The car dashboard is an important component of every vehicle as it is fitted with manual counters to detect and alert you to the car's conditions.
While initial vehicle cockpits contained several signals, such as the speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature and revolution counter, modern ones have a plethora of signals.
With technological advancement, most cars are now fitted with electronic dashboards connected to the central computer system to facilitate communication with the drivers.
Herein are some of the signals on the dashboards, what they mean and what to do if they appear.
Signals touching on the vehicle interior
Recirculate the air button
The air recirculation signal deals with the air conditioning system of the car.
Ordinarily, the system works by filtering air from the exterior of the vehicle and filtering it before circulating it in the car.
However, the recirculation button comes on, which means that the a/c uses the air inside the car to perform its function more efficiently.
Air recirculation can also be used to de-fog windows and the windscreen caused by occupants during the cold seasons.
It does this by reducing the humidity of the air inside the car, thus clearing the windows.
Airbag Signal
The signal indicates that one of the airbags installed in the vehicle's supplemental restraint system (SRS) is faulty. Most cars have two airbags, one on the steering wheel and the other on the codriver's side.
It may also indicate that the passenger seating position, as determined by the weight distribution system, may be irregular and necessitate airbag deployment.
Drivers should visit a professional mechanic to check and fix the problem.
The Door Warning light
The signal goes on when one of the five doors - passenger doors and the boot - is opened, and the fuel tank door in some cars. It works hand in hand with the door light at the hood of the vehicle.
Notably, the signal is important in alerting drivers of improperly closed doors to avoid possible accidents. If it remains off when one of the doors is unlocked, then the central lock system may be dysfunctional.
Signals touching the engine vehicle engine
The Engine Oil Signal
The signal alerts the driver that the level of engine oil has dropped below the recommended level and needs refilling. Furthermore, it signifies a dip or spike in the oil pressure in the engine.
The pressure determines the oil circulation in the engine, thus affecting the lubrication of moving parts. It may cause wear and tear or complete damage to parts if not fixed.
The Battery Warning Sign
The signal communicates that there may be a problem with the car's power unit - the battery. Drivers are advised to visit the next shop and have a battery test conducted to determine the battery life.
If the result turns negative, the fault could be in the charging system, either with the connection point at the battery terminals or the alternator, which generates the energy stored in the battery.
Braking Signal
It informs the driver that the handbrake is engaged and is derailing the vehicle's movement. Alternatively, it indicates that the level of the battery level is low and needs to be topped up.
However, if it remains on after the motorist disengages the handbrake and replenishes the brake fluid, a routine checkup is necessary.
Engine Temperature Signal
This alerts motorists that the engine's pressure is above the norm and may cause overheating.
Drivers should immediately stop the vehicle at a safe location or a nearby police station.
Engine overheating is caused by lower coolant levels or leakage of the same. Drivers are strongly advised against opening the cap of the cooling track when still hot as it may cause severe burns.
Furthermore, adding water when the engine is running may cause damage to the vehicle.
Tyre Pressure
This resembles a deflated tire with an exclamation mark. The symbol denotes that the air pressure in the wheels is either below or above the recommended level.
Notably, drivers should understand how different levels of tyre pressure can be used to improve the speed and efficiency of a car when driving.
