Think of the icons on your vehicle’s dashboard as your car’s way of talking to you. Many of these lights tell you when something is wrong so you can schedule auto maintenance or repair services as soon as possible. Familiarize yourself with some of the dashboard warning lights you should never ignore to prevent further problems.

4 Vehicle Dashboard Lights to Be Aware Of

1. Brake System Alert

An exclamation point surrounded by a circle, this icon illuminates when you need professional brake service. It usually means there’s a leak in the brake line, though it can also indicate an issue with your anti-lock brakes. Since your brakes are among your vehicle’s most essential safety components, you need to identify the problem’s cause and fix it with professional auto maintenance services.

2. Oil Pressure Warning

Likened to a genie’s magic lamp in appearance, this warning light tells you there’s an issue with your oil pressure system and not enough liquid is reaching your engine. It could also mean the oil level in your car is low and needs refilling immediately. Lack of oil in your engine leads to friction, heat, and a shortened life span from premature wear.

3. Check Engine Alert

The check engine or engine management light looks similar to a yellow submarine. It could mean the spark plugs responsible for igniting the air and fuel mixture in your car’s combustion chamber need replacing. Other reasons for check engine light illumination include a loose, broken, or missing gas cap as well as a bad oxygen sensor,  catalytic converter, or mass airflow sensor.

4. Battery Alert

This warning light looks like the typical battery inserted into handheld electronics and comes on when you have a problem with your vehicle’s power source. An auto maintenance expert can tell you if the issue is because of a charging system short or a corroded or loose battery cable. It could also indicate a problem with the alternator, which produces the energy the battery stores. The battery dies when the alternator doesn’t recharge it.

If any of these lights illuminate on your dashboard, seek assistance from Chung’s Alignment & Auto Services. The family-owned auto repair shop in Honolulu, HI, offers nearly 20 years of experience, and their team of ASE®-certified technicians is ready to tackle your problem. Call (808) 744-8692 today to schedule auto maintenance with the certified NAPA® AutoCare Center, or make an appointment request online. You can also read the latest five-star reviews on Yelp.