Chevy Warning Lights Guide

Chevrolet vehicles are known for their consistent performance and exceptional reliability. However, like other vehicles, they can experience various problems as they age and sustain more wear and tear. Fortunately, some car problems are easy to detect, as they may cause certain warning lights in your dashboard to illuminate. Knowing what these lights mean is essential so you can service or repair your vehicle promptly and prevent major problems. Let’s find out more about Chevrolet warning lights and what they signify.

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Check Engine Light

Unlike most other Chevy warning lights, the check engine light is like a catch-all light that covers a wide range of problems. When you see this light come on, it can mean anything from an improperly tightened gas cap to a bad catalytic converter. If the reason isn’t a loose gas cap, it usually requires professional attention. In this case, you should immediately take your vehicle to your local Chevrolet service center for a diagnosis.

Service Reminder Indicator

Depending on which Chevrolet model you own, the service reminder indicator can be a car with a wrench or the word “Service.” The purpose of this light is to let you know that your vehicle is due for maintenance. It’s nothing to worry about, as it doesn’t indicate any present danger. If you want to keep your car in tip-top condition, you shouldn’t wait to schedule a service appointment.

Oil Warning Light

See the light that resembles a genie’s lamp? That’s the oil warning light. This light reminds you that it’s time to change your engine oil. Getting an oil change is one of the most crucial maintenance tasks, as it ensures that your engine has the lubrication it needs to run smoothly and efficiently. So set some time aside to fulfill your pride and joy’s wish for fresh, new oil.

Engine Temperature Warning

If your engine is having trouble staying cool, you’ll notice two symbols pop up on your Chevy’s dashboard. One of them looks like a thermometer, while the other simply states “Hot Coolant Temp.” An overheated engine is dangerous, so pull over immediately if you see this warning light.

Once you’ve stopped your vehicle, switch off the engine and let it cool down before starting it again. You can speed up the cooling process by turning the heater on full blast to remove some heat from the engine. Low coolant is a common cause of engine overheating, so make sure to check your coolant levels after the radiator has cooled down.

Battery Alert Light

When the battery light turns on, it’s an indication that your vehicle’s battery is nearing the end of its life. It’s also possible that a bad alternator is letting down your battery. Regardless of the reason, it’s essential to address the problem immediately so you aren’t at risk of getting stranded. When you see this alert, go to a service center for a battery inspection. If you have a dying battery, you should get a new one to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Brake Warning Light

The brake warning light in your dashboard is the red circle with an exclamation mark inside. It most often lights up to let you know that your parking brake is engaged. However, if it doesn’t go off after you’ve released the parking brake, it can point to various issues, including worn brake pads, low brake fluid levels, hydraulic problems, or a malfunctioning antilock braking system. All these brake issues can jeopardize your safety on the road, so you shouldn’t ignore them. Visit a service center for brake repair as soon as possible.

Low Fuel Indicator

The gasoline pump icon in your dashboard is the low fuel indicator, and it’s one of the warning lights that come on most often. It simply means that your Chevy vehicle is running low on fuel, so you need to go to the gas station to fill it up.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light

The tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light resembles a horseshoe with an exclamation mark inside. It illuminates when the TPMS detects low pressure in at least one of your tires. Use a pressure gauge to check the pressure in each tire, and add air as needed. Once you’ve properly inflated all your tires, the warning light should go off soon after you start driving.

Electronic Stability Control or Slip Indicator

You may have wondered what the dashboard symbol with a car and two curved lines means. That’s the electronic stability control or slip indicator, and its purpose is to tell you that you’re driving on a slippery surface and that the traction control system has been activated. When the light turns off, it means that your vehicle is no longer in unstable conditions and doesn’t need an extra level of caution.

Headlight Out Indicator

The headlight out indicator can be described as an exclamation mark contained within a sun. This warning light pops up when one or both of your headlight bulbs are burned out or faulty. Headlights that aren’t working properly can make you more prone to accidents, as they reduce your visibility and make it harder for other drivers to see you at night. When they aren’t working properly, they may also get you pulled over and slapped with a pricey ticket. As such, you should try to get your headlight bulbs replaced as soon as possible.

Get Chevrolet Service You Can Trust at Jack Burford Chevrolet

Now that you have a better understanding of Chevy dashboard symbols and what they signify, you can identify many problems your vehicle may encounter. If you need high-quality Chevy auto services in Richmond, Kentucky, take your vehicle to Jack Burford Chevrolet. With a state-of-the-art service facility and a devoted team of factory-certified technicians, we can diagnose and fix any car problems with utmost precision and efficiency. At our Richmond dealership, you’ll also find a parts center stocked with original equipment manufacturer Chevy parts that provide a perfect fit and maximum performance. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.