What Do the Lights on My Dashboard Mean in Edmond, OK?
What Do the Lights on My Dashboard Mean in Edmond, OK?
Has a mysterious light suddenly appeared on your vehicle’s dashboard, and you’re not sure what it means? We’re here to help! If it’s been a few years since you took your driver’s ed test, it can be easy to forget what all the vehicle warning lights mean. Some of them are just there to remind you that features are activated, such as your high beam headlights and cruise control. Others are warnings that you need to pay attention to, as they may indicate serious problems with your vehicle that could be dangerous. If you see any of these warning lights, the service team here at Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond will be happy to help resolve the problem — just make a service appointment. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific information related to your model’s dashboard lights, but for now, here’s our list of common dashboard lights and what they mean.
Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light
This light can indicate a lot of different problems with the engine that could lead to powertrain problems. If you see this light, bring your vehicle in for service as soon as you can.
Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Your vehicle’s engine is overheating. If you see this light, immediately pull over and turn off the engine so it can cool down.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
The oil pressure in your engine is low, so it’s time for an oil change. We’d be happy to take care of that for you, so make an appointment online or stop by our service department.
Battery/Charging Warning Light
Your car’s battery voltage is low. This could be due to a wiring issue, a broken fan belt or just an old battery. If you see this, park and open your hood. If you don’t see any obvious signs of damage, call our technicians and they’ll help you out.
Door Ajar Indicator Light
This one’s simple: Your door or trunk is slightly open. Double check your doors before you continue driving.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light
You have low pressure in one or more of your tires. Stop at a gas station with an air pump (they’re often free to use) and check to see which of your tires is low. If you don’t have a tire gauge, you can usually buy one inside the gas station. You can check the correct poundage for your tires in your owner’s manual or the door jamb of your driver’s side door, and make sure you don't overfill your tires. Once the tire is filled, the light should go off.
Brake System Light
This light can signify one of four problems: your brake fluid is low, your parking brake is on, there’s an Automatic Braking System (ABS) problem or there’s a bigger problem with the brake system. Check the parking brake first, and if the light doesn’t go off, bring in your vehicle to have the brakes checked.
Traction Control Indicator Light
If you see this light, you’re probably driving in the rain or snow. This icon lights up when your vehicle’s traction control is activated. Drive cautiously, but don’t panic — this system helps you stay safe when driving on slippery roads.
Security Indicator Light
Something is faulty in your car’s security system. Bring your car here to Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond and we’ll make sure you leave with a secure vehicle.
Cruise Control Indicator Light
Your cruise control has been activated.
If your car is ready for its regularly scheduled maintenance or needs more extensive repairs, visit Joe Cooper Ford of Edmond at 600 W. Memorial Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 or contact us online if you have any questions you’d like answered first. Our knowledgeable service technicians look forward to serving customers from Oklahoma City, Moore and Midwest City.