![]() Regulation Īutomotive tell-tales are regulated by automobile safety standards worldwide. The Hudson automobile company was the first to use lights instead of gauges for oil pressure and the voltmeter, starting in the mid-1930s. Such early detection of problems with, for example, engine temperature or oil pressure or charging system operation is not possible via an idiot light, which lights only when a fault has already occurred – thus providing no advance warnings or details of the malfunction's extent. The " idiot light" terminology arises from popular frustration with automakers' use of lights for crucial functions which could previously be monitored by gauges, so a troublesome condition could be detected and corrected early. In this guide, we explain some of the most common and important dashboard warning lights you might come across in your car.A tell-tale, sometimes called an idiot light or warning light, is an indicator of malfunction or operation of a system, indicated by a binary (on/off) illuminated light, symbol or text legend. Their location on or around the dashboard can vary, however, and we’d still recommend looking at your car’s handbook to double-check what they mean. Most car warning lights are universal for all makes and models of cars, making them easier to recognise for any driver. ![]() Pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so and wait for assistance to sort the issue before you continue your journey in these instances. ![]() It goes without saying that much more serious issues, such as problems relating to the brakes, engine, oil or gearbox should be acknowledged as soon as possible, as a major mechanical failure whilst driving could even put your life at risk. This is usually amber in colour, and although it’s not a serious mechanical fault, you shouldn’t ignore it – if something were to get on the windscreen and obscure your view of the road, it could be dangerous if you’re unable to wash it off quickly. One of the less urgent and easy-to-fix warnings that could flash up is the low windscreen washer fluid warning light. There is of course good reason to put a warning light on the dashboard even for an issue that’s seemingly harmless. In modern hybrid and electric cars, a lack of engine noise means it’s often necessary to include a warning light telling you your car is on and ready to set off. Some warning lights are used to draw your attention to something less serious, such as a door that’s not been closed properly or to let you know you’ll soon need to fill up with fuel. It’s best to stop as soon as it’s safe to do so, turn the engine off, then check the car’s manual for advice before continuing on with your journey. Blue and green warning lights are usually the least urgent, while amber or red warning lights are more serious problems – ignore these and the issue could get worse and end up causing more damage to your car. Smoke from exhaust: what does exhaust smoke mean?Ĭar dashboard warning lights are colour coded depending on their urgency. Most, if not all, of your dashboard warning lights should illuminate briefly as you turn the car on so you can check they are working, but most should disappear after a few seconds once the engine is running. While some dashboard warning lights can point out a potentially urgent issue, such as the engine management light, engine temperature warning light or oil pressure warning light, not every light denotes a serious mechanical problem. ![]() Many motorists are familiar with the sinking feeling when a warning light pops up on the dashboard, and it can be even worse if you don’t know what the light means. ![]()
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