Modern vehicles are equipped with the necessary tools to help drivers have the upper hand with proactive maintenance. However, if you've ever been cruising down the road, there are times when a symbol illuminates on the dashboard. While you certainly don't need to panic right then and there, it's good to familiarize yourself with what they mean. At Glockner Toyota, we provide this brief overview to let you know what these common symbols mean. If you're ever in doubt, our expert technicians are here to handle all your service needs.
1. Tire Pressure Warning
The tire pressure warning indicator is usually a circular design with an exclamation point (!) place in the center. It lights up when your tires have lost a certain percentage of air. Whenever you see this symbol, be sure to fill up your tires. If you aren't sure of the appropriate tire pressure, you can find that information typically on the tire itself, on the inside of the door, or refer to your owner's manual.
2. Low Oil Warning
This symbol has a picture of a container with a drop coming out of it. When you see this symbol, it means you have low oil levels, or there could be an issue with the pressure. Be sure to get to check right away because you risk damage to your engine.
3. Engine Warning
An engine warning usually looks almost like a submarine, yellowish in color. There can be several reasons that the check engine light comes on. Here are the most common ones. Bring your vehicle in for a diagnostic test as soon as you can if you notice this symbol.
- Failed oxygen sensors
- A loose gas cap
- Issues with the catalytic converter
- Spark plug misfires
4. Battery
The check battery symbol is a rectangular shape that has + and - signs on each side. It essentially means that there is a problem charging the battery. There could be other problems, such as corroded cables or an issue with the alternator. If you tried troubleshooting on your own and the light is still on, bring the car in for a battery check.
5. Low Fuel
This symbol looks precisely the way it should- like a gas pump. It usually turns on when you have less than 1.5 gallons of gas left. While this indicator is self-explanatory, you don't want to ignore it for too long, or you'll be calling your insurance company to fill you up on the side of the highway.
6. Seatbelt Reminders
Hopefully, every safe driver knows the importance of wearing their seat belt when they drive. But, just in case you forget, that's what this symbol is for. For most vehicles, it will continue to light up or even make a beeping sound until you have buckled up.
7. Engine Temperature
This symbol looks almost like a sailboat, but it means that your engine is too hot. There could be an issue with the cooling system, or you might just be low on coolant. This light is another one that you should never continue driving with. You can have severe damage to your engine.
8. Antilock Brake Warning
The antilock brake warning is easy to distinguish, as it spells out "ABS" on the dashboard. Several reasons can cause this, such as being low on brake fluid, a compromised speed sensor, faulty ABS modules, or a problem with the hydraulic pump. Get it inspected right away if this happens.
9. Washer Fluid
The washer fluid reminder looks like a windshield telling you that you're low. Always make sure you have proper washer fluid levels because losing visibility is one of the primary reasons for an auto accident. It's easy to refill and only takes a couple of minutes.
10. Cruise Control
When you have set the cruise control, the symbol looks like a speedometer with a set speed. You have engaged cruise control when it's illuminated, meaning your vehicle will stay at that speed. It will automatically pop off the dashboard if you apply the brake or decide to turn it off manually.
Importance of Knowing What Symbols On Your Dashboard Mean
The symbols on your dashboard are your vehicle's way of telling you that something needs to be checked. While not all of them necessarily indicate a significant problem, things could worsen by not taking the time to investigate it further. If you want to get your car checked for something you've noticed on your dashboard, give Glocker Toyota a call. We are honored to provide you with superior service and always ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.
