Steady dashboard warning lights might seem harmless, but they often signal serious issues, especially when they show up in newer vehicles. These warnings are one of the most common signs of new car issues that shouldn't be ignored. When a light won’t turn off, understanding what each symbol means can help you avoid expensive repairs, or worse, a breakdown on the side of the road.
What Do Common Dashboard Warning Lights Mean? Even brand-new cars can trigger dashboard alerts. These lights are part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system and are designed to warn you about safety issues, mechanical failures, or upcoming maintenance. Below is a list of common warning lights, what they mean, and what to do when they appear.
Check Engine Light What it means: This light typically indicates a problem within the engine or emissions system. It could be something minor, like a loose gas cap, or more serious, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, catalytic converter failure, or misfiring cylinder.What happens if you ignore it: While your car may continue to drive normally at first, ignoring this light can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and eventually severe engine damage.What to do: Start by checking and tightening the gas cap. If the light remains on, schedule a diagnostic scan to read the fault codes. Addressing the problem early can save you from major repairs later.
Transmission Warning Light What it means : Alerts you to overheating, slipping, torque converter problems, or internal transmission faults.What happens if you ignore it : Can lead to total transmission failure and may leave your vehicle stuck in gear or unable to move.What to do : If the light comes on while driving, pull over safely and let the vehicle cool. Then, schedule immediate service to diagnose and address the issue.
Traction Control Light What it means : Signals a malfunction in the electronic stability control system, which helps prevent skidding or loss of control.What happens if you ignore it : Your vehicle may not respond properly during sharp turns, on wet roads, or in emergency maneuvers.What to do : Have a technician inspect the system, common causes include faulty wheel speed sensors or control module issues.
Battery/Charging System Warning Light What it means : Your car’s battery isn’t charging properly. Common causes include a failing alternator, worn-out battery, corroded terminals, or a loose serpentine belt.What happens if you ignore it : You could lose electrical power while driving or find yourself stranded with a dead battery.What to do : Limit use of electrical accessories, then have your alternator, battery, and connections tested immediately. Replace any failing components to restore proper charging function.
Oil Pressure Warning Light What it means : The engine isn’t getting enough oil flow to properly lubricate its moving parts.What happens if you ignore it : Driving with low oil pressure can cause catastrophic engine damage, including complete engine failure due to friction and overheating.What to do : Pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Check your oil level and add oil if it’s low. If the oil level is fine, do not restart the engine until a technician inspects the oil pump or pressure sensor.
Engine Temperature Warning Light What it means : Your engine is overheating or the coolant level is too low to maintain safe temperatures.What happens if you ignore it : Persistent overheating can warp engine components, blow head gaskets, and result in engine failure.What to do : Stop the vehicle and allow the engine to cool for 15–20 minutes. Check the coolant reservoir and refill if necessary. If the coolant level is adequate, you may be dealing with a failing thermostat, water pump, or radiator blockage.
Brake System Warning Light What it means : May indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a more serious issue with the hydraulic braking system.What happens if you ignore it : You could experience reduced braking power, longer stopping distances, or total brake failureWhat to do : If your brake pedal feels soft or sinks to the floor, stop driving immediately and call for assistance. Otherwise, check your brake fluid and top it off if needed. A professional should inspect your brake system right away.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light What it means : One or more tires are under-inflated, reducing vehicle stability and fuel economy.What happens if you ignore it : Driving on low-pressure tires increases the risk of blowouts, uneven tire wear, and reduced traction, especially dangerous at highway speeds or in poor weather.What to do : Use a tire gauge to check pressure in all four tires and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, typically listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door. If a tire continues to lose air, check for a slow leak or puncture.
Airbag/SRS Warning Light What it means : A fault has been detected in the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which controls your airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners.What happens if you ignore it : Your airbags may not deploy in a collision, or worse, they could deploy improperly, putting you and your passengers at risk.What to do : Have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician as soon as possible. Airbag systems are complex and should not be serviced without the proper equipment.
Understanding Dashboard Light Colors Not all lights require the same level of concern. The color of a warning light often tells you how urgent the issue is:
Green or Blue Lights What they mean : These are purely informational. They indicate that a system is active and working as intended, such as your high beams, cruise control, or headlights.What to do : Nothing! These lights are just confirmations, not warnings. No need to worry.
Yellow or Orange Lights What they mean : These lights are cautionary. They’re your car’s way of saying, “Something needs attention soon.” You may see these lights for things like low engine coolant, tire pressure changes, or engine diagnostics.What to do : Don’t panic, but don’t ignore them either. Schedule a service appointment soon and monitor the vehicle for any worsening symptoms.
Red Lights What they mean : These lights indicate a potentially serious or immediate issue. It could be a safety system failure, low engine oil pressure, brake malfunction, or even overheating.What to do : Stop the car as soon as it’s safe to do so. Continuing to drive with a red warning light on can lead to major damage, or compromise your safety. Always investigate and address red warnings immediately.
Why Warning Lights Might Stay On Sometimes a light remains on even after service. Common reasons include:
The root issue wasn’t fully resolved A faulty sensor is still sending signals The car’s system wasn’t reset after the repair Multiple issues are affecting the same system
If you’ve returned to the dealership more than once and the light keeps coming back, it could point to a deeper defect, especially in newer vehicles.
A Note on Dashboard Symbol Variations Your vehicle’s dashboard can display over 100 different symbols, and the exact design or meaning may vary between makes and models. If you're ever unsure, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual, it’s the most accurate source for your car.
Use the guide below for a broad understanding, but remember: every vehicle is different, and symbols may look or behave differently depending on your model.
When It Could Be a Lemon If your dashboard warning lights won't go away, even after service, your car may qualify as a lemon under Texas law. You may be entitled to compensation for repeated failed repairs. Generally a car qualifies as a lemon when:
It has been out of service (or in the shop) for 30+ days due to repairs for the same problem/defect It has had three or more repairs under warranty for the same issue The defect is raising significant concerns of safety, use or value of your vehicle
If you suspect your car might be a lemon, consult our guide page to find out if you qualify.
Take Action Before It's Too Late A dashboard warning light that won’t turn off could be the first sign of a serious and recurring defect. The longer the issue persists, the more difficult and costly it may become to fix. If you’re constantly dealing with unresolved alerts or repeated trips to the dealership, don’t wait until you’re stranded on the side of the road.
At The Lemon Lawyers , we specialize in helping Texas drivers stand up to manufacturers. With years of experience and a deep commitment to consumer protection, we can help you determine whether your vehicle qualifies under Texas lemon law and guide you through the process of seeking compensation or a replacement. Start your free case evaluation today and take the first step toward a safer, more reliable ride.
