Carlton Motorcars Inc.

Ten Most Common Dashboard Lights and Icons

Ten Most Common Dashboard Lights and Icons in Greenville, SC

Having a dashboard light come on while you're driving can make you feel nervous, even panicked. Here at Carlton Motorcars Inc., we want to help handle this type of situation with confidence. That's why we've created this list explaining what some of the most common dashboard lights mean. And if you have questions, check your owner's manual or call us.

Warning Lights Vs. Indicator Lights

There are two kinds of lights in your dashboard. Warning lights are urgent and need to be handled right away. Drive carefully if you notice any indicator lights, as these let you know something needs to be repaired or serviced soon. You should always consult your owner's manual if you're unsure what a light's color means or how pressing it is.

So What Do They Mean?

Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light

Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light

This light turns on when your car detects a problem with the engine, and it may cause the system to operate abnormally. You should quickly bring your vehicle in for an inspection.

Coolant Temperature Warning Light

Coolant Temperature Warning Light

It's a warning that the engine temperature is higher than normal. Stop the vehicle and allow the engine to cool down if necessary, then have it inspected immediately.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Your oil level is low when you see this light up. Pull over right away and check your oil level.

Battery/Charging Warning Light

Battery/Charging Warning Light

This light could signal problems with your battery. Faulty wiring or a broken fan belt might be the culprit. Stop and seek professional help as soon as possible.

Door Ajar Indicator Light

Door Ajar Indicator Light

This light means that either a door or the trunk isn't fully closed. Before you continue driving, check that everything is closed securely.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light

Your tire pressure is low if you see this light come on. Adjust the inflation pressure, and the light should turn off after a few minutes.

Brake System Light

Brake System Light

Either the parking brake is on, there is a problem with the braking system, brake fluid is low or there is an ABS problem. Make sure that the parking brake is released and have the brake fluid checked.

Traction Control Indicator Light

Traction Control Indicator Light

This lights up when your vehicle's traction control is in use, letting you know that conditions are slippery.

Security Indicator Light

Security Indicator Light

If this light comes on and there is not a security issue, then there is probably a malfunction in the system.

Cruise Control Indicator Light

Cruise Control Indicator Light

This light means that the cruise control feature is on.

schedule service

If you're still unsure about a light that has come on in your dashboard, come visit Carlton Motorcars Inc. at 2446 Laurens Rd , Greenville, SC 29607 or give us a call today. We look forward to serving customers from Spartanburg, Anderson and the Upstate.