CAR TIPS & ADVICE

Car drivers should be aware of warning signs through the indicator lights on the dashboard to provide timely response to ensure the engine's longevity and smooth operation.

Car manufacturers have deliberately designed warning lights on the dashboard to help drivers know the dangerous level while driving. If the red light is extremely dangerous, the yellow light will be less dangerous, and in this case, the car can be operated, but it should be brought repair centers as fast as possible for inspection.

Now, Philcarreview.com will show you some common car warning lights.

1. Engine oil pressure warning light

If this light is on, it means the vehicle is operating with lack of lubricating oil or even without it. Advice of experienced car professionals in such case is to bring your car to a safe place and shutdown the engine immediately. Continuing driving, the inside parts will be dried by the high speed friction, which will damage the drive shaft and cylinder. Repairing cost for your vehicle will go up significantly.

If this light is on, it means the vehicle is operating with lack of lubricating oil or even without it

2. Engine coolant temperature warning light

This is a sign that motor vehicles are overheating due to lack of cooling water. Park your car in a safe place and run it in idle mode until the temperature drops below the red line, then turn off the engine. Wait for 15 minutes until the engine cools and check the cooling water level.

This is a sign that motor vehicles are overheating due to lack of cooling water

In the case of lack engine coolants, you can top up with refined water. Then, check for any leaks in the cooling water pipes as well. If the problem is not handled promptly, the engine can be too hot, leading to expensive repair bills.

3. Warning light for battery charging

This warning light indicates that the power generating system in the car does not work properly. The above problem may be caused by the alternator failure or damaged cabling. Vehicles can still move using the remaining power, but when electricity runs out, you will be forced to halt.

This warning light indicates that the power generating system in the car does not work properly

4. Brake oil warning light

Excessive brake wear or leaking oil pipe will result in brake fluid shortage. Some signs are easy to see that the brakes feel “softer” than normal, sometimes fail to work completely. However, lower brake pedal is possible due to brake cups that reduce or lose pressure brake oil.

Excessive brake wear or leaking oil pipe will result in brake fluid shortage

5. Tire pressure warning light (if any)

When this light symbol is on, drivers should quickly pull over their vehicles for checking. Unguaranteed tire pressure may cause uneven tire surface (worn on the tire sides due to the vehicle’s heavy weight), leading to more fuel consumption. More seriously, it might cause loss of driving control and unsafe cornering.

When this light symbol is on, drivers should quickly pull over their vehicles for checking

6. Engine warning light

This is a sign that something went wrong inside the engine and driver need visit the repair center for inspection.

Engine warning light

7. Airbag warning light

This light tells us that the airbag control system stopped working and the air bag may not inflate in case of collision.

Airbag warning light

8. ABS warning light (if applicable)

When this light is on, Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is not working, while conventional braking system is on.

When this light is on, ABS is not working

In a nutshell, when you see one of the above warning signs, it's important to calm down so you can handle the situation safely. Then, call for assistance or bring the vehicle to a repair center for further inspection.