Your vehicle’s dashboard is a critical part of your vehicle, relaying vital information about the status and functionality of various systems within your car. Most people ignore dashboard indicators other than the speedometer and gas gauge, so it can be alarming when a warning light shows up. However, if you take the time to know what your warning lights mean, you can better respond to them when they appear.
Unlike in the old days, when cars had a few analog gauges, today’s cars feature technological advances that allow owners to monitor their vehicle systems more closely, including verifying tire pressure, fluid levels, etc. However, it’s essential to differentiate between these indicators and vehicle warning lights. While indicator lights signify status, including telling you your fog lights are on, your vehicle is in overdrive, your trunk is open, and so on, warning lights are designed to alert you to a vehicle problem that could potentially become serious if not addressed promptly.
At Mike White Ford, safe driving is our highest priority, so we recommend you take some time to familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s warning indicators.
Knowing the Symbols
While dashboard configurations can vary, warning indicators are often similar from vehicle to vehicle, regardless of a car’s manufacturer. However, this is not always the case, so refer to your car’s manual to fully understand what your vehicle’s lights mean.
When you start a Ford vehicle, many dashboard warning lights may briefly illuminate to ensure they function correctly. However, if any warning lights remain lit after startup, it’s imperative to understand what those lights mean before you drive off.
The first thing you should understand is that the warning lights are color-coded. Many are icons indicating what part of the vehicle needs attention, while others may indicate the system that needs attention by letters (for example, P for the parking brake or ABS for the anti-lock braking system). Green and blue lights are usually just indicator lights, as described above. However, yellow lights indicate that a particular system may need service, like the electrical system, steering, or airbags. Orange (amber) or red lights signify a problem that requires immediate attention.
If you are getting a warning light at startup, confirm what it means by referencing your manual. If the warning indicates your vehicle needs service, take the time to call Mike White Ford’s service department and talk to a specialist. Tell your service contact which symbol appears, and schedule a service visit. The technician can explain what the potential problems may be and can advise you regarding the driveability of your vehicle. Some issues can be easily fixed, for example, by adding coolant or steering fluid to an empty reservoir. However, others may require the services of a mechanic.
Sometimes, a warning light comes on while you are driving. This can be much more disconcerting. However, even then, do not panic but take appropriate measures to stay safe.
The most critical warning is any flashing red warning light. If this happens while you are driving, do not take any sudden actions that can cause an accident to you or others on the road. Activate your hazard lights, check the road and your mirrors, and cautiously pull off the road at the nearest safe location. Call Ford service and talk to a service specialist. If your service specialist indicates that you can safely drive your vehicle to the service location (if it is very close), you may. Still, having your car towed to that location is often wiser. Occasionally, a vehicle problem can make driving unsafe, or the vehicle can sustain greater damage if you continue to drive it.
Common Warning Lights
One common warning light drivers may encounter is the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) light. This light indicates a system error. In most cases, you will still have normal braking functionality unless the ABS indicator is accompanied by the brake system warning lamp. In such cases, it’s crucial to have the system checked by your Ford service department promptly to ensure optimal braking performance.
Similarly, the Battery Warning Light indicates a system error related to the vehicle’s electrical system. When illuminated while driving, your first step should be to switch off unnecessary electrical equipment (for example, the infotainment system) and seek assistance from a Ford service department to address the issue promptly.
The Brake System Warning Lamp, on the other hand, may indicate a variety of issues, including the application of the parking brake or potential faults within the braking system. Ignoring this warning could lead to decreased braking performance and should be investigated as soon as possible.
For hybrid electric vehicles, the High Voltage Electric System Failure light is a critical indicator of electrical component faults that could lead to vehicle shutdown or limited operation. Immediate attention is necessary to address such issues.
Aside from these, warning lights such as the Motor Coolant Temperature light, Engine Oil light, and Front Airbag light signal potential problems that require prompt action to prevent further damage or ensure occupant safety.
Perhaps the most critical warning light is the one shaped like an engine. The yellow Service Engine Soon light can indicate various system errors, including those related to emissions control. Ignoring this warning could lead to reduced engine performance or even component damage. While a service engine light may not be flashing, timely inspection and maintenance are vital to keep your car running.
If an orange or red Engine Warning light is flashing, you should pull over. While some engine problems are minor – that is, they can be easily fixed – this light activates for various reasons that all relate to the basic functionality of your engine. You need to have your car problem diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible.
Generally, modern cars are so reliable that we often take them for granted, assuming they will work whenever we need them. However, cars are mechanical machines and utilize many computerized systems, and parts can wear out or malfunction. Thankfully, the computerized monitoring of various vehicle systems in your Ford will often indicate the existence of a problem before it becomes serious, leaves you stranded, or causes a vehicle breakdown. Heeding the warning lights on your Ford dashboard is essential for maintaining your safety and safeguarding your vehicle’s functionality and reliability. Prompt action in response to these warnings can help prevent accidents and help you avoid problems from escalating.
To learn more about Ford or to test drive a new Ford vehicle and see the latest safety and convenience innovations, contact Mike White Ford today in Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint.