What Does the Light On My Dashboard Mean?

If you are a new car driver in St Louis, you may be wondering “what does the light on my dashboard mean?” Well, each light that pops up is a signal of a different issue presenting itself in your car. It’s important that you are aware of each and address them when they come up so that you can keep your car in good condition. 

The check engine light, battery charge, and oil warning lights are significant and the most common, but there are a few others that you should be able to recognize. Keep reading to learn about the meaning of each dashboard light and how to properly maintain your vehicle with Suntrup Hyundai South.

Meanings: Dashboard Warning Lights

Here are a few descriptions of some of the warning lights that are less common, but are just as important as the three big ones: 

Engine Warning Lights:

• Coolant Temp Warning – This warning light will come on in the case that your coolant levels aren’t correct, and it’s very likely that your fan isn’t working correctly or your coolant may be leaking. 
• Service Vehicle – This light turns on if your vehicle is having an electrical issue. 
• Reduced Power Warning – This signal is incredibly important and warns you that you need to get your engine serviced ASAP because a part of your engine may be malfunctioning. 
• Cruise Control – The cruise control light will become illuminated when the system is operating.

Brake System Warning Lights:

• Brake System – This system warns you that there is an issue with your brakes. It may be that your brake fluid is low or that you have an ABS problem.
• Traction Control or ESP – The electronic stability system may be in use if this light comes on and is being used for traction control.

Safety & Informative Warning Lights:

• Security Alert – A security light will come on if a door is left open or your ignition is locked. This may be a sign of a tech malfunction or warn you of an open door. 
• Fog Lamp – A signal that your brights are on. 
• Airbag Fault – Used to indicate that there is a problem with the airbag system, if this sign comes on you will need to take your vehicle in for service. 
• Washer Fluid Reminder – All you will need in this case is to replace your washer fluid.

Tires Warning Lights: 

• Tire Pressure Warning Light– TPMS or the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is a system that detects if the tire pressure in any of your tires is too low. In this case, you can add air or have the PSI adjusted to the adequate levels to prevent issues. 

Do You Have More Questions About Dashboard Warning Lights? Ask Us at Suntrup Hyundai South!

If you see a light coming up on the dashboard and you aren’t sure what it’s for, then you can bring your vehicle to Suntrup Hyundai South where our service technicians can help you learn about your vehicle’s functions. Our technicians are happy to help you drive around St Charles and Jefferson County as safely as possible. You can contact us today with any issues or questions in regards to your dashboard warning lights. We’ll tell you what the problem is and help you fix it as soon as possible.