DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS



dashboard with lights on
With so many sensors and dashboard lights in modern vehicles, it’s important to know some basics. Here are some of the more common symbols which can alert you to potential problems before they become troublesome and costly, as well as related products and services offered by O’Reilly Auto Parts.
check engine icon battery icon coolant icon transmission icon
oil pressure icon service icon low tire pressure icon brake system icon
abs icon low brake fluid icon low brake pad icon gas cap icon
security system icon lamp out icon stability control fault icon air bag icon
washer fluid reminder icon engine start fault icon DPF Light (Diesel) icon DEF Light (Diesel) icon
Water in fuel icon
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Check Engine

There are literally hundreds of reasons this light can come on. Your local O'Reilly Auto Parts store offers Free Check Engine Light scanning. Stop by and let one of our Parts Professionals help diagnose the problem for you. Find My Store

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Battery/Charging Alert

In almost every case, you have either a bad battery or a failing alternator. Either way, your vehicle is about to die. O'Reilly Auto Parts will test your battery and/or alternator for free and help you find the perfect replacement.

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Coolant Temp Warning

Your engine is overheating; stop driving and turn your vehicle off. Check your coolant level, make sure your fan(s) are working and the radiator cap is holding pressure. Do not drive the vehicle until you have a fix in place.

Learn the basics on Cooling System malfunctions and maintenance.

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Transmission Temperature

Your transmission fluid is too hot, and there is a risk of transmission failure. Check transmission fluid and coolant levels. Do not drive the vehicle until the cause of the overheating has been addressed.

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Oil Pressure Warning

Your oil pressure is low, and the level needs to be checked. If oil level is normal, the engine requires service. Do not start, run or drive until required service has been performed.

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Service Vehicle Soon

In most cases, your car is in need of routine maintenance, such as an oil change.

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TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

You have one or more tires with low pressure, or a sensor that needs replaced. Check your tire pressure to determine whether air needs to be added or the vehicle needs a new TPMS sensor.

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Brake System

You likely have either low brake fluid or a failure in brake components. Check your brake fluid level; also, make sure your parking brake is fully released. Do not drive until issues have been addressed.

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ABS Light

Your Antilock Braking System is malfunctioning and requires service.

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Low Brake Fluid Indicator

Your brake fluid is low; check the fluid level and add the appropriate amount, or take your vehicle in for service. You could have a leak or worn pads.

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Low Brake Pad Warning Indicator

Your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced before your rotors are affected.

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Gas Cap

Chances are, your gas cap is just loose, but it could be missing. Your Check Engine light may come on soon if you don't remedy the issue.

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Security System Indicator

The ignition switch is locked and requires the proper transponder-equipped key to start. If lit steadily while the vehicle is on, the security system may be malfunctioning.

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Lamp Out

You have a headlight that is burned out or malfunctioning.

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Stability Control Fault Indicator

When lit or flashing for an extended period, there is a fault in your vehicle's stability control. Drive with caution until you can have the system serviced.

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Airbag Fault

There is an issue with one of your airbags that requires service.

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Washer Fluid Reminder

Fill your windshield washer fluid reservoir as soon as possible.

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Engine Start System Fault Indicator

Your electrical system (possibly your starter) is faulty; stop by and let one of our Parts Professionals test your starter for free.

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DPF Light (Diesel)

This light indicates that the diesel particulate filter requires service so that engine power is not lost.

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DEF Light (Diesel)

This light indicates that the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is low and needs to be topped off.

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Water in Fuel Indicator (Diesel)

This light indicates that the separator (that removes water from the fuel) requires service.