A Warning-Light Road Map

Vehicle warning lights inform drivers of situations that could be dangerous and become costly if ignored. Unfortunately, many drivers do not know what some of these warnings mean. Here are explanations for 10 of the most commonly used warning lights. Check your owner’s manual for information on the warning lights in your vehicle. 

First, remember warning lights are color coded. Red warnings indicate problems that require immediate action. Amber warnings also require attention, but action can be delayed. Call to make a service appointment that day. Blue or green lights convey the status of vehicle systems. For example, a blue headlight symbol means the high beams are on; green lights reflect directional signal usage or that systems, such as cruise control, are activated. 

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Red warnings

	The illuminated oil can means that engine oil pressure is too low. Stop as quickly and as safely as possible to check the oil level, since a lack of oil can result in low oil pressure. Do not drive with this light on. Driving with low oil pressure can destroy the engine quickly.
	The battery light indicates an electrical problem. When the electrical system stops working, the car may run until the battery is depleted, then quit and not restart.
	When this thermometer is red, it means the engine is too hot. Continuing to drive can damage or destroy the engine. (When blue, it means the engine is still cold; drive gently.)
	The red airbag symbol means the airbags may not work when needed. In some cases, drivers who ignore this warning have had the airbags deploy unnecessarily.
	An exclamation point in a circle that is inside parentheses means a brake problem. Get it checked at once.
	This light indicates that someone in the car has not buckled up. It can also be triggered if you place heavy items on a passenger seat.

Amber warnings

	This check engine light signifies a problem that adversely affects vehicle emissions. If it stays on, the vehicle could be damaged and fail mandated state inspections.
	This tire cross-section with an exclamation point means one or more tires have low air pressure.
	When illuminated temporarily, the image of a car leaving squiggly tire tracks means stability or traction control has been activated because the driver has tried a maneuver such as turning, braking or accelerating that requires more traction than is available. If it remains on, it could mean that these systems have been turned off or are malfunctioning.
	The lighted ABS symbol means the antilock braking system is no longer able to modulate the brakes in an emergency or on a slippery surface to help you retain control. While your regular brakes should work, the added safety of ABS will not be available.

Warning lights serve a valuable function. They should never be ignored.