It’s normal for all the lights on your dash to come on when you start your vehicle. If one or more warning lights remain illuminated, you may have an urgent problem. In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving into what your Ford dashboard warnings mean for your vehicle’s health and when you should visit your local Ford dealer for a service appointment.
Understanding Your Ford Dashboard Warnings: A Guide to What They Mean for Your Vehicle’s Health
Master Warning Light
If you see the master warning light, a red triangle with an exclamation point inside it, there is a chance that your vehicle’s health is in jeopardy. However, it could also be an alert that your trunk or door is ajar. Often, the master warning light is accompanied by another warning light on the dashboard.
Charging System
The charging system warning light looks like a car battery. If you see this light come on, pull over in a safe place immediately and have your vehicle towed. This light indicates that your alternator or battery is failing to charge and your vehicle will soon stop running.
Engine Coolant Temperature
It’s important to keep an eye on your engine coolant temperature while you drive. The engine coolant temperature warning light resembles a thermometer, and the color of the warning light gives you a quick picture of your engine coolant temperature. If the warning light is blue, your coolant needs more time to warm up before you start driving. If the light is red, your coolant is too hot.
Engine Oil Warning
You should also periodically check your dash for a light that looks like an oil can. This is the engine oil warning light and often indicates that you have low oil pressure. This can be devastating for your engine health.
When You Should Visit Your Local Ford Dealer for Service
Generally, you should visit your local dealership as soon as possible to have your Ford worked on if the light on your dash is red. If there is an amber light on your dash, you probably need maintenance soon, but it is unlikely that there is an urgent problem.
As a general rule, red warning lights on your dashboard indicate a severe problem for your vehicle’s health. Amber lights usually indicate less serious problems. To discover what exactly is wrong with your vehicle, contact us at Clay Maxey Ford of Harrison in Harrison, AR to schedule a service appointment.
