We’ve all seen different lights pop on the dashboard from time to time, but do you pay attention to them? And do you know what they even mean? Let’s take a look at some tips from Jiffy Lube to help you recognize some of the key dashboard warning lights and what they actually mean.
First there’s this one…any guesses?!
That's the battery/charger indicator. This is key as it communicates below-normal voltage or charging levels, which is often times a sign that you need a battery replacement.
In a similar vein, the radiator/coolant temperature light warns of excessive engine temperatures, again, a situation you will want to have checked as quickly as possible.
Then there is the brake system/ABS indicator light. Because your vehicle’s brake system is pretty complicated, what triggers the light might be something such as simple as a burned out tail light or something a bit more complex like an anti-brake systems or “abs” sensor issue.
And, there is the dreaded check engine light. Like the brake system/ABS indicator, the check engine light can have a wide range of triggers. What is important to recognize, however, is the indicator illuminated because a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) occurred. Like the many of the dashboard lights, what ultimately triggers the indicator can vary. You should definitely take your vehicle into a professional to assess.
And, another important dashboard lights is …Oil change! Many newer vehicles have an oil change indicator that pops up when your next oil change is due.
Now, this should not be confused with the oil pressure indicator, which only comes on if you have a below-normal oil pressure – something you’ll need to have checked immediately.
This is just one of the many services Jiffy Lube offers - oil changes, batteries, brakes and belts… the list goes on and on! There are more than 2,000 service center locations across North America, so you’re bound to find one near you. Just head to JiffyLube.com to get started.
Now the next time a light pops up on the dash, you’ll know what to do!
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