Today’s cars are more intelligent than ever, equipped with sophisticated sensors and onboard diagnostics designed to monitor performance and safety. One of the most important ways your car communicates with you is through dashboard warning lights, those small symbols that light up when something isn’t right.
While it can be tempting to ignore them especially if your vehicle seems to be running normally, these warning indicators are designed to alert you before minor issues become major repairs.
Dashboard Warning Lights Matter
Modern vehicles are fitted with dozens of sensors that constantly monitor the engine, brakes, tyres, fluids, and more. When something isn’t quite right, the system triggers a warning light to let you know.
Some warnings are minor, like low washer fluid. Others are serious, like low oil pressure or overheating. Either way, your dashboard is basically your car’s way of saying it needs a bit of attention.
What are the most common dashboard lights?
Check Engine Light
The big one. It looks like a tiny engine and might be steady or flashing. This light can mean anything from a loose fuel cap to a serious engine misfire. If the check-engine light illuminates while you’re driving but everything seems fine, don’t panic but don’t ignore it, either. Get your car to a mechanic promptly for diagnostic testing.
Battery Warning Light
This light looks like a battery with plus and minus signs. It means your battery isn’t charging properly. If the battery light illuminates but the car starts up and drives normally, don’t ignore it as there could be a long-term issue with the battery or potential problems with wiring, the alternator, or other electrical components.
Oil Pressure Warning
A red oil can symbol means low oil pressure. This light could indicate something as simple as an oil top up, but more seriously, it could mean a leak in the engine or worn parts like a blown piston ring or broken oil pump. If adding oil turns the light off, then you’ve fixed the problem. If that doesn’t do the trick however, or the light comes on again shortly after you’ve added oil, get it checked as soon as possible.
Brake System Warning Light
This usually appears as an exclamation mark in a circle or the word ‘BRAKE.’ It could mean the handbrake is on or something more serious, like a brake fluid leak or worn pads. Don’t take chances with your brakes.
Coolant Temperature Warning
This light (often a thermometer symbol) means your engine is overheating. This could be caused by low coolant levels, a broken water pump, a leaking or burst coolant hose, or even damage to the radiator itself. If topping up your coolant doesn’t make a difference to the light, call a professional for help. An overheated car is unsafe and can cause permanent damage to your car.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
This looks like a flat tyre with an exclamation mark. One or more of your tyres could be underinflated. Keeping tyres at the right pressure is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency.
What to Do When a Light Comes On
First things first, don’t panic. Not every warning light means immediate disaster. Here’s a quick checklist:
Is the light red or flashing? That usually signals a serious issue. Pull over and call for assistance.
Is it amber or steady? This means caution. You can usually keep driving, but you should book an inspection soon.
Check your owner’s manual for more specific information on the light and next steps.
Never ignore it even if the car feels fine. Small issues can turn into expensive ones fast.
The best way to avoid surprise warning lights? Regular servicing and inspections.
Dashboard lights are your car’s way of communicating that something’s off, so don’t ignore them. Whether it’s a quick fix or something more complex, getting it sorted early is always the smarter and cheaper move.
If you’ve got a dashboard light on, or just want peace of mind, book a check-up with your local mechanic in Joondalup today.
Car Care Joondalup can run diagnostic scans that check for hidden issues before they trigger dashboard lights. We’ll also keep an eye on your battery, oil, coolant, tyres, and brake systems, all the things your car relies on to stay running smoothly. For air con servicing, log book servicing, or comprehensive car repairs, Joondalup locals rely on us. Call 9300 9796 or book a service online now.