Understanding Your Cars Check Engine And Warnings Lights

Don't Let Your Car Speak in Tongues!

Your car talks to you, but not in words. It uses a series of lights and symbols on the dashboard to communicate its health and needs. Learning how to deal with this "language" can give you peace of mind, avoid breakdowns and help save you money by mitigating problems.

Check fuel cap

The EVAP test system functions by creating a vacuum within the fuel system to assess its integrity. The cap check light illuminates when an air leak is detected within the system, which could originate from the tank, cap, or another component. Even after replacing the cap, improper fitting of new caps may result in air leakage into the tank. Alternatively, the issue could stem from a hole in the tank, the inlet pipe, or one of the breathers. It could also mean the gas cap was not closed correclty, always try to get a few clicks in when tightening the cap. If the light persists, it is advisable to consult a professional mechanic.

Low fuel

The low fuel light is a simple warning that your fuel level is low. It is a good idea to fill up as soon as possible as running out of fuel can cause damage to the fuel pump and other components. It is also a good idea to keep your fuel tank at least half full in the winter to prevent condensation from forming in the tank. This light comes on at different levels depending on the vehicle, but it is generally around 1/8th of a tank.

Low tire pressure (TPMS sensors)

The low tire pressure light indicates that one or more of your tires are underinflated. This can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling. It is important to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. If the light comes on, it is a good idea to check the pressure in all four tires and inflate them to the correct pressure. If the light persists, it could indicate a puncture or a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system. It is advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect the tires and the system to determine the cause of the issue.

ABS sensor warning

The ABS sensor warning light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. This system helps prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain control of the vehicle. If the light comes on, it could indicate a problem with the ABS sensor, the ABS module, or another component of the system. It is important to have the system inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the cause of the issue and make any necessary repairs. Ignoring this warning light could compromise your safety on the road.

The "Not-So-Scary" Check Engine Light

The infamous check engine light is perhaps the most enigmatic signal on your dashboard. It might not be the thing you want to see come on, but it often indicates issues that if addressed promptly, can be minor or no issue at all. Often times this can be the light that comes on instead of a fuel cap light if a vehicle is not equipped with one. The check engine light can signify problems ranging from a evap leak, o2 sensor to issues with the engine or emissions system. While a steady light might indicate a non-emergency issue, a flashing light signals a more urgent problem requiring immediate attention. A good idea is to have a check engine reader in your car, a cheap one can be purchased for around $20 and can help you diagnose the issue before taking it to a mechanic. You can get a more expensive one as well at around $100 that could read more codes and give you more information in other systems like issues with abs, or airbag or transmission codes.

Battery low voltage warning

The battery low voltage warning light indicates that the battery is not charging properly. This could be due to a problem with the alternator, the battery, or the charging system. If the light comes on, it is important to have the system inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the cause of the issue. Ignoring this warning light could result in a dead battery and an unexpected breakdown. To diagnose yourself first, you can check the voltage of the battery with a multimeter as well as the voltage when the car is running, it should be around 14 volts. If the voltage is same or lower than when the car is off, it could be an alternator issue.

The Oil Pressure Warning

The oil pressure warning light indicates that the engine is not receiving enough oil pressure. This could be due to a low oil level, a failing oil pump, or a clogged oil filter. If the light comes on, it is important to stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and check the oil level. If the oil level is low, top it up with the correct grade of oil. If the light persists, it is important to have the system inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the cause of the issue. Ignoring this warning light could result in serious engine damage.

Brake system warning

The brake system warning light could indicate a few things, a engaged parking brake, low brake fluid (possibly due to a leak) or an abs or general breaking sytem problem. If the light comes on, it is important to have the system inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the cause of the issue. Ignoring this warning light could compromise your safety on the road.

Conclusion

Understanding the signals your car sends you can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly. If you see any of these warning lights on your dashboard, there are a few things you can do to investigate the issue yourself. It is important to get a professional opinion and have it insepcted by a certified mechanic to determine the cause of the issue and make any necessary repairs. Ignoring certain warning lights could result in serious damage to your vehicle and compromise your safety on the road.