Renault Trafic Warning Lights Meaning? Top Answer Update

There are warning lights on the instrument panel of your car. They light up in case of a serious problem. There are three types of warning lights:

Oil pressure warning light

temperature warning light

battery warning light

Temperature Warning Light/Indicator: This light comes on when the engine temperature or radiator coolant temperature is too high. A gauge is used in some vehicles which would show the needle in the warning area of ​​HOT.

If this warning light comes on while driving, stop in a safe place and turn off the engine as soon as possible.

Never remove the radiator cap to check the coolant level when the engine is hot. The coolant has boiling temperature and is under pressure. When the cap is loosened, the hot coolant will be forced out and can cause severe burns if you stand too close.

Oil Pressure Warning Light: This light comes on when the engine oil is not circulating at the required pressure. Some vehicles have an oil pressure gauge that reads LOW when the engine oil pressure is low. If you see an oil pressure warning while driving, stop in a safe place immediately and turn off the engine.

Battery Warning Light: When this light comes on or the battery indicator shows LOW, it means the battery power is getting low.

The new feature aims to protect the privacy of iPhone users (Photo: Apple)

With so much of our lives connected to our cell phones, digital privacy has never been more important.

Apple’s latest software update, iOS 14, has given iPhone users a brand new privacy feature – one that shows when apps might be spying on you.

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This is all you need to know about the orange warning light on iPhones.

What does an orange light mean?

The orange light was introduced with the iOS 14 update as part of the new privacy features.

The orange light at the top of your screen is actually a recording indicator. It lights up when an app is using your mic, so when you’re recording a voice note or using Siri.

A green light is a camera indicator that shows up when an app is using your front camera, so you’ll see it light up when you’re using Face ID, FaceTime, or taking a selfie.

But these lights also mean users can keep tabs on which apps are using those features, where previously this was more hidden.

Apple said: “Privacy is a fundamental human right. At Apple, it’s also one of our core values. Your devices are important to so many areas of your life. What you share of these experiences and with whom you share them should be up to you.

“We design Apple products to protect your privacy and put you in control of your information. It’s not always easy. But that’s the kind of innovation we believe in.”

Here’s how to tell if an app is using your camera or microphone

If you see either the green or orange light in the corner of your screen, there’s an easy way to check which app is recording.

Just swipe down from the corner of your phone to open the control center.

This will show you a message indicating which app is responsible for the notification. These can be Apple apps or third party apps that you have installed.

How to check which apps have access to your camera and microphone

If you’re concerned about which apps might have access to your camera and mic, there’s an easy way to check — and revoke your camera and mic permissions, too.

Open your settings and then scroll down to “Privacy”. From there, tap on “Microphone” and you will get the list of apps that have access to your phone’s microphone. You can turn off microphone access for apps you don’t want to have access to.

Go back to your privacy settings, then select “Camera”. Similarly, you can see which apps can access your camera. Again, you can turn off access for apps you don’t want access to.

If you change your mind and decide you want an app to have access to any of these features, simply follow the steps above and turn access back on.

Have apps been caught recording people?

Some iPhone users have expressed concern on social media about certain apps triggering the orange light without the user recording anything themselves.

TikTok is an app that has been mentioned, with users saying that the orange light appears when they open the app and disappears when they close it.

One person tweeted: “Y’all TikTok is listening to us, this orange dot appears while I’m in the app and disappears when I exit TikTok, it also appears on Siri as it means it’s using the mic.” ”

Another wrote: “Um so you all know the orange dot means he’s using your mic??? I signed up for TikTok and got this??? I don’t record or use my camera…”

Others also reported similar issues with the YouTube app.

“@YouTube I’m not sure if this is a bug, but after installing the ios14 beta, the orange dot appears every time I use the YouTube iPhone app. The dot means I’m using the microphone (nice feature @Apple). I haven’t used any feature in the app that requires the mic, I’m a bit worried,” tweeted someone else.

Also, in June, early testers of the iOS 14 update noticed that the warning light appeared when using Instagram.

Imagine you are driving down the street when suddenly a light comes on on the dashboard.

For some, figuring out what the symbol means and what action to take next is easy. But many are unclear about what they are seeing.

According to a survey by Goodyear Auto Service and Just Tires, young drivers are not as familiar with dashboard icons as they are with emojis. The survey concluded that 88 percent of young adults could recognize an emoji, compared to 51 percent of young adults who could recognize a vehicle warning sign.

Often referred to as “idiot lights” (think warning signs for dummies), these symbols are meant to be easy to understand. But for many motorists, young and old, it’s not that easy.

Here are 10 dashboard icons and what they mean, according to AutoZone.

ABS light

The icon indicates that the anti-lock braking computer has set a code and needs professional diagnosis.

glow plug

This symbol applies to diesel vehicles only and means that the engines are preheating and the driver should not start the engine until the light is off.

fog lights

Fog lights illuminate when this icon is activated.

braking system

The brake system icon indicates one of three possible problems: parking brake is engaged, problem with brake system or brake fluid is low, or ABS problems.

door ajar

When the car doors are open, this symbol draws the driver’s attention to it. Leaving the door open overnight can drain the battery.

Washing liquid reminder

This symbol indicates that the washer fluid is low. Fill the washer fluid reservoir in the hood of the vehicle. A cap for refilling the reservoir should have the symbol.

tire pressure control system

Drivers should check the pressure in their tires or tampering with tire sensors when this icon is activated. Some vehicles allow the operator to reset the warning light manually, while others require service.

cruise control

This symbol indicates that the cruise control is set while driving.

Battery/charging alarm

This symbol indicates that the voltage level is below normal level and the vehicle’s charging system is not working properly. Auto Zone recommends checking the battery terminals, alternator belt and battery condition.

engine cooling system

An engine cooling system or coolant temperature warning light illuminates when the temperature exceeds normal limits. Check fan operation, radiator cap, coolant leaks and coolant level.

If lights do come on, it’s generally best to have the problem checked out. A warning light doesn’t always mean the worst – sometimes it could be a faulty wire or a bad sensor.

But there is no point in taking risks.

Your vehicle’s check engine light may come on when it’s time for preventive maintenance. You may also see a service warning light on your dashboard. More often than not, however, the check engine light comes on because something is wrong with one of the five things listed below. Stringer Auto Repair, LLC can perform a diagnostic test to see why the check engine alert is on and then fix the problem so you no longer have to worry about the alert.

1. Catalyst

Hopefully your check engine warning doesn’t come on because your catalytic converter is failing. The only reason we are saying this is that replacing the catalytic converter can be expensive and your vehicle cannot run without it. The catalytic converter is part of your vehicle’s exhaust system and if you notice a rotten egg smell along with the engine warning message, this is likely the problem.

2. Fuel cap

Hopefully your Check Engine warning came up because you didn’t tighten your gas cap the last time you filled up a car, SUV, or truck. A loose fuel cap gives an engine check warning because the cap should create a vacuum seal once you tighten it. If your cap is loose because you didn’t tighten it, cracked, or if the seal is broken, your engine check warning will appear.

3. Mass Air Flow Sensor

The mass air flow sensor in your vehicle’s engine measures the air entering the engine to ensure the correct amount is mixing with the fuel. If you are not getting the correct air/fuel mixture, your engine may stall or refuse to start. When the mass air flow sensor fails, your check engine light will come on because the on-board computer has received a signal that there is a problem with the air/fuel mixture in your engine.

4. Oxygen sensor

The same applies to the oxygen sensor. This crucial part measures how much unburned oxygen is in your car exhaust, and if there is too little or too much, other engine parts can be damaged. A faulty oxygen sensor returns an engine check warning every time. In fact, this is one of the most common reasons why a check engine light comes on while you are driving your car.

5. Spark plugs

Finally, worn spark plugs or spark plug wires will result in an engine check warning. Almost anything wrong with your vehicle’s ignition system will likely cause your check engine light to come on. If your plugs haven’t been changed and your vehicle has driven over 100,000 miles, it’s time for new plugs and possibly new wiring. Stalls are another indicator of spark plug problems.

Stringer Auto Repair, LLC, located in Johnstown, OH, offers check engine light diagnostics. Bring your vehicle to our workshop or give us a call today.

It’s happened to all of us, whether we’re in a hurry to get to work or on a family trip. Suddenly, a vehicle warning light comes on.

Depending on the light, it can immediately cause panic. Thoughts of being stranded and what to do next can fill our heads. Hopefully some help from roadside assistance can solve serious problems. On the other hand, some lights can simply be a notification that something is working, but not 100%. With winter just around the corner, now is a good time to become familiar with some of these warning lights.

Warning lights and what they mean

If you see a light on your dashboard, don’t panic. Icon lights can appear in different colors.

Red – indicates a potentially serious problem or safety issue and should be taken to your dealer as soon as possible.

Yellow/Orange – something needs service or repair soon.

Green/Blue – Indicates your system is operational. You can see this color scheme when your headlights are on.

If a light is flashing, contact your local dealer or a trusted mechanic.

1. Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light: There are a number of reasons the light may illuminate. Some of them are:

Your oxygen (O2) sensor needs to be replaced;

Your gas cap is loose, damaged or lost;

Your catalytic converter needs to be replaced;

Your mass air flow sensor needs to be replaced; or

Your spark plugs or wires need to be replaced.

These elements all affect how efficiently your car drives. The light does not mean your engine will explode or is low on oil.

2. Coolant Temperature Warning: This warning light indicates that your engine is overheating due to a lack of coolant. If this light comes on, stop immediately and turn off your car. An overheated engine can cause significant damage. Before checking the coolant level, allow your car to cool for 30-60 minutes before removing the radiator cap to avoid burns from vapor build-up in the radiator. While you’re waiting for the engine to cool down, look under your car to see if there are any leaks. Your car may be fine but the coolant is low based on the intervals at which the coolant was last refilled.

3. Oil Pressure Warning: This light indicates a loss of oil pressure. Stop and turn off your car immediately and safely. Low oil pressure can cause serious engine problems. The easiest way is to pull out the dipstick and wipe it off with a paper towel or cloth. Then reinsert and remove the dipstick to check the oil level. If your oil level is low, you may have exceeded the recommended oil change interval or have a leak. Do not drive until you have added more oil.

4. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This light indicates that the tire pressure is too low. It may be low due to temperature change or tire damage. It is important to maintain proper tire pressure. Driving with under- or over-inflated tires can be dangerous. If your car runs poorly, stop immediately. Driving with a flat tire can damage your rim and result in higher costs.

5. Low Battery/Charge Warning: This light indicates that your battery’s voltage level may be below normal levels. This could be the result of an old battery or other deteriorating parts such as the starter motor, corroded battery terminals, or an alternator.

6. Traction Control or ESP: This light comes on when your vehicle encounters slippery or treacherous conditions. Systems used can be your traction control, anti-lock brakes or electronic stability control. If you notice this light on, please slow down and ride according to the conditions Mother Nature throws at you.

7. Braking System: This light indicates that your parking brake may be engaged or that there is a problem with your braking system, e.g. B. too little brake fluid or problems with your ABS. One of the most important features of your car are your brakes. Be sure to have this checked immediately.

For more information on your car’s warning lights, refer to your owner’s manual.

If you don’t have roadside assistance, now might be a good time to get it done. As part of West Bend’s Home and Highway® policy, TravelNet® can provide towing, flat tire, gas delivery, battery jump start, lockout and other minor repair assistance at the location of the disability.

Do you have any tips or information you would like to share? I would like to hear them; Please share them in the box below.

Source:

https://www.autozone.com/landing/page.jsp?name=vehicle-warning-indicators#batterye:

If the sight of an indicator or warning light on your Mazda vehicle’s dashboard worries you, don’t panic. The purpose of these warning lights is to let you know about your vehicle’s many systems and how they work. Here’s a quick guide to each of the warning lights and what they indicate.

This is the Check Engine Light and one of the most important gauges in your dashboard array. If this illuminates, it may indicate a possible emission control malfunction. Contact us to have this checked immediately.

The master warning light is used to alert you to a potential problem with one or more of your vehicle’s advanced systems. It is accompanied by a message in your vehicle’s vehicle information display with a more detailed system message.

The charge warning light indicates a potential problem with your car’s charging system or a drain on the battery. Have this checked immediately.

If the ABS warning light comes on and stays on, it may indicate a problem with your car’s anti-lock braking system. The brakes should still work but without anti-lock assist. Check this out now.

The engine oil pressure light warns of low engine oil pressure. If you see this light, turn off the engine immediately and call us. As a side note, be sure to keep an eye on the engine oil level gauge to ensure your engine has enough oil.

If the brake warning light comes on and stays on, it may indicate that your parking brake is still on. It could also mean that your brake fluid level is low and needs topping up. This should be addressed immediately.

Most newer Mazda vehicles are equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system. When illuminated, this indicator warns of low pressure in one or more of your vehicle’s tires. Additional information may appear in your vehicle information display, such as: B. “Low tire pressure – add air” or “flat tire – consult dealer”.

This is the power steering warning light. If this warning light comes on and stays on, if I were you I would take your Mazda vehicle to our service center to have it checked as I would like to be able to control the direction my car is going.

When the seat belt warning light illuminates, it indicates that the driver’s or passenger’s seat belt is unbuckled. It is accompanied by a chime reminding everyone to buckle up.

If the auxiliary airbag warning light comes on or flashes intermittently, take your vehicle to our service center for repair. This may indicate that either the airbags or the seat belt pretensioners are not working properly.

If the ABS light comes on and stays on, it may indicate a problem with the system. In this case, bring your vehicle to the service.

We’ve all done that before. Admit it. You leave the gas station without putting the cap back on. Luckily, when this happens, your Mazda will let you know by flashing that little check cap light without any judgement. The light may also stay on if the gas cap is loose or missing. Put it on, screw the cap back on and we’ll never talk about it again.

Finally, when you see this “Perform Service” light, it means that your Mazda is politely telling you that it is time to perform service. I would listen to your Mazda as it knows what it is talking about. The closest way it tells you it’s service time might be roadside with a smoking engine.

There may be other lights on your dashboard related to your Mazda’s functions and features, but understanding the lights we’ve just reviewed means a safer driving experience. We want you to feel as safe as possible in your Mazda vehicle. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s warning lights, come to our service center to have one of our service experts check and explain how these systems work.

Posted in Charlotte New Mazda, Mazda SUVs, Mazda3, Mazda6, Technology | Comments Off on What are Mazda warning lights and what do they mean?

Everything is going well with your car when suddenly a warning light comes on on the dashboard. There are literally dozens of warning and check engine lights on today’s modern car, each with their own meaning and source. While they will always vary by automaker, five dashboard warning lights are generic across the board.

Warning lights can be divided into 3 general colors. Most of these five warning lights are red, but it’s important to know how much attention a light requires based on color and solid or flashing status.

Red. Lights up a bright red color to indicate a potentially serious problem that requires immediate service by a mechanic. Red could also be a scheduled maintenance reminder that kicks in after a certain mileage has been reached, or informing the driver that certain systems are activated, like the parking brake or airbag. yellow orange. A yellow or orange light, like the check engine light, usually signals a part that needs service or replacement outside of regular maintenance. A blinking amber light means that this component needs immediate attention. Green Blue. Milder green or blue dashboard lights usually alert the driver to an active system, such as headlights or air conditioning.

These 5 dashboard warning lights should be considered very serious when they illuminate.

1. Engine temperature warning light

This warning light is intended to warn the driver that the engine temperature has risen above the recommended level. While it can often indicate that the vehicle is overheating, this is not always the case. Sometimes this warning light comes on when the engine temperature sensor is damaged or not sending accurate data to the ECU. In other cases, it means the coolant temperature is too high or the engine is overheating.

What to do when it happens: Because an overheated engine can cause serious damage — from a blown head gasket to damage to internal engine components — you should immediately drive to a safe place, shut off the engine, and contact a towing service to have your vehicle repaired to pick up and bring back home. This allows a mobile mechanic to inspect the vehicle to diagnose the cause of the light and recommend the proper repairs.

2. Oil pressure warning light

To keep moving metal parts properly lubricated, your engine has a complex oiling system. It depends on maintaining a recommended oil pressure to accomplish this important task. If engine sludge is present, the oil is dirty or contaminated, or if an oil pump or filter is damaged, oil pressure problems can result. When the oil pressure falls below the threshold, the light is triggered.

What to do if it happens: Any time this warning light comes on, it should be taken very seriously. For example, if the engine temperature warning light comes on, you should stop in a safe place and park the car as soon as possible. Call a tow truck and have the vehicle towed to your home for another mechanical inspection by a professional.

3. Battery charge warning light

This is not as serious as overheating or low oil pressure, but should be addressed as soon as possible. The low battery warning light indicates your car battery is running low when cranking amps or volts. Amps are required to start the car, while volts power headlights, radios, and other accessories when the car won’t start. Here is the “Yes, but” section: This warning light can also indicate a fault in the charging system, e.g. B. a dead alternator or damaged charging cables.

What to do if it happens If this light comes on, you should drive home without turning off your vehicle. If the battery is low, chances are your car won’t start until the problem is fixed. When you are at home, contact a professional mechanic to perform an inspection of the warning lights which will allow them to isolate the root problem.

4. Brake warning light

According to most professional mechanics, this is one of those warning lights that is 100% avoidable. In most situations, illumination of the brake warning light means that the parking brake has been left on. First try to check if the parking brake is in good condition to see if it goes away. If it doesn’t, you may be running out of brake fluid or there is a mechanical problem with the brakes. While recommended replacement of brake pads, rotors, and calipers can significantly reduce this problem, when it does illuminate on the dash, it should be taken seriously.

What to do if it happens: If the brake light comes on, check your parking brake first – 80% of the time this will fix the problem. If it isn’t, contact a professional mechanic and have them check the brake warning lights before proceeding.

5. Check engine light

The check engine light has the most possible sources. This glows amber/orange when the vehicle’s ECU detects a mechanical or electrical fault, which is detected by one of the sensors that monitor your engine, transmission and safety systems. It could be as simple as a faulty sensor or a serious problem with internal engine components.

What to do if it happens: Any time the check engine light comes on, you should take it seriously. Contact a professional mechanic and have them perform a check of the engine light so they can determine why this light is on and what repairs are needed to fix it. If possible, you should not drive the vehicle until this issue is resolved.

You’re driving when suddenly the ghastly yellow-orange Check Engine Light comes on!

What to do? Click here to learn more about GOFAR

Continue or stop?

It can be confusing. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Check if the engine light is flashing.

The check engine light is usually a yellow or red engine-shaped icon located in the center of your vehicle’s dashboard behind the drive wheel. If it flashes for more than 6 seconds, it may be an emergency situation.

Step 2: Stop Driving. Pass safely.

Slow down, pull to the curb and stop. This gives you time to check the problem. Otherwise you risk damaging your car.

Step 3: Diagnose the problem with a diagnostic app

If the check engine light is on and steady (not flashing), you can continue driving as long as the car isn’t performing strangely. How is the handling? Drive straight or shaky? Do you hear any strange noises from the engine compartment? Can you see steam or smoke coming from the car? Use your hands, eyes, ears and nose to assess if anything unusual is happening to your car.

Step 4: Fix the problem. Decide whether you want to install an OBD2 diagnostic tool or visit a mechanic.

An OBD2 scanner is able to diagnose the car warning light problem and alert you to future problems. A diagnostic tool like GOFAR (view full feature list) can be used by anyone, not just a mechanic. GOFAR comes preloaded with over 20,000 trouble codes and tells you in non-technical terms what the problem is with your vehicle.

Get GOFAR now! – It’s like having a mechanic in your pocket.

Why is your check engine light flashing?

Let’s delve a little deeper into why your dashboard warning lights are on…

Every car has a selection of car warning lights on the dashboard and they all have a different meaning. The check engine light is easy to spot. It looks like an engine and usually contains words like “check”. Usually yellow or red.

Its main function is to inform you, the driver, that one of the vehicle’s sensors is not working properly. The check engine light is either in a solid non-flashing state or is flashing.

Whenever you start your car, you’ll notice that the check engine light comes on momentarily – typically for about six seconds.

Each fault light has a corresponding fault code. These are diagnosed and explained by an OBD2 scanner.

The cost of an OBD2 scanner ranges from a few dollars to hundreds. You can buy a quality scanner online.

Don’t trust your mechanic? Get help here

What could be causing your check engine light to come on?

The Check Engine Light, also known as a Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL), is a warning light (sometimes referred to as a telltale light) that indicates a malfunction in your vehicle (as detected by your car’s computerized engine management system).

When something goes wrong in this complex collection of components and sensors, it triggers this light.

It is usually displayed on your dashboard as a pictogram or icon of an engine, or sometimes simply CHECK ENGINE or CHECK ENGINE SOON.

Did you know? – When you start the car, the check engine light always comes on. However, if no problems are detected, it should turn off within 6 seconds.

If the check engine light stays on… not. Panic.

Check if your car behaves differently. Does it jerk, jerk, or make unusual noises?

If you don’t notice anything out of the ordinary, you can continue to drive to the nearest car dealership or repair center.

The warning light usually has 2 levels:

Steady (indicates a minor error); and blinking (indicating a fatal error).

When the light is on, the engine control module is actually storing a trouble code related to the malfunction that can be read and interpreted by an on-board diagnostic or OBD2 scan tool.

All cars built in the US after 1996, Australia after 2006 (petrol) and 2007 (diesel), Canada after 1998, and UK and Europe after 2001 (petrol) and 2004 (diesel) are OBD2 compliant.

Your mechanic will then read the generated fault codes on your car’s computer with a scan tool and recommend the necessary repairs or parts needed to fix the problem(s)… and of course bill you for the cost.

The thing is, this warning light can indicate almost anything from a loose gas cap to a (much more serious) engine knock.

OR… You could be one step ahead of your mechanic and use GOFAR to self-diagnose your car’s trouble codes and instantly understand the severity of the fault.

GOFAR explains 300+ common error codes in plain, plain English.

No confusing acronyms, no technical jargon, no obscure clues that only automotive engineers can decipher. Just an easy-to-understand explanation of what your car’s computer is trying to tell you is wrong.

The most common causes of the check engine light coming on

Defective oxygen sensor

The oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in your exhaust system. It then transmits this information to your car’s computer so it can adjust the engine’s air and fuel mixture.

If your oxygen sensor is faulty, your car will use more fuel and produce more emissions.

A faulty oxygen sensor is not an alarming problem, but have your mechanic fix it as soon as possible.

Faulty gas cap / gas cap

A cracked, faulty, or loose gas cap/gas cap can cause your engine light to come on – mainly because there is a vapor leak in the fuel system.

In other cases, it could be a more serious leak in the upper part of the fuel system.

Tighten or replace the gas cap, then drive on. After driving for a while, the check engine light should go out. If this is not the case, it may be time to ask your mechanic to have this checked.

Defective catalytic converter

A catalytic converter controls emissions in your car’s exhaust system. It converts carbon monoxide and other harmful gases into less harmful by-products.

When your catalytic converter fails, you spend more money on fuel and your car’s performance suffers.

A catalytic converter is generally an expensive auto part, costing around $500 to $1,000 each. And some cars have four of them!

Therefore, if this is the cause of your car’s check engine light coming on, go to a mechanic to have it checked. Don’t try to go any further as you could costly damage your car.

Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor.

The mass air flow meter, or MAF sensor, helps your car’s computer determine the amount of fuel that needs to be added based on the amount of air entering the engine.

A common cause of MAF sensor failures is a dirty or improperly installed air filter.

A MAF sensor failure is not an emergency. However, until you replace it, you will notice a decrease in fuel economy, poor vehicle performance, and rough engine idling.

Since your car’s air intake system is quite technical, to repair a faulty mass air flow sensor, consult a professional mechanic.

Faulty spark plugs

Do you replace your vehicle’s spark plugs according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule in your manual? If you are unsure, contact your service provider.

If not, bad or failed spark plugs could be the reason your check engine light is on. Have them replaced by a certified mechanic as soon as possible.

Faulty ignition coil

The ignition coil is part of your vehicle’s ignition system.

It acts as an induction coil, converting a vehicle’s voltage into the required volts so that it fires the spark plug to ignite the engine’s air-fuel mixture.

When the ignition coil burns out or shorts out, the check engine light comes on.

If the ignition coil is defective, it is worth having your vehicle’s entire ignition system checked by a mechanic or auto electrician.

Faulty charging system

If you don’t want to put your car in a situation where you need a jump start, make sure your battery is checked regularly and that the charging system is working properly.

If your car won’t start, the problem could be with the alternator or another part of the vehicle’s electrical charging system.

How urgent is the Check Engine Light?

There are several reasons a Check Engine Light may illuminate. Whether it’s something as small as a loose gas cap or something more serious like a failed catalytic converter, it should be checked and repaired.

Let’s take a closer look at the urgency levels…

Flashing check engine light

The rule of thumb is that if the check engine light is flashing, you cannot continue driving the car. It is an emergency. It often indicates an engine misfire.

If you keep driving you will probably cause irreversible damage, mainly to the (expensive) catalytic converter.

Don’t risk these costs – have your car towed to a certified mechanic for repairs.

Steady check engine light

It is okay to drive the car if the check engine light is on steadily. But only if the vehicle’s essential systems, such as brakes and lights, work.

Keep a close eye on your car’s dashboard warning lights, including coolant temperature and oil pressure.

You can also use an OBD2 reader (also called OBDII scanner) like GOFAR to clear the trouble codes and reset the check engine light.

Warning: Don’t ignore the problem if it is serious. Take your car to a certified professional for a proper diagnosis and repair as soon as possible.

Can the engine light go out by itself?

Until the cause of the Check Engine Light illuminating is resolved, it will remain on.

Once the fault codes have been addressed by your vehicle’s computer and erased from its memory, the Check Engine Light will go out as long as there are no other faults that would turn the light back on and set off another warning code.

How Do You Diagnose the Auto Check Engine Light Warnings?

If you don’t know the exact reason why your Check Engine Light is on, it can be very difficult to immediately determine whether or not you are safe enough to drive.

The good news is that an OBD code reader like GOFAR is a cheap and easy way to self-diagnose your car’s most common faults.

GOFAR constantly monitors the condition of your car and immediately warns you of detected problems.

Directly on your smartphone.

Explained in plain language – what the car warning light means, how bad it is and what you should do about it… before it gets expensive.

Protecting your valuable asset 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, whether it’s cost you $10,000 or $100,000, has never been this affordable.

Auto diagnostics in 2019 and beyond

Beyond 2019 and into the 2020s, cars will continue to get smarter as connectivity and the Internet of Things transform how the automotive industry adapts to these innovations.

Vehicle maintenance is increasingly being defined by concepts such as remote diagnostics and even predictive diagnostics (or prognostic, as opposed to traditional diagnostics) – enabled by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and deep learning neural networks.

Industry research forecasts that the global automotive remote diagnostics market will grow at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of nearly 17% from 2017 to 2021.

Accessing your car’s “brains” (referred to as the ECU or ECM) through affordable tools like GOFAR is an easy way to take advantage of all these innovations without having to spend thousands on expensive equipment or understanding the increasing complexity of your vehicles.

Finally

Don’t let the Check Engine Light panic you and ruin your commute.

Remember:

If the check engine light is flashing then it is an emergency and you must stop safely and then tow your car to the mechanic.

Learn more about car warning lights in our resource center.

If the light is solid/steady you can continue driving but use a leave-in OBD2 scanner like GOFAR to identify the problem.

Related: Auto Warning Lights Resource Center

If the check engine light comes on while driving, don’t panic! Notice if the car drives differently than normal. You may be wondering, “Can you drive a car with the check engine light on?” Whether it is safe to continue driving with the check engine light on depends on the vehicle’s performance and the root cause of its illumination. Just make sure your car is checked as soon as possible after turning on the lights. Do not neglect the necessary engine repair!

If nothing seems unusual, you can continue driving the car. The cause can be anything from a faulty oxygen sensor to a bad MAF sensor. It could also mean that your catalytic converter has failed and is no longer working.

Here are three steps to help you determine if it’s safe to continue or if you need to stop immediately:

What else is wrong? – In addition to the check engine light, your dashboard can also indicate low oil pressure or overheating problems. If these lights come on, stop and turn the engine off as soon as possible. Some cars may have a red check engine light alerting you to stop immediately, while an amber light is for an investigation. Always with Tranquillity! – If performance problems are associated with the check engine light, reduce your speed and conserve the engine. Avoid jumps in speed and erratic shifting. If you are towing a trailer or hauling heavy equipment, try to unload as soon as possible to avoid a potentially costly engine repair. Tighten the cap! – If the warning light comes on after refuelling, check that the fuel cap is tight. The sensor detects a leak in the evaporative emission system. It may take several engine restarts to reset the light.

The check engine light is tied into your car’s onboard diagnostic system and will illuminate (usually amber) if something goes wrong with any of the components and sensors. Problems in the electronic control system are stored in an “error code” to identify the source of the problem. Using a diagnostic computer, your mechanic can pinpoint the problem and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.

Wondering if you can drive a car with the engine light on? Contact our ASE certified technicians at Auto & Fleet Mechanic for more engine repair information and to schedule an appointment. Our auto business proudly serves residents in and around Modesto, CA.

What do the LED display color codes mean?

Each light signal has a different meaning. It is necessary to recognize them correctly in order to understand what state your sensor is in at the moment.

A green and solid LED indicates the battery is charged and the sensor is powered on but not connected.

indicates that the battery is charged and the sensor is switched on but not connected. A blinking green LED indicates that the Motion is active and recording a session, but is not connected to your mobile device.

A blue and solid LED indicates that your sensor is connected to your device and ready to record a session.

indicates that your sensor is connected to your device and ready to record a session. A blue and slowly flashing LED indicates that the sensor is recording a session and collecting data.

indicates that the sensor is recording a session and collecting data. A blue and rapidly blinking LED indicates that the sensor is synchronizing data.

A red and solid LED indicates that your Motion battery is low. The remaining battery is below 10%.

indicates that your Motion battery is low. The remaining battery is below 10%. A red and blinking LED indicates the sensor is recording but the battery is low.

An amber LED indicates that your Motion is charging.

A purple LED indicates that your sensor is updating.

If you leave the sensor still for a few seconds, the sensor will turn off and the LED will go out. Then all you have to do is shake the sensor to turn it back on.

If you encounter any of the following 3 cases, please contact us via customer service:

– When the LED flashes pink/red

– If the LED stays purple while no update is running

– If the LED turns off while your sensor is plugged in for charging

Having trouble connecting to your sensor? Click the button below to access the Bluetooth connectivity troubleshooting guide:

solution guide

security

What all the symbols on your car’s dashboard mean

We’ve all been there: you drive on, enjoying the view and suddenly you hear a beep – you look down and an icon appears on your dashboard. You start to wonder what could be wrong with your car.

Some symbols on your car’s dashboard are easier to understand than others. However, it’s important to know exactly what these warning lights mean in case you need to stop and call for help.

Types of car dashboard icons

Not every icon that appears on your dashboard is a warning light. Some have to do with vehicle functions (like lights and cruise control), or safety (like blind spot monitoring and lane departure warnings), or mechanical issues (like low tire pressure and engine temperature warnings).

When it comes to dashboard lighting, colors matter! Green or blue lights simply let you know a system is powered on or operational. Amber/amber warning lights generally indicate that your vehicle will soon need service or repairs. These alerts are less urgent than having a red and/or flashing light.

A red traffic light means you should act immediately! Some red dash lights are safety warnings (e.g. a seat belt reminder) and others are mechanical (e.g. engine overheating). When a red mechanical light comes on, stop as soon as possible and find out what’s going on. Your vehicle will likely stop working or be damaged if you continue to drive.

There are two things to keep in mind as you read through this list:

1. Every car is different, so the icons on your dashboard may vary slightly from those on our list. If in doubt, consult the operating instructions for your vehicle!

2. Many of these dashboard lights come on briefly when you turn on your vehicle and do a system check. As long as the lights go out within a few seconds, everything is working normally.

18 general warning lights on your car dashboard

1. Oil pressure warning light

2. Tire pressure warning light

3. Engine temperature warning light

4. Traction control warning light

5. Antilock Brake System Warning Light

6. Traction control malfunction light

7. Check Engine Light

8. Battery warning light

9. Low fuel indicator light

10. Automatic shift lock or engine start indicator light

11. Seat belt reminder light

12. Airbag warning light

13. Security indicator light

14. Fog lamp indicator light

15. Washer fluid indicator light

16. Brake warning light

17. Lane departure warning light

18. Transmission temperature warning light

1. Oil pressure warning light

What it means: This old-fashioned oil can icon means there’s a problem with your car’s oil pressure system. You are either running out of oil or your oil pump is not circulating enough fluid to properly lubricate the surfaces in your engine. (NOTE: On some vehicle dashboards, the word “OIL” appears in place of this icon.)

What to do: Poor engine lubrication can cause serious engine damage, so this is an important warning to heed! Stop as soon as it is safe, turn off the vehicle and check the oil level! Look in the engine compartment for any obvious oil leaks, then pull out the dipstick to check the fluid level.

If the oil level is low, the light may turn off when you add oil. If there is enough oil but the engine runs noisily, there may be a problem with the oil pump. If the oil level is fine and the engine runs smoothly, your oil pressure sensor may be faulty. In any case, it’s important to get your vehicle in as soon as possible so a mechanic can take a look and fix the cause of the low oil pressure/low oil pressure.

Read: How Long Can You Go Without Changing Your Oil?

2. Tire pressure warning light

What it means: Also known as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) icon, this image indicates an issue with your tire pressure or TPMS.

If the TPMS icon is solid, one or more of your tires is under- or over-inflated. If the TPMS icon flashes for 60-90 seconds when you turn on your vehicle and then stays on, even though your tires are properly inflated, then something is wrong with your TPMS sensors.

What to do: Driving on low or high pressure tires is unsafe and can damage your tires. We recommend stopping as soon as possible to inflate or deflate your tires to the correct pressure.

If your light comes on when you’re near a Virginia Tire & Auto, stop by! We have free air available at all of our branches, or one of our team members can fix or replace your tire in no time.

We can also look at your TPMS sensors to find problems and offer a repair quote. A faulty TPMS will not affect the performance of your tires, but it will prevent the system from alerting you when your tires are under-performing.

Read: My TPMS light is on: what does it mean?

3. Engine temperature warning light

Meaning: When this icon appears, it means your engine is overheating. This is most likely related to your coolant (also called antifreeze) but can be for a variety of reasons.

What to do: First, try turning off the air conditioning and turning on the heater to redistribute the heat in the passenger compartment. If that doesn’t work after a few minutes, stop as soon as it’s safe and turn off the vehicle. Let the engine cool down for at least 15 minutes and do not open the hood! Opening the bonnet when the engine is hot can cause burns/injuries from escaping steam or smoke.

While you’re waiting for the car to cool down, come up with a plan for what to do next. It’s a good time to call roadside assistance to top up your coolant or get towing to a nearby garage.

(All Virginia Tire & Auto car care services include 365 days of free roadside assistance up to $200.)

Read: What Happens When a Car Overheats?

4. Traction Control Light

What it means: This car icon indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is activated. The traction control system uses your anti-lock braking system (ABS) to determine if one wheel is spinning faster than the others. If it detects that a wheel is spinning, it brakes until the car regains traction. This is most helpful when driving in the rain or snow.

What to do: Keep driving, but watch out for slippery conditions.

5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning light

What it means: When you brake hard, like on a slick road, ABS pulses the brakes to keep your wheels from locking. When the ABS warning light comes on, it means there is something wrong with the system.

What to do: Because this is such an important safety feature, it’s important to have a mechanic diagnose the problem as soon as possible.

Read: How does the anti-lock braking system work?

6. Traction control malfunction light

What it means: This light indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system may have a faulty or damaged sensor or other malfunction. In some cars, the same control module controls the ABS and the traction control system, so this indicator light will sometimes come on when there is a problem with your ABS.

What to do: While this won’t affect your daily drive, you should have it checked soon to ensure your vehicle is operating safely in poor conditions.

7. Check Engine Light

What it means: Your check engine light can come on for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it’s triggered by an open, loose, or cracked gas cap, causing fuel to evaporate. But sometimes it indicates a serious problem, like low oil pressure or overheating! (NOTE: Some car dashboards display the words “CHECK ENGINE” in place of this icon.)

What to do: If you haven’t noticed a change in how the car is driving, and you don’t notice any unusual sounds or smells, you can continue driving a moderate distance (preferably home or to your local Virginia Tire & Auto). .

If the check engine light is red and/or flashing, you should stop immediately! On most vehicles, a flashing check engine light signals that you have a major problem that could seriously damage your engine if you ignore it.

In any case, make sure to check the light and get the problem fixed as soon as possible.

Read: Is It Safe to Drive Your Car With the Check Engine Light On?

8. Battery warning light

What it means: This light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s charging system. Possible culprits include a loose or damaged battery cable, a bad alternator, or another electrical fault. You may notice your watch dimming or your headlights dimming. Or in some cases, your car may not start at all.

What to do: Our experts can help diagnose battery-related or electrical issues, and if you need a new battery, we offer America’s #1 battery replacement – Interstate Batteries. Don’t wait too long to have it checked out or you may have to jump start your car to bring it to the workshop!

Read: Why won’t my car start? Troubleshooting the electrical system

9. Low fuel indicator light

What it means: You’re probably familiar (maybe a little too familiar!) with this dashboard light. It simply means your vehicle is running out of fuel.

What to do: If you still have a long way to go, don’t push your luck! You never know what the weather or traffic patterns will be like, so it’s best to stop and fill up at the nearest gas station.

Bonus Tip: Most vehicles have a triangular arrow next to the pump icon on their fuel gauge. This arrow indicates which side of the vehicle the fuel tank is on!

10. Automatic shift lock or engine start indicator light

What it means: If you see this dashboard icon, you are most likely trying to change gears or start the ignition without applying the brake. The automatic shift lock locks your vehicle in park or neutral until you apply the brake.

What to do: Press the brake pedal, then shift gears or start the ignition, depending on what you want to do.

11. Seat belt reminder light

What it means: This car light simply reminds you or your passenger to fasten your seat belts. It is usually accompanied by a repetitive ringing.

What to do: Buckle up! According to the CDC, seat belts reduce serious accident-related injuries by about 50%.

12. Airbag indicator light

What it means: The airbag warning light is a signal that something is wrong with one of your airbags or the entire airbag system.

What to do: You should have your car checked immediately! Your car’s airbags protect you in the event of an accident, so it’s important to make sure they’re working properly.

13. Security indicator light

Meaning: If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft system, this symbol will flash continuously when the security system is activated. If it’s solid and the car won’t start, then the immobilizer has activated due to a security threat or malfunction. If it is solid and the car runs normally, then the security system is not working and needs to be repaired.

What to do: If the vehicle is locked, follow your vehicle’s instructions for disabling the security system. If it’s a malfunction, your security system won’t work properly until you have it repaired.

14. Fog lamp indicator light

Meaning: This symbol indicates that your fog lights are on.

What to do: Fog lights should only be used when your visibility is less than 100 meters. If you turn them on unnecessarily, they can make it difficult for other drivers on the road to see you.

15. Washer fluid indicator light

What it means: This dashboard icon mimics the movement of your wipers and means you’re low on washer fluid.

What to do: Top up the reservoir with liquid as soon as possible.

16. Brake warning light

What it means: If you see this symbol on your dashboard or the word “BRAKE” in red then either the parking brake is on or there is a problem with your braking system.

What to do: First, stop and check that your parking brake is on. Attempt to apply and release the brake while your vehicle is in Park. If the light stays on with the parking brake off, have your vehicle towed to the nearest Virginia Tire & Auto service center.

17. Lane departure warning light

What it means: Most cars produced today are equipped with a lane departure warning safety feature. It activates this light on your dashboard and makes a beeping sound when it detects your vehicle is deviating from your lane.

What to do: Correct your steering if necessary. (The light may come on when you intentionally change lanes.)

18. Transmission temperature warning light

What it means: When this symbol appears on your dashboard, it means your gearbox is overheating. This can be caused by low gear oil, worn gear parts, heavy towing, or something else.

What to do: Stop as soon as it is safe and turn off the vehicle. Wait for the vehicle to cool before attempting to drive again, and visit a workshop as soon as possible. If the lights stay on and you have a long way to go, your best bet is to call a tow truck.

Problems with the car?

Whether you need a simple oil change or a major repair, take your vehicle to Virginia Tire & Auto. Our experienced technicians will diagnose and fix the problem so you can get back on the road safely. Make an appointment today at one of our 17 locations!

When you see a small light come on on your vehicle’s dashboard, it usually means one thing – something is wrong! And while those lights rarely show up, it’s scary when they do, especially when it’s that pesky dripping oil can. Has the oil run out or is it a leak? How long is the light on? How much of an emergency is that? Before you panic, find out what the oil light on your car means, what the problem could be and how to fix it.

What does it mean when the oil lamp lights up?

If the oil light comes on on your dashboard, it may mean that your vehicle has low oil pressure. This drop in oil pressure can indicate a number of things: you are low on oil, your oil is dirty, or you have an oil leak.

How do I know if my oil level is low?

Motor oil doesn’t last forever. And while you won’t burn it out like you would with gas, it will eventually run low after enough driving. While almost every vehicle has an oil pressure monitoring system, not all vehicles have oil pressure gauges on the dash. It is therefore best to check your oil level directly at the source!

Luckily, checking the oil level is easy! Start by consulting your owner’s manual. It will guide you through the following steps and tell you where to look for different parts. Open your hood and locate your vehicle’s oil dipstick – it usually has a yellow or reddish handle. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag. Reinstall and remove the dipstick to get a fresh oil reading. If the remaining oil at the end of the dipstick is at or below the “Add” mark, it is time for an oil change.

If your oil light comes on when you brake, it could also be a sign that your oil level is low. After all, oil is a liquid. And if your tank isn’t quite full, oil can slosh away from the oil pressure sensor, especially when you brake. Thank you sloth!

How do I know if my oil is dirty?

Unlike your gas light, which comes on when your fuel tank is low, an illuminated oil light doesn’t always mean you’re low on oil. It could also mean that your engine’s oil has become too dirty.

How does engine oil pollute? As it runs through the engine, it can pick up dirt, dust, and small debris, causing dirt to build up. While you may still have the right amount of oil in your car, the clog can set off your oil light.

Look for dirty oil the same way you check your oil level – examine the oil on the dipstick. Clean oil should be transparent, amber, and somewhat runny. If your oil looks very dark, has a funny smell, or feels thick and mushy, it’s probably old and should be changed.

How do I know if my oil is leaking?

If your oil light is on but you recently changed your oil, you may have a leak. To check for oil leaks, leave your car on a level surface for a few hours and examine the ground underneath for puddles.

If you don’t see any puddles but still suspect a leak, try topping up your oil to the full mark on your dipstick. (Your owner’s manual can show you how to do this for your specific make and model). Make sure the oil lamp is off when you turn on the car. Drive off and see if the oil light comes on again. If so, check your oil levels. If they’re low, it’s time to make an appointment for an oil leak repair.

Sometimes oil leaks cause other symptoms like burning smell or smoke from the engine. However, these symptoms may not always appear. Usually the best way to rule out engine oil related problems is to take your car for a full vehicle inspection. The expert technicians at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care will help you determine if you have a leak.

My oil is fine, but the oil light is still on.

The oil gauge on your dash doesn’t always mean your oil level is low, leaking or dirty. Instead, it may mean that your oil pressure sensor or oil pump needs to be replaced.

Is my oil pressure sensor defective?

Your oil pressure sensor is a small plug-like sensor that monitors your vehicle’s oil pressure and alerts you when it drops below a certain limit. But like everything else in your car, it can wear out, which could send erroneous signals triggering your oil light.

To check if your oil pressure sensor is worn, the sensor must be removed using an oil pressure sensor socket. If you don’t have the tools and expertise to do this yourself, have an experienced technician fix your oil pressure sensor.

Is my oil pump defective?

A bad oil pump will not efficiently circulate oil to your engine’s moving parts, often resulting in engine noise and overheating, which can lead to more serious problems. Stop driving immediately if you suspect your oil pump is defective. Firestone Complete Auto Care Roadside Assistance can get you safely to one of our nearby locations so we can get your oil pump and vehicle back to peak performance.

Your one stop shop for oil services

Motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. You won’t get very far without them, which is why many technicians find regular oil changes to be one of the most critical aspects of vehicle maintenance. Make an appointment with your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care and we’ll not only give your vehicle a fresh oil change, we’ll also perform a free 19-point inspection.

Diesel powered vehicle light symbols

A common car light symbol on the dash of diesel powered vehicles is the glow plug indicator – it will illuminate when the engine glow plugs are still warm and your engine should not be started until this light goes out – if it flashes after the engine has started a problem has been detected and a glow plug may be worn out. Below is a list of other dashboard lights specifically for diesel vehicles.

Quick Fix: The GOFAR app automatically diagnoses the problem and can save $1,000 on costly car repairs. Learn more or buy now.

Note: Your dashboard icons and vehicle warning lights may differ from the dashboard lights below. The colors and/or designs may vary. See your vehicle handbook for more information.