You have probably noticed those little yellow and red lights that flicker on and off each time you turn on the ignition. That is a sign that your car's computer is running a check of the operating systems. If the dash warnings lights go out, the computer has verified that the systems are functioning properly. The lights act as indicators of whether your vehicle is operating normally, that it needs a minor automotive service, or that a more extensive automotive repair is required.
Be sure to schedule an automotive service as soon as possible if an indicator light remains on several minutes after the car has started, or if it comes on while driving. Just like traffic signals, these warning lights are color-coordinated according to the severity of the warning (i.e., yellow is caution and red is serious).
Yellow means "Proceed with Caution" --
On most vehicles, a yellow "Service Engine Soon" light is alerting you to a potential problem. The computer system is capable of correcting some minor abnormalities, but if the light continues to come on after several car starts, consult your automotive repair technician or your owner's manual for the recommended service. Typically, if the light comes on and then goes off, the computer system was able to correct the problem itself.
The "Service Engine Soon" light may come on for some of the more common issues listed below:
- computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors
- anti-lock brake system
- safety restraint systems, such as air bags
- emissions components
Red means "Stop" --
A red warning light indicates that you should immediately pull over and turn off the car. Unfortunately, the red light is NOT a pre-warning--the problem is already occurring! It can be a matter of seconds before permanent engine damage occurs. Call for road-side assistance as you may need to be towed to an automotive repair shop.
The red warning light will come on for more severe problems, such as:
- low oil pressure
- engine over-heating
- failing brakes
- transmission over-heating
- battery voltage too low
For professional automotive service, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our automotive repair shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
You have probably noticed those little yellow and red lights that flicker on and off each time you turn on the ignition. That is a sign that your car's computer is running a check of the operating systems. If the dash warnings lights go out, the computer has verified that the systems are functioning properly. The lights act as indicators of whether your vehicle is operating normally, that it needs a minor automotive service, or that a more extensive automotive repair is required.
Be sure to schedule an automotive service as soon as possible if an indicator light remains on several minutes after the car has started, or if it comes on while driving. Just like traffic signals, these warning lights are color-coordinated according to the severity of the warning (i.e., yellow is caution and red is serious).
Yellow means "Proceed with Caution" --
On most vehicles, a yellow "Service Engine Soon" light is alerting you to a potential problem. The computer system is capable of correcting some minor abnormalities, but if the light continues to come on after several car starts, consult your automotive repair technician or your owner's manual for the recommended service. Typically, if the light comes on and then goes off, the computer system was able to correct the problem itself.
The "Service Engine Soon" light may come on for some of the more common issues listed below:
- computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors
- anti-lock brake system
- safety restraint systems, such as air bags
- emissions components
Red means "Stop" --
A red warning light indicates that you should immediately pull over and turn off the car. Unfortunately, the red light is NOT a pre-warning--the problem is already occurring! It can be a matter of seconds before permanent engine damage occurs. Call for road-side assistance as you may need to be towed to an automotive repair shop.
The red warning light will come on for more severe problems, such as:
- low oil pressure
- engine over-heating
- failing brakes
- transmission over-heating
- battery voltage too low
For professional automotive service, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Care Auto by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our automotive repair shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
