Dashboard warning lights in a vehicle indicate various issues or statuses that require the driver’s attention. Here is a list of common dashboard warning lights and their descriptions:

Red Warning Lights (Immediate Attention Required)

  • Engine Temperature Warning Light: Indicates that the engine is overheating.
  • Oil Pressure Warning Light: Shows low oil pressure, which could damage the engine.
  • Battery Warning Light: Signals a problem with the vehicle’s charging system.
  • Brake Warning Light: Can indicate various issues such as low brake fluid, a problem with the brake system, or that the parking brake is engaged.
  • Airbag Warning Light: Warns of a potential issue with the airbag system.

Yellow/Orange Warning Lights (Caution Advised)

  • Check Engine Light: Indicates an issue detected by the engine’s control unit, ranging from minor to serious problems.
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light: Suggests a problem with the ABS.
  • Traction Control Light: Comes on when the traction control system is activated or if there is a fault in the system.
  • Engine Management Light: Related to the vehicle’s emissions system.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light: Warns of low tire pressure in one or more tires.

Green/Blue/White Lights (Informational)

  • Turn Signal Indicator: Flashes when the turn signals are in use.
  • Headlight Indicator: Shows when the headlights are on, often with separate indicators for high beams and low beams.
  • Cruise Control Indicator: Illuminates when the cruise control is active.
  • Fog Light Indicator: Indicates that the front or rear fog lights are on.

Common Symbol Descriptions

  • Check Engine Light (MIL): Usually looks like an engine outline.
  • Battery Light: Typically shows a battery symbol.
  • Oil Can Light: Resembles an old-fashioned oil can.
  • Thermometer Light: Often depicted with waves or a thermometer symbol.
  • Exclamation Mark Inside a Circle: Common for brake-related warnings.
  • Tire with Exclamation Mark: Represents the TPMS warning.

General Tips

  • Red Lights: Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe and address the issue.
  • Yellow/Orange Lights: Check the vehicle soon but it’s typically safe to continue driving for a short period.
  • Green/Blue Lights: For information only, indicating normal operation.
  • It is important to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific meanings and recommendations, as these can vary slightly by manufacturer and model.
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