Ford Dashboard Warning Lights Guide

If you’re asking yourself, “what does the light on my dashboard mean?” you’ve come to the right place. There are many reasons why your dashboard may be flashing and not all of them are dire. However, it’s important to understand what the lights on your dashboard mean because they often indicate that the vehicle needs service. Rely on Mike Murphy Ford for any vehicle services that you need! See below for a full list of the signs that you’ll find on your Ford dashboard and what they mean.

Dashboard Warning Lights: Engine

The engine is the mechanism that keeps your car going, but it’s also the most dangerous aspect of your car. When an engine light flashes, you’ll want to act swiftly to correct the issue.

Engine:

• Service: When the service light is turned on, that means that a malfunction has been detected and you must bring in your vehicle for service.
• Coolant: When this light stays on, that means the vehicle is overheating. To correct the issue, the engine must be turned off. Allow the engine time to cool off before restarting it.
• Oil: If the oil light stays on, pull over as soon as possible and check the oil level. The light usually indicates low oil fluid, and the need for oil service should not be ignored.
• Auto Start-Stop: The auto start-stop sign lights up when the engine is about to turn off automatically.

Ford Warning Lights: Brakes

Every Peoria driver knows the importance of a fully functioning braking system. When a brake light turns on, it’s easy to panic — but you don’t need to. Once you learn what all the lights mean, you’ll be able to safely fix the situation, no panicking required. If you need a service done, schedule an appointment at your local Ford dealership.

Brakes:

• Electric Park Brake: The electric park brake lights up when your parking brake malfunctions. It is dangerous to keep driving when that light is on; pull over as soon as possible and turn off your car.
• Anti-lock Braking System: If you see ABS illuminated, that means your ABS system is malfunctioning but your normal braking system is working as usual. If both lights are turned on, that means your brakes are not working. You should pull over immediately and stop the car.
• Brake System: This light turns on if your parking brake is engaged while you’re driving. It could also mean that your brake fluid is low.

Ford Warning Lights: Safety Features

East Peoria drivers want to trust that their Ford vehicle will keep them safe on the road. That’s why it’s important to know what the signs mean on your dashboard.

Safety Features:

• Blind Spot Monitor: Your blind spot monitor lights up when the blind spot feature is disabled.
• Seat Belt: When turned on, that means someone isn’t buckled in!
• Front airbag: When illuminated, there’s a malfunction with the airbag safety feature.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This light turns on when cruise control is engaged and will turn off when speed control is turned back on.
• Tires: When the tire sign is turned on, your tire pressure is likely low and must be changed. This is a good time to learn more about tires, such as how to check your tire tread depth or how often to rotate your tires.
• Battery: When the battery sign is turned on, pull over because your car battery may be malfunctioning. Your battery should be replaced if this problem persists.

Rely on Mike Murphy Ford for Ford Service!

Dashboard lights help keep Pekin drivers aware of their car’s health so they can stay safe on the road. Luckily, Mike Murphy Ford offers an array of services so that you and your Ford can continue to safely drive through Morton. Learn more about the service specials we offer before scheduling your next service appointment! We are proud to be your source for all things Ford Service.