There's a light showing on my dashboard - what should I do?
There are different car warning lights that can illuminate on their dash, the most common car warning lights and what actions should be taken when they become illuminated. If in any doubt, call us and we will provide our expert knowledge to diagnose and fix the problem.
There are different car warning lights that can illuminate on the dash. Here are some of the most common warning lights and the action to take when they show. If in doubt, call us and we will provide our expert knowledge to assist you.
Anti-lock Braking works with your braking system to prevent wheels from locking, as well as traction control, brake assist and electronic stability control. When the ignition is turned on, this light should illuminate briefly to let you know the system is running properly. If it illuminates while driving, this indicates that there is an issue. Normal braking is still operational (without ABS).
Your vehicle is safe to drive, but have it checked out by a certified professional as soon as possible.
This light will remain illuminated when the parking brake is in use. Illumination after releasing the parking brake may indicate low brake fluid level. Refer to your owner’s manual regarding brake fluid level. As the brakes wear, the fluid level will slowly drop. We will be sure to have your brake fluid level checked each time you have your vehicle serviced to ensure there is not an abnormal loss of fluid, which requires more immediate attention.
If the brake fluid is too low and brake pedal travel is noticeably longer than usual, one of the two hydraulic brake circuits may have failed.
Do not continue driving and seek professional assistance.
If the light remains illuminated, even though the brake fluid level is correct, this may indicate a sensor fault. Take your vehicle to a certified professional as soon as possible.
If both the ABS and the Brake System Warning lights come on together while driving, stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Reduce your speed gradually and immediately move to a safe location. Use the brakes carefully. Do not step on the brake pedal abruptly.
Seek professional assistance immediately.
This light should illuminate when the ignition is turned on and should turn off as soon as the engine starts. If it does not illuminate at all, or if it illuminates while driving, your battery is not being charged because there is a fault with your charging system. This may be due to one of the following:
- Slack battery or starter terminals
- A broken or loose alternator drive belt
- An alternator failure
If the drive belt is broken, it must be replaced before you restart the engine. The coolant system may rely on this belt and its failure could cause the engine to overheat, in turn causing engine damage. Immediately move the vehicle to a safe location and turn off the engine.
Do not restart the vehicle and seek professional assistance.