BETHESDA, Md., June 30, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/
-- You may have noticed the illuminated symbols on your
dashboard when you start your car. While these lights usually go
off right away and are soon forgotten, motorists should be car care
aware and learn the meaning of their vehicles' dashboard lights,
says the non-profit Car Care Council.
"Warning lights on the dashboard are simply that, warnings. If
one of the lights stays on after you start your car, you could
potentially have a problem and should have your vehicle inspected
for needed repairs," said Rich
White, executive director, Car Care Council. "By checking
your owner's manual and learning the meaning of each specific
dashboard warning light, you'll be better prepared to take action
if one illuminates."
While dashboard lights may vary by vehicle, the following are
examples of common warning lights.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light usually
indicates that a vehicle system, such as the ignition, fuel
injection or emission control, is not operating properly, even if
the vehicle appears to be running normally. A glowing check engine
light doesn't mean you have to immediately pull the car to the side
of the road, but it should be inspected as soon as possible. A
flashing check engine light requires immediate attention.
Brake System
An illuminated brake system light could
mean the parking brake is on, the brake fluid is low, or there is
an issue with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Check to make
sure the parking brake is off and have a professional technician
check the brake fluid level and diagnose if there is an ABS
issue.
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
The TPMS light
indicates that a tire has low air pressure or there could be an
issue with the sensor. Tire pressure should be checked immediately.
Some vehicles will allow manual reset of the TPMS warning light
while others may require you to bring the vehicle to a professional
service technician to reset it.
Oil Pressure Warning
When the oil pressure warning
light stays lit, it indicates loss of oil pressure. Have the
oil level and pressure checked immediately.
Battery/Charging Alert
The battery/charging alert
indicates that battery voltage level is below normal and the
charging system is not functioning properly.
Check battery terminals, alternator belt
and battery condition.
The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be
Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits
of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a
free copy of the council's popular Car Care Guide or for more
information, visit www.carcare.org.
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SOURCE Car Care Council