Every time you start your car, they glow to greet you and then fade away - hopefully not to be seen again until the next engine start.
AAA urges motorists to heed their vehicle's cry for attention and take note of the red and yellow indicators on the instrument panel that illuminate when a problem occurs.
Warning light test - When the ignition key is first turned to the on position, all warning lights should illuminate. The "big three" lights typically remain on until the engine is started and running. If a warning light fails to illuminate at this time, have the related system checked by a reputable repair facility. Once the engine is running, all warning lights should go out within a few seconds.
Engine oil pressure -When the oil pressure warning light illuminates, the engine has lost its supply of pressurized lubricating oil and severe engine damage or catastrophic failure can occur within seconds. Of all the warning lights, the oil pressure light indicates the greatest potential for serious mechanical damage, and also allows you the shortest time in which to take appropriate action.
If the oil pressure warning light comes on and stays on, pull off the road immediately, shut off the engine and call a friend, family member or AAA to have your vehicle towed to a repair facility. Unless you are in an extremely dangerous situation, do not attempt to drive the vehicle. This can significantly increase the extent of damage to your engine, turning a possibly minor repair into a complete engine replacement.
Engine coolant temperature - The engine coolant temperature warning light commonly displays a thermometer symbol or the word temp. When the coolant temperature light illuminates, the engine temperature has exceeded the safe maximum. Until the rise in coolant temperature is reversed, the engine will suffer accelerated wear. If the increase in temperature continues, major engine damage or catastrophic failure will result.
The coolant temperature warning light is second only to the oil pressure warning light in indicating the potential for serious mechanical damage. The coolant temperature light, however, does give you a little more time in which to take appropriate action. If it comes on, quickly assess the situation.
Steam or liquid coolant rising from the hood is a clear indication of overheating and/or a leak. At the first safe opportunity, pull off the road and call for assistance. A lack of steam or leaking coolant does not mean it is safe to drive the vehicle. Continuing to operate an engine with an illuminated temperature warning light will result in a major damage and a significant repair bill.
Do not attempt to open the hood in the presence of excessive steam, and never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The cooling system is under pressure, and scalding coolant will be expelled with great force.
Charging system - The charging system warning light commonly displays a battery symbol or the abbreviation alt or gen. When this warning light illuminates, the vehicle electrical system is no longer being supplied with power by the alternator.
A charging system failure rarely results in serious mechanical damage, and of the big three, this one gives you the greatest amount of time to take appropriate action. Depending on the electrical demands of your vehicle, and the reserve capacity of its battery, you will generally have approximately 20 minutes of daylight driving time before voltage drops to the point where the ignition system will no longer function and the engine will quit.
If the charging system warning light comes on, turn off all unnecessary electrical accessories and drive to the nearest repair facility to have the vehicle checked. If you are a long distance from a repair shop, drive to a safe location where you can call for help and have your vehicle towed to a repair facility.[[In-content Ad]]
