Warning Light! Part 1
Motorists should be prepared to react whenever one of their cars’ warning lights flashes on to stay safe and avoid expensive repairs. Here’s what to do when the following are illuminated (we’ll dive into even more next week):
Air Bags
What it looks like: A seated stick figure with a round symbol at the abdomen.
What it means: One or more of the car’s air bags is defective or has come disconnected and may not deploy in case of a collision.
What to do: Have the air bags checked out by a technician as soon as possible.
Check Engine
What it looks like: An engine symbol and/or the words “CHECK ENGINE.”
What it means: Typically, there’s a problem affecting the vehicle’s emissions system. This could be something as minor as the fuel filler cap missing or not replaced properly, or a more significant issue, like a failed oxygen sensor or vacuum hose leaks, that can adversely affects a car’s performance and/or fuel economy.
What to do: If the light comes on and stays on, make an appointment with a technician in the near future to have the problem evaluated. If the light flashes it indicates that the car’s catalytic converter is overheating; drive the vehicle to a technician immediately to avoid an engine fire and/or costly emissions system repairs.
Electrical System
What it looks like: A car battery or the word “ALT” or “GEN.”
What it means: The car’s alternator is no longer sending electrical power to the charging system.
What to do: Turn off the climate control, radio and any other accessories (the exception here would be to keep your headlamps on at night for safety’s sake). Immediately head for a service facility or home of you’re a short distance away; at the least find a safe place to park the car until assistance arrives - you’ll likely have at least 15 minutes of driving with all accessories off before the car’s battery discharges and the car stops running. Call for assistance and have a technician check the car’s electrical system. The problem could be a faulty alternator, a loose or broken alternator belt, or other system failure.
Oil Pressure
What it looks like: An oil can or the word “OIL.”
What it means: A potentially calamitous drop in oil pressure due to a malfunctioning oil pump, low oil level or other issues.
What to do: Pull off the road as soon as it’s safe to do so, turn off the engine and call for assistance. Don’t drive any further than necessary to avoid serious engine damage.