You are driving down the road and all of a sudden see a dreaded light pop up on your car’s dashboard. While it might look like a hieroglyphic from another language, it is important not to ignore the warning signs on your vehicle.
The first thing you should do when a warning light turns on is bring your car to a reliable and trusted auto repair shop. At Welsh Automotive, we are a family-owned business that is here to provide you and your vehicle the care it needs to keep you safe and on the road.
Understanding the various warning signs can help you determine how serious an issue is, and keep your car running safely until you get to the auto repair shop.
Why Do Warning Lights Matter?
Ignoring a warning light for too long can cause severe damage to your car — making it unsafe to drive and resulting in expensive repairs. Gaining a basic understanding of dashboard signals allows you to catch minor issues before they escalate by identifying what your vehicle is trying to tell you.
Here are some of the warning signs to keep an eye on and what they mean.
Check Engine Light
Perhaps the most common and recognizable light is the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light. This can signal a wide range of issues, from minor glitches like a loose gas cap to severe problems like a faulty engine or computer issues.
If your check engine light comes on, it is important to bring your car in right away to a trusted automotive service center or auto repair shop. Our team at Welsh Automotive can run a diagnostic test and complete car inspection to determine what the issue is. From there, we will present you with your options for repair and give you a quote about how to fix the issue.
Oil Pressure Warning
When the oil pressure light in your car turns on, it is an indication that the oil pressure is below the recommended level. This usually happens when there is an insufficient amount of oil or when the oil pump is not functioning properly.
When this happens, we highly recommend turning off your engine immediately and addressing the issue quickly. You can avoid this happening with consistent oil changes and regular maintenance to your oil filter.
Battery Alert
If you notice a battery-shaped light turn on, it is signaling there is a problem related to your car’s battery or charging system. This may be because of a faulty alternator, damaged battery, or bad electrical connections.
You should not ignore this warning as it can result in your vehicle stopping suddenly, leading to potential safety hazards and costly repairs. Come by our auto shops in West Chester or Exton and let us diagnose and fix your car’s battery issues.
Brake Warning Light
When you see a warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard, it could indicate several problems related to your braking system. Your brakes are a critical safety function in your car, and any warning signs that relate to your brakes need immediate attention.
One of the possible reasons for the light to come on is if your emergency brake is engaged. Another reason could be if there is a drop in brake fluid level, which could indicate a leak in the system. In a worst-case scenario, the light may also turn on if there is a malfunction in the braking system itself.
One of our professional mechanics can diagnose the problem and fix it before it becomes a bigger issue and puts your safety at risk. Do not wait to get your brakes checked!
Temperature Warning
If the thermometer symbol lights up on your car dashboard, it may indicate that your vehicle is overheating. Overheating can be caused by several factors, like a faulty thermostat, inadequate coolant, or a problem with your radiator.
If you ignore this warning sign, it can lead to severe engine damage that can be expensive to fix. Therefore, it is crucial to address this issue immediately by pulling over to a safe location, turning off the engine, and allowing it to cool down before checking the coolant level.
If the coolant level is low, you may top it up with the recommended type and amount specified in your car manual. Not sure how to check your fluid levels? Bring your car to Welsh Automotive and we will do a complete check to ensure all your fluids are at the appropriate level.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The TPMS alerts you to low tire pressure, which can reduce fuel efficiency, compromise your vehicle’s handling, and lead to a flat tire or blowouts. When the weather changes, it is not uncommon for this warning light to appear as the pressure in your tires is impacted by extreme temperatures.
If this warning light comes on, add air to your tires according to the recommended PSI, which can usually be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or inside the driver’s side door.
Welsh Automotive | Auto Repair | Chester County
It is important to understand your car’s warning lights so you can catch any potential issues early and prevent them from becoming serious problems. Do not ever ignore a warning light – if you are unsure, it is always best to seek advice from a professional auto repair shop like Welsh Automotive. As a family business, customer satisfaction is our top priority.
Our skilled team at Welsh Automotive is ready to assist you with warning lights, or any other service needs. We offer quality service and fair prices for all your auto repair needs.
Feel free to contact us for a hassle-free and efficient auto repair experience.
