The symbols on the car dashboard are an indispensable tool to know the status of the vehicle and anticipate any breakdown or mechanical problem. Each light or warning light has a specific meaning that can warn of anything from a simple activation of lights to serious faults in the engine or brake system. Knowing their meaning is essential for driving safely. security, and avoid expensive repairs.
In this article, we explain in detail all the symbols that can appear on the board of your car, grouped by color according to their level of importanceWe will also give you information on the steps to follow when any of them turn on so that you can act immediately.
Types of dashboard witnesses according to their color
The car's warning lights are designed with different colors to indicate the level of urgency of the alert. These colors serve as a quick guide for the driver:
- Red: Indicates a serious warning. If a red symbol appears, you must stop immediately.
- Yellow or amber: These are cautionary notices. They do not require immediate action, but should be reviewed promptly.
- Green or blue: These are informational witnesses that indicate that a system is activated, such as lights or cruise control.
Red warning lights (Urgent)
If a red light comes on on your car's dashboard, it means there is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. inmediatamente.
1. Brake warning light
This symbol may indicate that the handbrake is on or the brake fluid level is low. If the light remains on after releasing the handbrake, it is recommended that you check the brake fluid level or go to a mechanic.
2. Oil pressure warning light
If this light comes on, it means that the oil pressure is too low, which can lead to serious engine wear. The car must be stopped inmediatamente and check the oil level.
3. Engine temperature
Indicates that the engine is overheated, when it has exceeded the normal temperature number
This symbol, which is usually a thermometer on waves, indicates that the engine temperature is too high. This may be due to a cooling system failure, such as a lack of coolant or a faulty radiator. Stop and check the coolant level. Driving with an overheated engine can cause irreversible damage.
4. Battery light
This symbol has shape of a battery and lights up when there is a problem with the car's charging system. It may be due to a battery discharged, a defective alternator or bad connection cables.
For more information on how to avoid related problems, we recommend that you consult how prevent your car from being stolen.
Yellow or amber warning lights (Caution)
These witnesses alert about problems that should be reviewed soon to avoid major damage.
1. Engine warning light (Check Engine)
This symbol, represented by the silhouette of an engine, indicates a problem in the emission control system or the engine in general. It could be caused by a faulty sensor, a bad spark plug, or a more serious problem. For more information on other symbols, you can refer to the meaning of symbols on a sketch.
2. ABS witness
If this light remains on, it indicates that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) is not working properly. Although the brakes will continue to function, the ABS will not intervene in an emergency.
3. Tire pressure
This light indicates that One or more tires have improper pressureIt is recommended to check and adjust the tire pressure as soon as possible.
Maintaining the proper pressure is crucial, and if you need more information on protection, you can read about the protection amulets.
Informative witnesses in green or blue
These witnesses only inform about the condition of the car and do not require any immediate action.
1. High beam
Indicates that high beams are activated. It is recommended to use them only on poorly lit roads.
2. Cruise control
This warning light comes on when the speed control It is activated.
3. Turn signal witness
It lights up when the turn signal is used to signal a turn.
4. Traction control light
This symbol, which usually represents a car with wavy lines underneath, indicates that the traction control system is activated. It may mean that the car has lost grip on the road.
5. ABS light
If the symbol with the letters "ABS" lights up, it indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), which can affect the car's ability to brake safely.
6. Power steering system light
This symbol, which may have a picture of a steering wheel or the abbreviation “EPS” (Electric Power Steering), indicates a fault with the power steering, which could make the vehicle difficult to steer.
Understanding the warning lights on your car's dashboard is key to ensuring safe driving. Knowing how to identify each symbol and act accordingly can prevent accidents. costly breakdowns y risks on the road. Whenever a red warning light comes on, it is advisable to stop immediately and seek assistance. For yellow warning lights, it is essential to carry out a check as soon as possible. Green and blue lights only indicate active functions and do not represent a danger. Taking these signs into account contributes to a better driving experience and to the safety of the driver. optimal maintenance vehicle.
