8001 Minnetonka Blvd.

952.931.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

6407 West Lake Street

952.922.9696

Mon-Thu: 7am -6pm
Friday: 7am – 5pm

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What the Warning Lights can mean

by | May 19, 2017 | Car Care Tips, Check Engine Light, General Car Maintenance, Vehicle Safety Inspections

 

Part of keeping the vehicle in the best condition possible is to be aware of any issues. One sign that the vehicle might have developed a problem is any warning lights that illuminate on the dashboard. If one comes on, it is important to bring the vehicle in as soon as possible. This can help to prevent further issues from occurring. If the warning lights start to blink, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so. This can help to prevent a series issue from forming. It can also reduce the chance of a costly repair bill because the parts will start to wear with one another.

 

 

 

 

 

One of the more difficult lights to locate an issue for is the check engine light. This is connected to sensors all over the vehicle. It includes the engine, fuel, and emissions systems as well. When the light illuminates, it could mean one of several things. The first thing you should check is the gas cap. Most vehicles have a pressurized fuel system and vapor recovery loop. If you do not twist the gas cap until it clicks, the fuel system is not sealed. This will not allow it to pressurize and result in the light coming on.

 

 

The service engine light may illuminate, as you are getting closer to a regular maintenance inspection. This can indicate when the engine temperatures, oil temperatures, or air temperatures are less than ideal. It can also come on when it is time for an oil change. This can help to remind you of regular oil changes.

 

 

The light that looks like a battery could mean that the electrical charging system is no longer working properly. If the alternator becomes faulty, it will not be able to run efficiently. The same is true for if the drive belt snaps. If the light comes on, the longer you drive, the more battery power will be used up. Eventually, the engine will die. To help prevent an issue, make sure to go to regularly schedule maintenances.

 

 

When the brake warning light comes on, it is an indication that there is something wrong with the braking system. Make sure to check the owner’s manual of the vehicle to find out the meaning. You can also bring the vehicle in and we can inspect it for you. This is because the brake warning light can serve for multiple issues. If the light comes on, notice any smell of burning brake dust. Bring the vehicle in as soon as possible to help prevent a further issue.