The 9 Indicator Lights You Can Find in Any Vehicle Panel Board
May 8, 2015
Indicator lights serve to ensure a driver’s safety while on the road, providing warnings and alerts for conditions which might affect the car’s operation. It’s an important component of every vehicle, as equally essential as its exhaust system, its radiator, and its other metal parts. Below are just nine indicator lights you’ll find in the dashboard of your ride.
Turn Signals
This indicator light signals light blinks and a ticking sound when switched on, and it’s used to let other motorists know that you’re going to turn left or right. One of the top pet peeves of any driver is having the car in front of them turn left or right without prior notice. So better use your turn signal lights while on the road; that way, vehicles around you would be forewarned of your intentions.
Engine Trouble Warning Indicator
Beware when this symbol lights up because it means there’s a problem with your car’s engine. When this indicator starts glowing, immediately park your vehicle and restart it. If the light is still flashing, slow down and contact your mechanic as soon as possible.
Open Door Warning
The open door warning lights lets you know if any or all the doors of your car is open or not properly closed. When this indicator activates in your dashboard, simply check all the doors or your ride; it’ll switch off once every door is closed. But if it’s still on despite having everything properly shut, bring the vehicle to your mechanic.
Low Oil Pressure Warning
Best be careful when you see this indicator activated after starting your car because it only means that your engine’s oil pressure is low. When it flashes on while driving, immediately park your vehicle and call for assistance. Continuing driving can only cause serious engine damage to your car.
Battery Warning
One of the most serious indicator lights to flicker on is the battery warning. It shows that there is a problem with the battery charging system. You only have a few minutes before your car shuts down. Turn off your air conditioner and radio and other electrical devices. Stop at a safe location and call the towing company to have your car towed to the nearest trustworthy repair shop.
Seat Belt Warning
Seatbelt can be the borderline between life and death when it comes to vehicular accidents. Luckily for you, your car has a seat belt warning that’ll remind you to wear it every time you take it out for a spin. So if this light is on, check if everyone in the car has their seatbelt fastened (and make sure your own seatbelt is fastened).
Low Fuel Level Warning
This is one of the indicator lights that can be easily avoided. The low fuel level warning only flashes when the gas inside the tank is low and that your vehicle may be consuming the reserve fuel. Look for the nearest gas station and refuel immediately and this light will switch off on its own.
High Beam Warning
When this indicator is on, it means that you currently have your headlights on in high beam. Use only when needed (such as during foggy weathers) as leaving your high beam on can blind other drivers on the road.
Parking Brake Engaged Warning
The moment the parking braked indicator turns on, it could only mean two things: you forgot to release your car’s parking brake or you released it and the light is still on. Check your brakes and your brake fluid. If something is amiss, bring your car to your mechanic to have the problem resolved.
Pay attention to these indicator lights as much as you can while driving. That way, you can get to and fro your destination smoothly and without incident.