Ford Warning Lights Guide

Gone are the days when your car broke down for seemingly no reason. Modern vehicles have sensors that immediately alert you to any problem. These usually illuminate when you start your car and play a critical role in ensuring that all systems are ready to go.

Have no fear if you see the flicker of a warning light. Our Riverside Ford dealership team has created the ultimate Ford warning lights guide. We will help you identify the various types of warning lights and indicators you will find on the dashboard of your Ford. Having a proper understanding of these warning lights can help you avoid costly repairs or serious accidents.

Warning Light Color System

Ford has color-coded the warning lights so that you can quickly identify the nature and urgency of the issue:

• Green/Blue: the system is in current use and is working correctly.
• Yellow: minor malfunction, not immediately serious but needs further inspection.
• Red/Orange: the most urgent and significant signal that something is seriously wrong with your vehicle. If you see this, immediately pull over and address the issue.

One of your vehicle’s systems may be breaking down if the information indicator light or the warning light doesn’t illuminate when you turn the ignition. On the flip side, if the light stays on, it also indicates a potential system failure. It would be best if you immediately had your vehicle inspected by a properly trained technician. Read on to learn about what each warning light symbolizes and what to do when it turns on.

Check Engine Light

Perhaps one of the most unnerving warning lights of all, the check engine light is certainly not to be ignored. A malfunction has triggered the system if the engine light stays illuminated after starting the car. The check engine light can mean various things, from a loose gas cap to a faulty catalytic converter. It would be best if you got your car checked as soon as possible.

If the check engine light flashes, it may be due to an engine misfire. In this scenario, you should pull over immediately. If you continue to drive the vehicle, it could further damage the engine.

Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light

The ABS is a significant safety feature that helps prevent your car from sliding out of control in difficult driving conditions. The light on the dashboard will come on briefly to indicate that the system is working, but if it stays on, it may indicate a system error.

In this case, getting it checked as soon as possible is essential. You can drive with standard braking (without ABS) unless the brake system light also illuminates. However, it’s best to seek immediate help for maximum safety.

Brake System Warning Light

If the brake system warning light turns on while you’re moving, you might have left the parking brake on. Make sure that the brake is off before proceeding. If the light stays on, there is a failure of the brake system. Driving safely without working brakes is impossible, so you must act promptly if this warning light persists.

If the light is red, the brake fluid level is low, and you must check it immediately. If the brake light and ABS light go on simultaneously, the brake system has malfunctioned, and your brakes are unsafe for driving. Don’t risk driving with malfunctioning brakes. Pull to the side and call for assistance.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Oil powers your engine, and a lack of it can cause catastrophic problems. So the oil warning light can be especially problematic if it appears on your dashboard. You’ll want to check your oil levels immediately.

Battery Light

The battery light may indicate that the vehicle’s charging system is failing. A faulty electrical connection, a damaged or defective battery, or a broken alternator could cause this. Your car will still run as usual until the battery is dead, but it will not restart once you have drained it. You’ll want to head to the shop to get it recharged or replaced as soon as possible.

Front Airbag Light

This light indicates that at least one of the airbag system components isn’t working properly. This could include essential safety features such as the front passenger occupant classification system or the seat belt pre-tensioner system.

The failure of the airbag system can prevent it from working correctly in a crash or cause it to deploy unexpectedly. It is one of your Ford’s most important safety features, so it is vital to check it immediately.

Low Tire Pressure Warning Light

Ford cars have tire pressure monitoring systems that notify you when the pressure starts to fall. So the lamp will illuminate if the tire pressure has dropped to or below the 25% threshold limit. To avoid creating unsafe driving conditions, reduce your speed and avoid making violent steering movements.

Most gas stations and garage owners have air compressors that you can use to check tire pressure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and top up the air in the tires. You may need a patch or new tires if the issue persists.

Engine Temperature Warning Light

The engine temperature warning light indicates that the engine may be overheating. You’ll need to pull over immediately and let the car cool down to prevent further damage. Be sure to check coolant levels to ensure it’s appropriately topped off and that there are no leaks. If the light continuously comes on, you’ll need to have the car looked at by a professional.

We hope this guide will help you in a pinch. It is critical to remember that only proper maintenance of your vehicle will extend its life and help you avoid costly repairs. Our Riverside Ford dealership offers various services, including collision repairs, light maintenance, and new Ford tires. Next time you need to get your vehicle checked or a routine tuneup, schedule an appointment at our service center. Our team looks forward to assisting you.