While driving your car, it is important to know what your car dashboard symbols are communicating to you. These symbols may light up at any time while you are driving and may indicate a problem or danger. Understanding these signals becomes paramount, especially as the holiday season approaches and you may be planning a long balik kampung drive or embarking on a road trip.
In case of an emergency, it’s best to respond quickly and pull over your vehicle for your safety. Fortunately, with 400 conveniently located petrol stations across the country, BHPetrol is ready to provide you with assistance while offering the opportunity to earn points and redeem rewards with BHPetrol eCard when you take a break at the station. What’s more, each BHPetrol station is equipped with a public toilet and surau, providing a safe place to assess your situation.
In this blog post, we will discuss 9 must-know car dashboard symbols and how to react to them so that drivers can stay safe and avoid any potential problems that may arise while driving.
Stability Control Light
Photo Credits: Uchanics
Note that the stability control, also known as traction control light will illuminate when the system is active. Pressing the gas pedal when driving in extreme weather, such as heavy rain may trigger this dashboard light, indicating the systems are functioning correctly. However, if these lights come on during moderate-speed driving on dry surfaces, there could be a system issue, possibly linked to a wheel speed sensor. To fix this issue, it’s recommended to immediately pull over and contact a mechanic for help.
Check Engine Light
Photo Credits: Car And Driver
When this light comes on, the potential problem might be as minor as a loose wire, or an improperly fitted gas cap. Alternatively, it could indicate a more significant issue deep within your engine, exhaust, or emission control systems. In situations where you are unable to identify the problems, we would always recommend you stop driving, slowly pull over and check it before continuing to drive.
Battery Warning Light
Photo Credits: Auto Zone
If the battery warning light is on, it indicates that your battery is not receiving proper charging, or there may be potential issues with the vehicle’s wiring, alternator, or other electrical components. It is crucial to turn off all unnecessary electrical systems and pay attention to any unusual sounds or activities in your vehicle.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
Photo Credits: Filtron
The oil pressure warning light indicates that your car’s oil pressure is lower than it should be. Low oil pressure can cause serious engine damage. It is important to pull over to a safe place, turn off your engine, and check your oil level. If it is anything other than full, you should not drive your car and should immediately seek professional technical support.
Brake Warning Light
Photo Credits: Filtron
If this light comes on, it means that your car’s brake system is not working properly. It may be due to low brake fluid levels or worn brake pads. It is important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid any potential accidents.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
Photo Credits: Kalltire
If this symbol lights up, it means that there is a problem with your tire pressure. Driving on underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, lower gas mileage, and can potentially cause a blowout. Make sure you check all of your tires as soon as possible and inflate them to the correct recommended pressure levels.
ABS Warning Light
Photo Credits: Driving Test Tips
If this symbol lights up, it means that there is a problem with your anti-lock braking system. The ABS helps control your car in slippery conditions. It is important to take your car to a mechanic to repair the ABS as soon as possible.
Coolant Warning Light
Photo Credits: CarParts.com
If this light comes on, it means that the coolant temperature in your car is too high. It may be due to a failed or leaking cooling system. It is important to pull over to a safe place, turn off the engine, and wait for your car to cool down before continuing your journey to get technical supports.
Airbag Warning Light
Photo Credits: Driving Test Tips
If this symbol lights up, it means that there is a problem with the airbag system in your car. When this light comes on, it means that your airbags may not deploy in the event of an accident. It is important to take your car to a certified technician for inspection and repair.
Knowing the meaning of these symbols is important for every driver as it can save them from potential accidents and costly repairs. Always remember to react quickly when a symbol lights up on your dashboard and take the necessary steps to get it fixed as soon as possible. If you are unsure of what a symbol means, consult your car manual for more information. Drive safely!
