Toyota Vehicle Service Warning Indicators
At Joe Myers Toyota, we want to help you understand your car better so that you can keep up with routine maintenance. Part of understanding your vehicle is knowing what the service warning lights on the dashboard mean. Here are 10 common warning signals and what they mean.
Airbag Fault
This warning light indicates that there is a problem with the airbag's function. Sometimes it means the airbag has failed to deploy upon a low-impact crash. Another reason it may malfunction is due to an error with the seatbelt signal.
Low Fuel Level Warning Light
You will see this light turn on when your car needs refueling. Locate the nearest gas station and fill up your tank as soon as you can.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light turns on if your car's oil pressure is too low. Check your oil levels, and, if necessary, top up your oil. If the light stays on after the oil fill or change, or if the oil level appears correct despite the light coming on, bring your vehicle into Joe Myers Toyota for a check.
Service Vehicle Soon
If your car's maintenance schedule has programmed reminders, this light will turn on for various routine maintenance. This is based on the number of miles your vehicle has been driven. Some Toyotas may have a warning for every 5,000 miles to remind you of basic things like oil changes and tire rotation.
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
If you need to adjust the pressure in your tires, this light will turn on. After adjustment of the inflation pressure, the light should turn off. However, if the light remains on, have a professional check the system. The light may also stay on after blinking for one minute, which is an indication that the warning signal is malfunctioning.
Slip Indicator
The slip indicator light turns on if there is a loss of traction with your tires, such as on a slippery road. If the light is flashing, you should be able to regain control. If the light remains solid or stays on after you've gained traction, there could be a problem with the Vehicle Stability Control and/or Traction Control warning signal.
Charging System Warning Light
If there is an issue with your battery or the charging circuit, you will see this light turn on. If you are in motion when this occurs, it is possible that your fan belt is broken. It can also mean there is a wiring fault. If this light turns on, stop your car and seek assistance from a professional.
Brake System
The brake light warning comes on if your anti-lock brakes are malfunctioning in some way. You should not lose control, as the brakes should still work, but this is a problem that should be addressed by a professional.
Open Door Warning Light
This light appears on the dashboard if one of your car's doors is not latched fully. It can also turn on if the trunk is not tightly closed. Once you have ensured that all doors and the trunk are properly shut, the light should go off.
Coolant Level Warning
The coolant warning will turn on if your vehicle is too low on coolant. When the coolant levels are too low, your engine can overheat and cause serious damage to your vehicle. Bring your car into Joe Myers Toyota for professional aid if this light comes on.
