We’ve all been there, cruising carefree when a warning light appears on your dashboard. Panic typically sets in soon after as you wonder what the symbol means – and how serious the warning is.
Because your next steps are key, our service team at Mike Reichenbach Ford has compiled this helpful guide. While some symbols are easier to decipher than others, we’ve provided everything you need to know! Keep reading to learn more, then stop by our Ford Service Department for a maintenance check today.
Your Ford & Its Dashboard: What You Need to Know
Whether you’re exploring behind the wheel of a rugged Ford F-150 or navigating downtown streets in your Ford Escape, your vehicle is designed to let you know when there’s an issue. Familiarizing yourself with your vehicle’s premium dashboard features is the first step.
Learning Your Ford’s Interior Features and Symbols
Safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warnings, will appear to alert you to other surrounding vehicles. Other features, such as cruise control and headlights, will appear to indicate that they are currently in use.
Differentiating Between Colors
Choosing the perfect exterior paint color is important, but when it comes to safety, understanding the colors of dashboard symbols is even more crucial. The colors often vary by vehicle, but here are the most common dashboard Ford warning light meanings:
- Green/Blue: Lets you know that the system or feature is on and operating
- Orange/Yellow: Indicates that it may be time to stop by a Ford dealer near you for repairs or maintenance
- Red/Flashing: Means that action is required immediately. When you see a warning symbol appear that is red and/or flashing, pull over right away and contact a Ford dealership near you. An urgent mechanical issue could cause your vehicle to stop working or become damaged.
Ford Dashboard Warning Lights: What Do They Mean?
With multiple moving components at work under the hood and below the frame, new and used Ford vehicles are complex pieces of machinery. When issues arise, your vehicle will let you know – but it’s up to you to take notice and schedule Ford service near you! Here we’ll explore the most common dashboard warning lights and the meanings behind them.
Check Engine
The check engine light is one of the most dreaded, partially because of its ambiguity. This light indicates that the problem relates to the motor and emissions system, including anything from a loose wire to an ill-fitted gas cap. When you see this light appear, visit our Ford Service Center in Florence as soon as possible for an engine check-up!
Battery
The battery light is one of the easier symbols to understand because it looks exactly like the problem it’s trying to warn about. While it tends to accompany the heart-wrenching “whir” sound of an engine trying to start, it is entirely possible for the vehicle to start and run normally. If this is the case, it could indicate a long-term issue with the battery itself or a potential wiring issue.
Coolant Temperature
The coolant temperature appears as a thermometer dipped in liquid and illuminates to let you know that your car is running too hot as a result of low coolant levels, a leaking coolant hose, or a more serious issue. Choosing to ignore this sign could not only cause permanent damage to your Ford, but a serious blow to your finances.
Transmission Temperature
A thermometer housed in a gear, this light indicates that the internal gears are reaching their breaking point. For those hauling construction equipment or recreational vehicles, excessively heavy towing could be the cause for this warning light. Other concerns could be low transmission fluid levels or excessive wear on the transmission itself.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
New Ford models include a display on the infotainment system that lets you know the exact pressure of each tire, but some older Ford owners aren’t so lucky. If your tire pressure warning light appears, stop the car and check all tires – and refill the ones that are low. If corrected, the warning light should disappear in a few minutes. If not, stop in to Mike Reichenbach Ford in Florence for a quick tire check.
Brake System
This warning light can appear as a result of human error, like leaving the parking brake engaged as you are backing out of a parking spot. A more troubling culprit could be low brake fluid, a problem with the anti-lock braking system, or worn brake pads. It is recommended that until your brake issues are diagnosed and corrected, avoid driving your vehicle.
Questions? Stop By Our Ford Service Department Today!
Fords are built to last, but routine maintenance is required to keep your vehicle running right. But even with regular service, you may notice a warning light. When you spot it, our Ford service specialists are here to help! Whether you need a full maintenance check or a simple Ford oil change, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to ask about Ford service specials!
As locals’ trusted Ford dealership near you, we’re proud to be your one-stop shop for all things automotive! From finding and financing the perfect Ford to keeping it properly maintained, locals know where to go: Mike Reichenbach Ford in Florence! Stop by our Service Center today!
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