We have a cheat sheet for you before your practical test! Here's what they mean and What are the lights that come on on the car dashboard? and drive with more preparation, attention and safety!
If you're ever confused or unsure about what those little lights that light up on your car's dashboard mean, don't worry: you're not alone!
Certainly, these lights are like a means of communication between the vehicle and the driver, functioning as warning signals or useful information about the condition of the car.
So keep reading and we’ll explain everything, teaching you how to interpret each of them in a simple and practical way.
Ready? Let's go!
After all, what are these? car dashboard lights?
First of all, the dashboard lights come on as soon as you start the engine, and are responsible for letting you know what is happening with the vehicle.
In other words, each color or symbol has a specific meaning, which can range from a simple warning to a more serious alert.
- Red or orange lights: They signal that something needs immediate attention! In fact, in the case of red lights, the ideal is to stop the vehicle safely and, if necessary, call for assistance.
- Yellow lights: Indicate warnings. You can drive to the mechanic, but you shouldn't put off the repair, okay?
- Green or blue lights: In short, they are only informative, such as the use of high beams, windshields or turn signals.
Furthermore, knowing the difference between these lights is the first step to taking good care of your car and avoiding headaches.
Knowing all this, now, let's look at the meaning of the main lights that you can find on the panel!
Meaning of car dashboard lights
First, understand the warnings and keep yourself and your vehicle safe on any road!
This way, it will be easy to know What are the lights that come on on the car dashboard? Check it out:
1. Engine oil pressure
- What is it? An icon that looks like a watering can.
- Meaning: It indicates that the oil pressure is low, which could be due to a lack of oil, as well as a lubrication failure.
- What to do? Park your vehicle as soon as possible and seek a mechanic immediately, as ignoring this can cause serious damage to the engine.
2. Battery
- What is it? An icon shaped like a battery.
- Meaning: If this light remains on, there may be a fault in the battery charging system, such as a loss of voltage, for example.
- What to do? Take the car to have the alternator and battery condition checked.
3. Brake
- What is it? A circle with an exclamation point or a “P” in the middle.
- Meaning: It could indicate that the handbrake is engaged or that there is a problem with the brake system, such as a fluid leak.
- What to do? If it's not the handbrake, take the car to a mechanic immediately.
4. Hazard lights
- What is it? Two overlapping triangles.
- Meaning: It should be used to warn other drivers of an emergency. However, avoid using it improperly, as it can cause confusion.
- What to do? Only call when there is a necessary situation, such as a car problem.
5. Airbag
- What is it? A circle with a human figure and a small ball in front.
- Meaning: Points out problems in the airbag system.
- What to do? Take your car to a garage to ensure safety in the event of a collision.
6. High temperature
- What is it? A thermometer inside a liquid.
- Meaning: The engine is overheating, possibly due to lack of water in the radiator or a ventilation failure.
- What to do? Stop the car, wait for it to cool down and check the water level in the radiator. If it persists, go to a mechanic.
7. Electronic injection
- What is it? A symbol resembling an engine.
- Meaning: Problems with electronic injection or stability control.
- What to do? Of course, it is a good idea to look for a specialized mechanic to have a detailed diagnosis.
8. Preheating the spark plugs
- What is it? A spring-shaped icon.
- Meaning: It appears mainly in diesel cars, indicating that the spark plugs need to be heated or changed.
- What to do? Always make sure your vehicle's spark plugs are in good condition to avoid later problems.
9. Low fuel level
- What is it? A fuel pump icon.
- Meaning: The fuel is running out.
- What to do? Look for the nearest gas station to avoid being stuck on the road.
Always pay attention to the lights on your car's dashboard!
Undeniably, the lights on your car's dashboard are essential for the safety and proper functioning of your vehicle, so always keep an eye on them.
In other words, ignoring these signs can lead to serious problems and high costs.
So, whenever you notice something strange on the dashboard, consult the car manual or seek professional help, ok?
So now that you know What are the lights that come on on the car dashboard?, you are better prepared to interpret these signs and take care of your car as it deserves.
So drive safely and see you next time!