What Does the Light on my Dashboard Mean?

One frequently asked question at our service department is “What does the light on my dashboard mean?” There are tons of car dashboard symbols and meanings to explore, and new dashboard warning lights can feel overwhelming to any driver on the Sandwich roads. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the dashboard light meanings beyond the typical engine check and battery charge symbols, so you can drive with greater peace of mind in Mashpee.

Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

So, what does the light on my dashboard mean? Here is a list of some of the dashboard warning lights we see at O'Hara Motors, along with the typical dashboard lights meaning:

Engine Warning Lights:

Coolant Temp Warning – There is a problem with your coolant, whether your levels are off or your fan isn’t working properly. You might even have a leak within the system.

Service Vehicle – You’ll see these dashboard warning lights when there is a problem with your electrical system.

Reduced Power Warning – This indicates a serious issue with your engine, so it’s important to schedule your service immediately.

Cruise Control – If you are using cruise control, your cruise control light will illuminate automatically.

Brake System Warning Lights:

Brake System – There is a problem with your braking system, whether you have low brake fluid or an ABS malfunction.

Traction Control or ESP – If you are using your traction control, your Traction Control light will illuminate automatically.

Safety & Informative Warning Lights:

Security Alert – This indicates a breach in your security, but it could be a matter of a door left open or a locked ignition switch.

Fog Lamp – If you are using your fog lamps, your Fog Lamp light will illuminate automatically.

Airbag Fault – There is an issue with your airbag system that needs to be addressed at the service center.

Washer Fluid Reminder – This means your washer fluid is low and you’ll need to top off your supply – visit our parts department for a refill!

Tires Warning Lights:

Tire Pressure Warning Light– The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) has found one or more tires that are not inflated to the recommended guidelines. This could indicate either over or underinflation.

Schedule Your Service with O'Hara Motors

You’ve read all about typical car dashboard symbols and meanings, but what about your particular vehicle’s unique dashboard lights and their meaning? If you still have questions about your car, about good mileage on a used car, or servicing and maintaining it, feel free to contact us at Falmouth or schedule your appointment online to get your vehicle back in gear! Our talented technicians can diagnose and solve your issue at our state-of-the-art Falmouth facility, so don’t hesitate to reach out in the Bourne area.