A car’s dashboard features many symbols that illuminate when there's something wrong. It could simply mean a particular system needs maintenance, or it could be a warning that you shouldn't drive the car until you've had a towing service haul it to your mechanic. Therefore, it's important to understand what the icons mean. Here’s a closer look at what the most important dashboard lights are trying to tell you.

Why Do Dashboard Lights Come On?

1. Oil Light

The oil light looks like a small, antique lamp with a drop falling from a short spout. When this lights up, it means the car’s oil pressure is low.

Have the vehicle serviced immediately to ensure oil is circulating properly. Failure to lubricate properly can result in excessive friction and overheating that lead to significant engine damage.

2. TPMS Warning

The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) alerts you with a flat tire symbol with an exclamation point when your tire pressure is too low. Pull into a service station and add air to the pressure recommended in your car owner's manual or on the tires themselves. Low pressure makes the car handle sluggishly, reduces fuel economy, and shortens the life span of the tires.

3. Battery Symbol

When the battery icon lights up, it means there's something wrong with your charging system. The alternator may be bad, or the battery itself may need to be replaced.

In either case, the battery isn't charging, and if you wait too long to address the issue, you could find yourself stranded, unable to start the car, and waiting for a towing service.

4. Engine Temperature Alert

When your engine is beginning to overheat, the thermostat symbol illuminates to tell you to check coolant levels. Pull over, turn off the engine, and give the car five or 10 minutes to cool down before opening the hood and seeing if you’re low on coolant. If the reservoir is empty, call a tow truck rather than risk overheating.

If you resume driving, turn the heater on high to draw heat from the engine compartment and prevent the coolant in the radiator from boiling over. If the light remains illuminated, take the vehicle to your mechanic.

5. Check Engine Light

The check engine light looks like a car motor in profile. When it lights up, it means something is wrong with the emissions system. This could indicate multiple problems, such as that your gas cap is loose, a sensor has failed, or you have a leak somewhere in your fuel system that’s allowing fumes to escape. In most cases, you’re OK to keep driving, but schedule an appointment with a mechanic at your earliest convenience.

If your car is acting up and you need roadside assistance, contact Discount Towing & Recovery in Mountain Home, AR. They offer service throughout Baxter County and within a 60-mile radius of their shop. In addition to towing, they specialize in tire changes, jump-starts, and lockout service. They also sell used cars and used auto parts. Learn more about the team on their website or call (870) 425-1775 to request a  tow truck.