Your vehicle is your prized possession and taking care of it regularly is a priority. However, there are many times that a random warning light pops up on your dashboard and the thought of expensive repairs comes rushing to your mind. However, warning lights in your car are valuable components that help you understand the internal workings of your vehicle.

NOTE: You can bring your car anytime to our auto service shop in Cambridge if you are not sure how to fix the problem. Our professional licensed mechanics can help.

While modern cars have been equipped with umpteen warning lights on their dashboards, certain critical ones must never be ignored. Special Interest Automobiles, expert auto service technicians in Ontario, explain further, so you are never in the dark.

Check engine light

Also known as the malfunction indicator lamp, the check engine light can cause worry and dread in the most expert of drivers. The check engine warning light may turn on for several reasons, both major and minor. These include:
1. Issues with the engine: A primary cause for worry is that the check engine light may indicate something is wrong with the engine system. A control module monitors the engine’s operations through a network of sensors. Therefore, when there is an issue with the engine, the sensors trigger the check engine light.
2. Transmission problems: The function of the transmission is to transfer engine power to the wheels of your vehicle. Any issues with the transmission can lead to increased tailpipe emissions, which, in turn, are detected by the control module, resulting in the check engine light being turned on.
3. Emissions equipment issues: Modern vehicles are equipped with a range of emissions equipment such as the catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation system, and many more. These components play an essential role in reducing tailpipe emissions to safeguard and protect the environment. However, if any emissions equipment is faulty or damaged, the check engine light will turn on.
4. Problems with electronic powertrain controls: Modern cars come with a range of sophisticated modules and sensors that communicate via an extensive data network. Thus, any problems with the wiring, modules, or sensors can trigger the check engine light.
5. Problems in air/fuel delivery: Your vehicle functions when the correct proportions of air and fuel are delivered. However, if this is unbalanced or incorrect, the control module will trigger the check engine light.
6. Ignition system issues: The air/fuel combination mentioned above is fueled by the ignition system, including coil and spark plugs. If any of these are damaged, the check engine light will turn on.

Oil warning light

Oil is essential in the proper lubrication and working of your engine system and other processes such as cleaning and cooling. The three main reasons why your oil warning light has turned on in your vehicle are:
1. Low oil levels: One of the most common reasons for the oil warning light turning on is if your vehicle’s oil level is low. In older cars, oil levels may reduce drastically due to general wear and tear or leaks. After a visible check, if you do not find any spills or leaks, there could be a possibility that the oil is burning away.
2. Clogged oil passages: The oil pump of your vehicle, which can hold 4 to 6 quarts, pressurises and circulates the oil in the system to send it for filtration to remove contaminants. However, if this process is disrupted due to a clogged passage it can switch on the oil warning light.
3. Engine damage: If you are unlucky, your engine may burn excessive amounts of oil due to internal damage. This will switch on the oil warning light and must be immediately rectified to avoid further damage.
To avoid these issues, it is recommended to send your vehicle in for regular servicing and maintenance checks where expert technicians can resolve any damage timeously.

Tire pressure warning light

The TPMS symbol, also known as the tire pressure warning light, indicates that one or more of your tires have been incorrectly inflated, i.e., the pressure may be too high or low. This must be addressed immediately to avoid further damage to the tires and your vehicle.
Ideally, tire pressure should be in the 30 to 35 psi range for the safest driving experience. Did you know there are specific reasons for a drop in tire pressure? Read on to find out what they are:
1. Leaks and splits
2. Tires lose about one pound of air pressure every month
3. One pound of air pressure reduces when the temperature drops by 10 degrees
Most often, manufacturers set the trigger for the switching on of the tire pressure warning light when the overall pressure of the tire has reduced to 75% of the recommended specifications.

Even though you may not know all the warning lights in your car, having a keen understanding of these critical ones can be an excellent way to avoid expensive damages and keep your vehicle in its optimal condition.

Warning lights are meant to bring attention to issues that must not be ignored at any cost. If you are unfamiliar with any of your car’s warning dashboard lights, speaking to a trained mechanic is recommended.

For more information on the warning lights in your car, contact Special Interest Automobiles auto garage in Cambridge today.