Your dashboard isn’t there to annoy you; it’s there to protect you. But to protect you, you need to use it correctly. Learn how to read your dashboard with this post that Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC has prepared for you.

Let’s be real: most of us treat the dashboard like it’s some kind of vague suggestion box, until a light turns red and your heart drops into your shoes.

But your dashboard isn’t just a place for dramatic warning lights. It’s the car’s way of talking to you. And once you learn to "speak dashboard," you’ll avoid a lot of panic, unnecessary repair bills, and roadside meltdowns.

Here’s how to actually read your dashboard like a complete pro.

Did a red light turn on? Call Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC, at (252) 917-1677 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to make sure you keep your vehicle in mint condition and your dashboard calm.

First, Know the Three Colors That Matter

Your car’s warning lights follow a traffic-light system (no joke).

• Green/Blue \= All good.
  These are info-only. Like high beams, cruise control, or eco mode. Nothing to stress about.
• Yellow/Orange \= Caution.
  Pay attention. It’s not an emergency, but it could become one if you ignore it.
• Red \= Stop driving.
  Not "finish this errand first." Not "get home first." Stop. Driving. Something’s wrong, and you could damage the car, or put yourself at risk, by continuing.

Common Dashboard Symbols You Should Know

Here are the ones you’re most likely to see (and what they’re really telling you):

1. Check Engine Light

Looks like: A little engine outline, sometimes with the word “CHECK”
Means: Could be something small like a loose gas cap or something massive like a misfiring cylinder.
Pro Tip: Buy a cheap OBD-II scanner or head to an auto parts store, they’ll often scan it for free.

2. Oil Pressure Light

Looks like: An old-school oil can with a drip
Means: Low oil pressure, which can destroy your engine.
Do this: Stop the car ASAP. Check the oil level. If it’s low, top it up. If it’s full, call a tow—something deeper is wrong.

3. Battery/Charging System Warning

Looks like: A car battery with plus and minus signs
Means: The battery isn’t charging. Could be the alternator or loose wiring.
Don’t ignore: Your car will eventually shut off. Head to a shop before it does.

4. Brake Warning Light

Looks like: A circle with an exclamation mark or “BRAKE”
Means: Either your parking brake is on, or there’s a serious issue with your braking system.
Check: Is the handbrake down? Still on? Time to see a mechanic.

5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Looks like: A flat tire with an exclamation mark
Means: One or more tires have low pressure.
Check: Use a tire gauge. Under-inflated tires \= poor fuel economy and tire damage.

6. Coolant Temperature Warning

Looks like: A thermometer over waves
Means: Your engine’s running hot.
DO NOT: Open the radiator cap while hot. Let it cool, check coolant levels, and check for leaks.

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The Secret Menu: Info You Probably Overlook

Beyond the flashy warning lights, your dashboard is hiding tons of useful info, especially if you drive a newer car.

• Trip meters: Resettable mileage counters. Useful for tracking fuel efficiency or knowing when your next oil change is due.
• Fuel range: Tells you how many miles before you’re walking. Not always 100% accurate, treat it as a “best guess.”
• Service reminders: Some cars will literally tell you when to get an oil change or check your brakes. Listen to them.

What to Do When a Light Comes On

1. Don’t panic. Look at the color. Red means urgent. Yellow means soon. Green/blue means chill.
2. Check your owner’s manual. (Yes, the book in your glove box you’ve never opened.)
3. Take a photo. If it flashes and disappears, you’ll have proof when you talk to a mechanic.
4. Use a code reader. They’re cheap and can give you a diagnostic code to Google or show to your tech.

Bonus: Lights You Shouldn’t Ignore But Often Do

• ABS Light: You can still brake, but anti-lock braking may be offline. Dangerous in wet/slippery conditions.
• Airbag Light: If this is on, your airbag might not deploy—or worse, might deploy randomly.
• Traction Control Light: Usually flickers on when driving in snow or rain. But if it stays on? System fault.

Call Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC at (252) 917-1677 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to figure out how you can save more time and money on your vehicle’s maintenance thanks to their high-quality products.