Important Dashboard Warning Lights Never to Ignore During Your self-drive Trip

As you embark on long self-drive trips, the rental car goes through the tear and wear, as it is with any machine you use over time. Imagine finally putting the car key in the ignition then turning it on, only to notice a glaring dashboard light telling you something isn’t right. Surprisingly, the Rental car drives and sounds normally but at this point, you need to pay an urgent visit to the auto shop.

Some of the dashboard signs don’t need on-the-spot action while others require urgent attention. Each time you start the vehicle, all the dashboard lights have to show then go off after a few seconds but if they don’t, something isn’t right. The following are the crucial dashboard warning lights that you should never ignore while on the road;

Battery warning light

Also referred as the “charging warning light”, the Battery warning light shouldn’t be ignored and is usually bought by a number of things that include; when the battery isn’t charged to above 13.5 volts, corrosion of battery cable terminals as well as damaged battery plates. Also, when there is an issue with the voltage regulator or alternator, the battery warning light will show. If you notice the light while driving, you might continue driving but once the engine is turned off, the car is likely not to be restarted.

Airbag warning light

The airbag warning light is an easy one to ignore/forget but shouldn’t be taken for granted for a number of reasons. First, you can never know when an accident happens and therefore your chances of surviving the accident are greatly reduced. Sometimes the airbag warning light has a lot to do with your seat belts, another life-saving function hence never risk your safety and that of other passengers during the self-drive trip. Much as repair or replacement of airbags isn’t done at some auto shops, contacting professionals or vehicle manufacturers will help in checking and solving the problem.

The Brake warning light

Car Brakes are some of the top things in life you don’t want to gamble with and therefore if the warning light is indicated, it is important to respond with urgency. When driving, make sure that the emergency brake (or hand brake) is still functioning and if it isn’t, warning lights will clearly show. Warning on A is for the emergency brake while on B is for the hydraulic system that signifies the low level of brake fluid. Whichever the case, don’t ignore and immediately pull over and stop before calling an expert to work on it. Just remember that your safety and that of your passengers come first thus not worth risking.

Engine warning light

The Engine is literally the heartbeat of the safari vehicle and therefore shouldn’t be ignored if you notice a problem. This light indicates several things that include problems with car ignition, emission system, or fuel and for this reason, don’t ignore it because your safety, that of the passengers and other drivers comes first before any appointment or schedules. First, an engine diagnostic test has to be conducted at the nearby auto shop and has to be done as soon as possible. In so doing, you will ensure safety on the road and the car will continue driving stronger and for a longer time than it would have been if you ignored the warning light.

Oil Pressure warning light

When the oil pressure warning light doesn’t go off, it surely means one thing-the oil pressure or level is lower than recommended. Whatever the reason, it is important to immediately pull over and stop driving while you still can. If you continue, not only will you be risking your life but also causing damage to other connected parts that will bring about more costs for repair. As a short term solution, immediately check the oil level on noticing the warning light and if it is below the recommended, fill it up to the normal level. In so doing, the engine will be properly lubricated while you drive to find a long term solution.

Coolant warning light

The Coolant warning light showing red means either the level of coolant is lower than the normal recommended level or better still the engine is overheating. If not solved, you might cause more damage to the vehicle or worse still bring about serious accidents. The engine might end up seizing up, cracking and suddenly stopping while you are still driving. Therefore if you notice this, pull over, stop and turn off the car to allow its engine cool.