have time to go and see your garage operator. If the light is flashing, your vehicle has a problem that may damage the catalytic converter. Stop your vehicle in a safe place, and have it towed to your dealer or a garage.
Tire pressure
The pressure in one of your tires is low.
What to do? Inflate your tire as soon as you can. An under-inflated tire may make your vehicle unstable to drive, causing an accident, and it will increase fuel consumption.
Power steering
Loss of power steering may make the vehicle very hard to manoeuvre. Also, in some cases, the steering wheel may lock.
What to do? Have your vehicle towed to a garage. A professional will have to inspect the car to find the cause of the problem.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
The anti-lock braking system or emergency brake-assist system is not functioning properly. However, the braking system should work normally.
What to do? Avoid emergency braking as much as possible, and check with your dealer or garage operator immediately.
Slippery-road hazard
This warning light goes on when the temperature falls below 4°C. It indicates the possible presence of ice.
What to do? Adopt cautious winter driving habits.
Loss of traction
The traction control system detects skidding.
What to do? Reduce your speed by easing off the accelerator to regain traction.
What about other warning lights?
There are lots of other warning lights that you won’t find listed above. Not all dashboards have the same warning lights. If you’re unsure, check the owner’s manual for your vehicle. You can also talk to the knowledgeable folk at CAA-Quebec’s Mobility Advisory Services.
Regular vehicle maintenance will help you avoid dangerous situations and reduce the risk of accidents on the road. That’s why it’s so important! Plus, it’s a great way to bring down your auto insurance premiums.
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