Understand Your Engine Warning Lights
Each day we receive enquires regarding what issues the various dashboard warning lights can relate to. Some of these lights can be easily disregarded, but others require a bit more investigation or possible repair by one of our Bosch accredited master technicians. Last thing we want in our busy lives is a visit to the garage when it may not be necessary, but more importantly we don’t wish to be stuck at the side of the motorway if the warning light issue develops into something more problematic, so here is a guide that helps you to better understand what fault, if any, your car maybe suffering from.
Oil Pressure Warning - this light will illuminate when the oil pressure sensor detects low oil pressure, the vehicle’s engine should be switched of immediately to avoid severe engine damage and the oil level checked to ensure correct quantity in the engine. Professional help should be sought if oil level is correct and light continues to show. Amber light’s can also be used in some vehicles to warn when the oil level is getting low and a top up is required.
Battery Warning - This means the vehicle has stopped charging the battery and will eventually go flat. Seek professional help to resolve the issue.
Brake System Alert - this light indicates a low brake fluid level and professional help should be sought to rectify any issues, leaks or low brake linings are a common cause, this light is sometimes used when a vehicle has an ABS fault (see below).
Temperature Warning Light - it warns the driver when the engine is overheating and usually demands the driver to stop the vehicle and seek attention to rectify the fault.
ABS Warning Light - ABS Warning Light - this light will show when you have a fault in the ABS braking system, this will not result in losing your brakes but additional safety features will have been switched of by the control module, professional help should be sought to resolve the issues. Note: The light illuminates briefly on engine start up but switches of automatically.
Engine Management Light - this light illuminates when the vehicle detects a fault with the engine management system usually related to emissions or running concerns. Can cause the vehicle to go into limp home mode when illuminated with a loss of engine power, this light require’s immediate professional attention to prevent damage to expensive exhaust components.
Powertrain Malfunction - this light will illuminate when the engine management system detects a fault that requires the engine to be shut down and requires immediate attention by a qualified technician.
Traction Control Light - this light will illuminate along with the ABS light when the vehicle has a fault in the system. It will also flash when the system is operating to warn the driver of hazardous conditions.
ESP/BAS Light - similar to the ABS indicator, but especially installed to inform the driver about a potential problem with the Electronic Stability Program technology.
Glow Plug Warning - used on Diesel vehicles, no attempt to start the vehicle must be made until the light is extinguished. The light is also used with the engine management light when a fault has been detected.
Warning Light - this light will illuminate with other lights and is usually accompanied by an error message in the display
Tyre Pressure Monitor - consult your owner’s manual and re inflate the tyres to correct pressure, then reset the system to extinguish the light, 32 psi is a good pressure if they are not available.
Bulb Failure - indicates a problem with one or more of the vehicles bulbs. Pop in and we will gladly replace the offending bulb.
Source: claytonsmot.co.uk
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