You’re cruising along, music playing, maybe sipping your coffee—then ding! a strange little light flickers on the dash. Ugh. What now?
Dashboard warning lights can feel intimidating, but they’re really just your car’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not quite right.” Some are minor, others are urgent, but all of them are worth understanding. So let’s break down five of the most common ones, in plain English.
That Dreaded Check Engine Light
You know the one—it looks like a tiny orange engine and shows up at the worst time. The check engine light is kind of the jack-of-all-trades when it comes to warnings. It might mean something simple like your gas cap isn’t tightened all the way. Or, it could point to a more serious problem in your engine or emissions system.
If you see this one pop up, don’t freak out—but don’t ignore it, either. It’s best to get it scanned sooner than later. A quick check could save you from a major repair down the road.
The Oil Pressure Light: Don’t Wait on This One
This one shows up as a little oil can with a droplet, and it’s not just being cute—it’s serious. When this light turns on, it usually means your engine oil pressure is low. That’s a big deal, because without proper oil circulation, your engine can quickly overheat or seize up.
If it comes on while you’re driving, pull over safely and turn off the engine. Check your oil level if you know how. Not sure what to do next? This is definitely a “phone-a-pro” moment.
Battery Light Blues
Ever seen that battery-shaped icon with a plus and minus sign? It’s not just there to say hello. That light means your car’s charging system might be failing—basically, your battery isn’t getting the juice it needs.
Here’s the trick: if the battery light comes on, try to keep driving until you get to your destination or a repair shop. Shutting off the engine could mean it won’t start again, and no one wants to be stranded in a parking lot with melting ice cream.
Brakes Are Talking—Listen Up
A circle with an exclamation point, or sometimes just the word “BRAKE,” might light up when your parking brake is on. But if you’ve already released it and the light stays on, it could be something more—like low brake fluid or worn pads.
Brakes are a safety system you don’t want to gamble with. If you’re seeing this warning, it’s worth getting checked out right away. Better safe than sorry, especially when it comes to stopping power.
Tire Pressure Light: The One That Looks Like a Horseshoe
It kind of looks like a flat tire with an exclamation point inside, and it means your tire pressure is off—probably too low. Sometimes the weather can mess with tire pressure, especially when temperatures drop.
Still, don’t brush it off. Swing by a gas station with an air pump or check your tires at home if you’ve got a gauge. Properly inflated tires help you stay safe and save on fuel.
Bottom Line?
Your car isn’t trying to be dramatic—it’s trying to help. These lights are early warning signs that give you a chance to fix a problem before it becomes a bigger one. If you're ever in doubt, give us a call or stop by.
At DeBoer’s Auto, we’re not just here to fix cars—we’re here to help you live life uninterrupted.
