What Does the Light On My Dashboard Mean?

No vehicle can run perfectly all the time, and chances are you’ve seen one or two warning lights on your dashboard over the course of your Southlake rides. If you’re asking yourself, “what does the light on my dashboard mean,” you’re not alone! This is one of the most common questions that our service team gets at Momentum Alfa Romeo, so we’ve put together a guide outlining the most common warning lights you’ll see on your dashboard, as well as what they mean. 

Dashboard Warning Lights & Their Meanings

There are a wide range of common lights you’ll see on your dashboard. Some of them are simple status lights to inform you if something is on, like the headlights or fog lights. Others are specifically designed to warn you of a problem or remind you if you need to repair something. Here are the most common lights and their meanings:

Engine Warning Lights

• Coolant Temp Warning: This light illuminates when there’s something wrong with your coolant levels (possibly indicating a leak).
• Service Vehicle: You’ll see this light come on if there’s an electrical issue with your car that needs fixing. If so, book a service appointment at our dealership near Keller.
• Reduced Power Warning: If you see this light, get to a service center as soon as possible to have your engine checked out, as it usually means there’s a malfunction.

Brake System Warning Lights

• Brake System: As the name suggests, this light means that there’s a problem with your brakes, such as low fluid levels or a problem with your anti-lock braking system (ABS).
• Traction Control or ESP: If you see this light, it means your vehicle’s electronic stability system is in use.

Safety & Informative Warning Lights 

• Security Alert: This light means that you’ve left a door ajar or your ignition switch is locked.
• Fog Lamp: This light illuminates when you turn your brights on.
• Airbag Fault: If there’s a problem with your vehicle’s airbags, this light will illuminate and you should make a service appointment right away.
• Washer Fluid Reminder: When you see this light, refill your windshield washer fluid.
• Cruise Control: This light will illuminate and stay lit as long as you are using your vehicle’s cruise control.

Tire Warning Lights

• Tire Pressure Warning Light: If there’s an issue with your tire pressure rating, such as being overfilled or underfilled, your TPMS will detect it and alert you with this light.

Keep Your Car In Top Condition at Momentum Alfa Romeo

If you have any questions about dashboard warning lights, feel free to contact our office! You can also schedule a service appointment if one of the above lights has illuminated. We’ll take care of everything and get you back on the Dallas roads in no time!