Dashboard & Check Engine Light Diagnostics

What Does the Check Engine Light Indicate?

The check engine light can indicate several things, from large problems that need to be addressed in a professional mechanic to small things that you can do to resolve the issue. On the minor side, sometimes the check engine light will illuminate if the gas cap is loose on your vehicle.

However, it can be indicative of more serious problems, like with the oxygen sensor, ignition coils, coolant temperature, or even the transmission temperature. One of the most common culprits of an illuminated check engine light is when something is wrong with the catalytic converter.

If your check engine light comes on, we suggest immediately scheduling an appointment with your local shop in the GreatWater network for a diagnostic check today.

Common Dashboard Warning Lights Explained

Dashboard lights are one of the most important ways that your vehicle communicates with you. It essentially indicates that there's some problem or irregularity with your vehicle that needs to be addressed.

You can also learn a lot about the severity of a dashboard light by what color it is. Lights that are either green or blue typically indicate that your vehicle is performing fine, but that some system is engaged (i.e., cruise control). Yellow or orange dash lights indicate that a part of your vehicle needs attention. Red or flashing red lights indicate a serious safety or component issue that requires immediate attention.

Some of the common dashboard warning lights include:

• Tire pressure warning light (yellow), which looks like a flat tire with an exclamation point in the middle.
• Low engine oil (red), indicated by an oil can.
• Temperature warning light (red), indicated by a thermometer with lines underneath it.
• Battery warning light (red), which looks like a battery.
• Low fuel (yellow), which looks like a gas pump.
• Traction control light (orange), indicated by a vehicle swerving.
• Fog lights on (blue), indicated by a headlamp.

Avoid Costly Repairs with Early Detection

The best way to avoid expensive repairs is to be proactive with your vehicle maintenance. If a dashboard light comes on, it's important to address any issues promptly so that small problems don't snowball into big, expensive ones. This is especially true when your check engine light comes on. Not addressing the underlying issue quickly could cause it to worsen, leading to more expensive repairs and other performance issues in the end.

If your check engine light comes on, make sure to have a diagnostic check done. If other dashboard lights come on signaling issues that need to be addressed, make sure they're serviced.