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Car Maintenance V; Warning Lights

Modern cars have sensors and warning systems that notify you of any problems. These notifications are mostly relayed through visible warning lights on the dashboard.
It is therefore important to know these lights and their various meanings. Some of them are;


Check Engine Light



This indicates a problem with the motor (engine) or related components which are monitored by the CPU/ECM (brainbox) OBD-II interface. There are more than 4000 OBD-II codes with different meanings. If this light comes on, visit a technician with an OBD-II scanning machine to read the error and get possible solutions.


Service Engine Light



This light comes on to remind you of scheduled maintenance. Some variants may be "service", "maint reqd", "service engine". 

Electrical Fault Light



This stays on after the car's start-up self-test. It means the electrical charging system has issues for further assessment. The most common culprit is the alternator and the alternator fuse.

Brake warning light


This could light up for a variety of reasons. They include engaged parking brakes, low brake fluid, worn-out brake pads or a bad wheel speed sensor.

ABS warning light


This is often overlooked or misunderstood to mean the system is functioning. The ABS light should go off, a few moments after the car is started when the car's self-test is concluded. If it remains on, the ABS system is not working. The ABS system is critical to the stability and control of the car in sudden stop situations. Please go to the nearest technician immediately.

Coolant Warning light/Temperature Warning Light


Your engine is overheating. Stop immediately. Open your bonnet and allow it to cool down. An added trick is to turn on the car's air-conditioning system (HVAC) and turn to full heat (use only on good batteries).
Do not attempt to open the radiator cap, you may get burned by the hot fluid under high pressures. Fill up back with coolant when the engine has cooled down. Look out for hose leaks and blockages, check the fan as well. Drive to the nearest mechanic.

Oil Warning Light

This light indicates low oil pressure levels. Do not attempt to use the engine when this light is on. It could lead to expensive damages.
The low-pressure levels could be caused by low oil levels, oil pump failure, a faulty pressure sensor or a filter or strainer blockage.



viii. Washer Fluid Light



This indicates a low level of washer fluid. refer to the service manual for the appropriate refill instructions.

If any of these lights come up in your car, please refer to your service manual and visit the technician for further details. Please do not ignore these warnings. You may reach out to us for assistance.

Cheers!

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