Don’t Ignore Those Dashboard Lights

Have you ever been driving along and notice that one of those confusing dashboard lights comes on out of nowhere? If so, rest assured you are not alone. We all find these alarming lights to be not only confusing, but bothersome as well. Our first reaction is that of utter fear and concern not knowing what the light is all about or what it’s going to cost to repair it.

Here at Auto Clinic of Franklin we want to take this opportunity to help each one of our valued clients recognize and understand what those dashboard lights really mean. Not all of the warning lights indicate upcoming costly repairs. Some are simple and not costly at all. With that said, we want to be sure you know just what your vehicle is trying to tell you.

What Do All Those Dashboard Lights Really Mean?

• Battery Warning Light – The battery warning light is telling you that the battery voltage is below normal and that the charging system is not operating properly. When you see this light, you should check the battery terminals, the overall condition of the battery and even check your alternator belt. If, on your own inspection, you discover that the battery terminals are fine and that your battery is in good operating condition, then it may very well be that your alternator belt is the source of the warning light.
• Bulb Failure Warning Light – This warning light is telling you that one or more of the lights on your vehicle such as your headlights, brake lights, riding lights or even a fuse, is not working properly. To solve this problem, you just need to inspect the lights on your vehicle and locate the one that is not working. Replacing the light should be fairly easy, but if you are unable to perform the task, then hurry on down to our trusted facility and one of our techs will take care of your need.
• Brake Warning Light – When this light comes on you are being warned that there is an issue with your braking system. The problem could be anything from a low brake fluid level, low brake linings or even a parking brake that was left in the on position. Check the parking or safety brake first to ensure it is not on. If that is not the source of the problem, then it will be necessary to have your system checked for any leaks as well as an ABS inspection. Again, our team stands ready to provide all your automotive needs.
• Required Maintenance Light – This indicator light is telling you that some type of maintenance is required on your vehicle. The type of maintenance will be dependent upon the vehicle’s mileage. You should first check your owner’s manual for the service requirement at the current mileage. If you are unable to determine the maintenance needed be sure to reach out to the trusted team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin.
• Windshield Wiper Fluid Light– When this light comes on it is simply telling you that the level of your washer fluid is low. Simply add washer fluid and the problem is solved. If, however, this washer fluid light continuously comes on, you want to have the vehicle checked by one of our certified techs.
• Check Engine Light – This indicator light is the one that makes us all panic. It is usually telling you that one of the systems in your vehicle such as the fuel, ignition or emissions control is not operating properly. When this indicator light stays on steadily, it is best to have your car checked by one of our skilled technicians. If the light is flashing instead of remaining on consistently, then do not delay in getting the vehicle checked immediately. That is where the team here at Auto Clinic of Franklin comes in.
• Tire Pressure Light – When this light pops on one or more of your tires has low tire pressure. You should check the tire pressure on all your tires immediately so as to avoid a flat. Low tire pressure contributes greatly to low gas mileage as well.
• Temperature Warning Light – This light is warning you that your engine may be overheating. You should stop your vehicle immediately should this light come on and check your coolant level. If the coolant level is ok, you should then have your car inspected for a problem with the engine cooling system, leaks or even a fan operation issue.

There You Have It

We hope you find this information helpful and that you now have a better understanding of what those dashboard lights really mean. If you find yourself faced with a warning light or are in need of any other automotive services, be sure to reach out to the trusted team of experts here at Auto Clinic of Franklin. We look forward to serving you and with the New Year upon us want to send along wishes from our family to yours for a healthy and prosperous 2023 New Year ahead!