You slide into your vehicle after a long day at work, eager to get home, kick off your shoes and take it easy, when you see it. One of the warning lights on your instrument panel is shining bright, indicating that all is not well with your vehicle. Ugh!

The instrument panels on most vehicles consist of a variety of red and yellow lights that let drivers know when there is a problem with their vehicle. Some lights are more cause for concern than others. Here is a brief description of the warning lights you might see on your vehicle and what you should do in the event they occur.

Service engine soon

This light may also be labeled “Check Engine” and can be triggered by any number of problems from a loose gas cap to a legitimate issue with the engine. As long as your vehicle drives fine, there is no reason for you to panic. You should have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.

Air bag readiness

This light indicates there is a problem with your air bags and you need to have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Don’t ignore the warning and take a chance on air bag failure in an accident.

Anti-lock or ABS

This light indicates the anti-lock feature on your brakes has been disabled and you should have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Your brakes will continue to work, but if you get into a situation where you have to brake hard, the wheels could lock up.

Engine oil

This light indicates the oil pressure is low and you need to have your vehicle serviced immediately. Don’t ignore the warning and continue to drive your vehicle, or you could risk extensive damage to the engine.

Low engine coolant

This light indicates the engine coolant is low and you should address the problem right away. Shut off your vehicle, wait for the engine to cool and then check the coolant level. Add some if needed. The light may go off. If it doesn’t, you should have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.

Engine coolant temperature

This light indicates the temperature of the engine is beyond the safe maximum and you should have your vehicle serviced immediately. Don’t ignore the warning and continue to drive your vehicle, or you could risk extensive damage to the engine.

Battery voltage

This light indicates the battery is no longer being charged and you should address the problem right away. You have about 20 minutes of driving left before your vehicle shuts down completely, so you should turn off all unnecessary electrical accessories and have the battery checked. You may just need a new battery, or you could be experiencing some other problem with your electrical system.

Warning lights can come on at any moment when you are driving. Take them seriously, and if you don’t know what one means, consult your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Of all of the warning lights, the ones monitoring the engine oil, engine coolant and battery are the most serious. You should take prompt action the moment these occur to prevent breaking down on the side of the road and damaging your vehicle.

Copy the Story Link