Do You Know What Your Warning Lights Mean?
Posted on August 19, 2016 When you start your Honda, no matter which model you drive, you’ll see the warning lights all come on for a second then go off. This is just a bulb check, a mandatory vehicle self-test that happens on every vehicle with modern systems. But if a warning light comes on otherwise… Do you know what your warning lights mean? Do you know the difference between the symbols and colors? Here are a few tips on your warning lights and what they mean to you.
The Color of Warning Lights
This one is pretty straightforward once you realize there’s an order to things. There can be several different colors for the lights, including green, blue, yellow, and red. If the warning light on your dash is red, that’s a pretty important message. It tells you that something crucial isn’t working right and needs attention soon. When a red warning light is on, don’t pass go, don’t collect $200. Get to the dealership sooner rather than later to have it looked after. If your warning light is yellow or amber, the problem requires a close eye but is probably not approaching critical mass. Whatever the warning light, it’s best to pull over and check it out quickly, then make arrangements with the dealership to have it dealt with. If the warning is a different color, it’s just a message or indicator. It isn’t indicating a failure but a status. These shouldn’t raise your heart rate at all.Important Warning Lights to Watch For
Some warning lights are more common and require your attention quickly. Here they are:Oil light
If the little red oil can is illuminated, check your engine oil level right away. It can be an early indicator of impending problems, especially if you keep driving with the light on. Engine light
The amber light shaped like your engine can come on for hundreds of reasons. Because you simply don’t know what it’s telling you, get it diagnosed at the dealership in short order. Tire Pressure Monitor light
The U-shaped amber light with an exclamation point in it tells you there’s a tire pressure outside the set parameters. Check your tire pressures or risk a tire failure from over- or under-inflation.Battery light
If the battery light comes on while you’re driving, it tells you the alternator isn’t charging the battery anymore. It might be a blown belt or electrical issue, but it’s important to have it looked after. Otherwise, you risk your car not starting. Whether you have one of these or any other warning light illuminate on your dashboard, you can rely on the service experts at Jay Wolfe Honda to take care of your car. With friendly, knowledgeable staff and factory-trained technicians, there’s no better place to service your Honda in Kansas City.
