What Parents Should Know About Vehicle Warning Lights

You hand your teen the keys and remind them to drive safely. A few days later, they call and say, "A light came on, but the car still drives fine."

It happens more often than you think. While some warning lights are not an emergency, none of them should be ignored. Your vehicle is trying to tell you something needs attention.


Not Every Warning Light Means Stop

Seeing a warning light does not always mean your vehicle is about to break down. In many cases, it is simply letting you know that something needs to be checked. The sooner you find out what caused the light to come on, the better your chance of avoiding a bigger repair.


Which Warning Lights Should You Watch?

Some of the most common warning lights include:

  • Check Engine Light
  • Battery Light
  • Oil Pressure Light
  • Brake Warning Light
  • Tire Pressure Light
  • Engine Temperature Light

Each one means something different, so it is important to have the vehicle checked instead of guessing.


Some Lights Need Immediate Attention

A tire pressure light may mean one of your tires is low on air. The check engine light could be something small, or it could point to a larger problem.

If you see the oil pressure light or the engine temperature light, stop driving as soon as it is safe. Driving with low oil pressure or an overheating engine can cause serious damage.


Teach Your Teen What to Do

Many new drivers have never seen a warning light before. Make sure they know they should not ignore it or cover it with a piece of tape.

If a warning light comes on, they should let you know as soon as possible. That simple phone call could prevent a much larger repair.


Finding the Problem Early Can Save Money

Warning lights are designed to catch problems early. Taking care of the problem now is often much less expensive than waiting until the vehicle breaks down.

A quick inspection today may help you avoid a major repair tomorrow.


Schedule a Vehicle Inspection Today

If a warning light has come on, don't wait to find out why. Call David's Automotive Repair at 972-625-1836 or schedule your reservation online today. We proudly provide check engine light diagnostics, vehicle inspections, and auto repair in The Colony, TX, helping families keep their vehicles safe and reliable all year long.

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