If you're like most drivers, those little yellow and red lights that flicker off and on when you start your car are often ignored. However, those warning lights are indicators of a vehicle that is operating normally or one that needs either a minor automotive service or possibly a more extensive automotive repair. Your car's computer runs a check of the operating systems each time you turn on the ignition. If the warning lights go out, the computer has verified that the systems are functioning properly.
However, if a warning light remains on several minutes after the car has been started, or if it comes on while driving, make it a priority to schedule an automotive service. These warning lights are just like traffic signals, color-coordinated according to the severity of the warning.
Yellow Warning Light: "Proceed With Caution!"
On most vehicles, a yellow "Service Engine Soon" light indicates a potential problem. In other words, "proceed with caution." If the light continues to come on after several car starts, it is telling you that you need to schedule an automotive service, or at the very least, read your owner's manual. Typically, if the light comes on while you are driving and then goes off, the computer system was able to correct the problem itself.
A few common problems that may cause the "Service Engine Soon" light to come on can include the following:
- computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors
- anti-lock brake system
- safety restraint systems, such as airbags
- emissions components
Red Warning Light: "Stop!"
A red warning light indicates that you should immediately pull over and turn off the car. Be careful as you maneuver to stop, as whatever caused the light to come on could be a safety issue (i.e., brakes). Unfortunately, the red light is NOT a pre-warning-- the problem is already occurring! Call for road-side assistance immediately for automotive repair to prevent permanent engine damage.
The red warning light indicates 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 at Cannon Auto Repair today by calling 507-263-2120 or go online at https://www.cannonautorepair.com for more information. Our automotive repair shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
If you're like most drivers, those little yellow and red lights that flicker off and on when you start your car are often ignored. However, those warning lights are indicators of a vehicle that is operating normally or one that needs either a minor automotive service or possibly a more extensive automotive repair. Your car's computer runs a check of the operating systems each time you turn on the ignition. If the warning lights go out, the computer has verified that the systems are functioning properly.
However, if a warning light remains on several minutes after the car has been started, or if it comes on while driving, make it a priority to schedule an automotive service. These warning lights are just like traffic signals, color-coordinated according to the severity of the warning.
Yellow Warning Light: "Proceed With Caution!"
On most vehicles, a yellow "Service Engine Soon" light indicates a potential problem. In other words, "proceed with caution." If the light continues to come on after several car starts, it is telling you that you need to schedule an automotive service, or at the very least, read your owner's manual. Typically, if the light comes on while you are driving and then goes off, the computer system was able to correct the problem itself.
A few common problems that may cause the "Service Engine Soon" light to come on can include the following:
- computer-related problems, such as faulty sensors
- anti-lock brake system
- safety restraint systems, such as airbags
- emissions components
Red Warning Light: "Stop!"
A red warning light indicates that you should immediately pull over and turn off the car. Be careful as you maneuver to stop, as whatever caused the light to come on could be a safety issue (i.e., brakes). Unfortunately, the red light is NOT a pre-warning-- the problem is already occurring! Call for road-side assistance immediately for automotive repair to prevent permanent engine damage.
The red warning light indicates 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 at Cannon Auto Repair today by calling 507-263-2120 or go online at https://www.cannonautorepair.com for more information. Our automotive repair shop serves vehicle owners in Cannon Falls, MN, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
