While today’s vehicles have multiple built-in warning devices, they are only helpful if you know what they mean, and take corrective action when they appear.
A light that comes on in your dashboard is not always bad news. Sometimes, it is just a visual reminder to perform routine maintenance. It can even just mean it is time to air up your tires. The color of the light signifies its level of importance. Amber means it needs to be checked soon, and red light indicates a condition whereby the vehicle may be unsafe to drive, or continued use will cause additional damage. A flashing light also is a higher priority than a steady one.
The most common light you will see is your preventative maintenance indicator. This can take the form of a wrench, or, in most cases, the words maintenance required will appear. Keep in mind this indicator is set on a timer. If the shop that performed your last service forgot to reset it, the light may come on prematurely. You can use your service label on the windshield to verify your last service interval.
With the weather now cooling off, you may see your low tire indicator coming on, especially in the morning. Tire pressure changes about one pound for every six degrees of temperature change. If your tires were inflated to 32 psi when it was 105 degrees, that same tire will read only 26 psi at a temperature of 65 degrees. This is why it is very common for the tire pressure light to come on at this time of year, or some of you may have experienced the light during our last few rainstorms.
The check engine lights can come on for a multitude of reasons. This light also can be in the form of an engine symbol, or sometimes it will say service engine. All three indicate emissions or engine performance concerns. It is common practice to ignore this light when there are no symptoms in conjunction with its appearance. We recommend, at least, having the computer scanned for the failure code, to avoid a more costly repair in the future. If the light is flashing, immediate attention may be required.
You have two brake system lights. The red light comes on when there is an issue with the mechanical portion of your braking system. The ABS light comes on when there is an electronic issue with the braking system. Any brake warning light should be addressed immediately to avoid an unsafe condition. If you believe the brake light is on due to low fluid level, please have the system inspected. This could be a symptom of worn brakes or a leak in the hydraulic system.
Other systems, which commonly use visual indicators, are traction, stability, suspension and airbag controls. Although, most of the time, these are not a high priority, you do need to keep in mind these systems will be inoperative until repairs are made.
H and I Automotive is equipped to assist you with all of your vehicle needs. We are located at 5338 E. Main St., Suite #4 (just east of Higley Road). Please feel free to stop by with any questions, or call us at (480/) 985-9279. Visit online at www.handiautomotive.com and www.facebook.com/pages/H-I–automotive. See our ad in this Up Close newspaper.