Safety
on the road is no accident. For example, when a warning light
illuminates on a car’s dashboard, it is alerting you to a situation that
requires your attention. While not all warning lights are a sign that
disaster is imminent, no warning indicator should ever be ignored.
That’s
the word from the experts at AAA, who encourage motorists to read their
owner’s manual and know what each of the warning lights in their
vehicle means. To help, they offer the following tips:
Oil Pressure Light
The
oil pressure light is usually an oilcan symbol , although on older
vehicles it may be a light with the word “OIL.” It comes on when there
is a drop in engine oil pressure. Of all the warning lights, the oil
pressure light indicates the greatest potential for serious mechanical
damage.
If
the oil pressure warning light comes on and stays on, pull off the road
at the first safe opportunity, shut off the engine and call for
assistance.
Engine Temperature Light
The
engine temperature light is usually a thermometer symbol, although in
older vehicles it may be a light displaying the word “TEMP.” It comes on
when the engine temperature is above the recommended maximum. Unless
the temperature is quickly brought under control, major engine damage is
likely to occur.
If
there are any signs of a cooling system leak, pull off the road at the
earliest safe opportunity, shut off the engine and call for assistance.
Be careful when opening the hood in the presence of steam, and never
remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
Charging System Light
The
charging system light is usually a battery symbol, although on older
vehicles it may be a light displaying the word “ALT” or “GEN.” It comes
on when the vehicle electrical system is no longer being supplied power
by the alternator.
If
this light comes on, shut down all unnecessary electrical loads such as
the radio, heater or air-conditioning, and then drive the vehicle to a
repair facility immediately for further inspection.
Check Engine Light
The
check engine light comes on when there is a problem affecting the
vehicle’s exhaust emissions. If the light comes on and stays on, make an
appointment with an auto repair shop to have the problem checked in the
near future. However, if the check engine light begins flashing
repeatedly, the catalytic converter is overheating. Should this occur,
drive the vehicle to a repair shop immediately for further diagnosis.
Disregarding
a flashing check engine light could start a fire, destroy the catalytic
converter and result in necessary repairs that could easily exceed
$1,000.
