Automotive warning lights on cars, even the Dodge Charger, sometimes seem to have a mind of their own, blinking to life when everything both sounds and runs as it should. While many of these lights are to inform you as to when your engine needs a tuneup or to tell you that you are low on gas, most of them are there to warn you of a potentially dangerous problem. So which ones should never be ignored? Continue reading to find out!
Temperature Warning Light: If your temperature warning light comes on, pull over and turn off the engine immediately. This light signifies that your car’s engine is overheating. Driving while your engine is overheating could lead to expensive engine damage.
There are a number of reasons why your car’s engine may overheat, including: low coolant level, a stuck thermometer or dirty, clogged radiator.
Low Tire Pressure Warning Light: If any of your car’s tires are 25% or more under inflated, the low tire warning light will be activated. Low tire pressure can be caused by a leak, inaccurate or failing TPMS sensor in tire, or other reason. Driving on a low tire can be dangerous because it increases the risk of a blowout. Low tires can also cause:
- uneven braking
- uneven tire traction
- uneven and rapid tire wear
- increased rolling resistance and fuel consumption
Charging System Warning Light: When the charging system warning light comes on, it means your car’s charging voltage is low. While this does not mean you have to pull over immediately, keep in mind that you will only have 20 to 30 minutes (less if you are driving with your headlights on) before your car’s battery dies. Once this happens, your car’s engine will stop running.
Possible causes for an engaged charging system warning light, include: broken or slipping serpentine belt, bad alternator or loose or corroded battery cables.
Oil Pressure Warning Light: Oil is crucial to the health of your car’s engine, so always be aware if the oil pressure warning light comes on. This warning light signifies that either your car’s engine has lost oil pressure or oil pressure is too low for safe engine operation.
If this light comes on, pull over, shut off the engine and check your oil level via the engine dipstick. Do not attempt to drive if there is no engine oil in your car; this can cause severe engine damage.
There are several causes for the oil pressure automotive warning light to come on, including: low oil level, worn oil pump, defective oil pressure, etc.
For more information on warning lights and their meanings, just ask us! Visit our dealership at 501 State Ave, Emmaus, PA 18049 or check out our website.