In the previous article, we’ve already explored the most common dashboard warning lights. But as fleets contain many dashboard warning lights with respect to their successor, here’s another article to explain the rest of the most common yet necessary warning lights.
Regardless of your commercial or private vehicle, it’s a law of nature that any machine can stop after operating for a long time. But the in-built sensors that come pre-installed with your vehicle can significantly help save a life.
Many drivers don’t know the actual meaning behind these warning lights, so it’s crucial to understand what they mean, as Ignoring them will lead you towards a significant vehicle breakdown.
The dashboard warning lights have specific sensors to identify and alert the particular problem your vehicle is facing so drivers can rectify it before breaking.
Below are the most relevant dashboard warning lights you need to know.
The warning icons and colours are specified by the International Standards Organization (ISO); therefore, when you see the red light, it’s probably a high priority. Whereas yellow is indicated for caution and blue for a reminder to check a particular part.
Fleet dashboard warning lights you need to know
Battery Warning Lights
The Battery Warning light icon can be identified as a winking robot and represents a charging system light. When this sign starts blinking, it indicates the battery is on low power or hasn’t charged correctly.
Ignoring the sign leads to major electrical problems with the power steering and engine; therefore, take the vehicle to the service station and charge the battery or the alternator. Generally, the battery needs to be replaced at this point, but get it checked again as there could be other impeding causes.
Clutch Disc Warning Light
Vehicles like Mitsubishi Canter have these types of warning lights. This dashboard warning indicates the remaining clutch disk capacity of your vehicle. When the vehicle’s clutch is used to its limit, it won’t move forward regardless of the clutch connection. When this warning light turns on, it’s suggested to repair the fleet in a month.
Heat Indicator Lights
Any fleet system needs to function at sufficient temperatures. The air is compressed in high heat, and the fuel is injected to ignite the engine. Whereas in cold temperatures, the air temperature might not increase. Therefore, the engine may not turn ON spontaneously.
In such conditions, the mechanism is pre-installed to solve this issue so the vehicle can warm up high enough and ignite the engine properly. When the key is turned on, the preheat indicator light will start to glow for five seconds and go out.
When the process is complete, it’ll go off to indicate the combustion chamber is warm enough, and the vehicle will start without hesitation. It’s particularly called an indicator light but can become a warning sign if the lights continue to glow after five seconds.
Disc Brake Warning Lights
This warning light is also found in vehicles like Mitsubishi Canter. The dashboard warning indicates the rest of the capacity of the brake pads. Although these warning lights are mostly found on over two tons truck sizes, the glow may vary according to the vehicle manufacturer.
Once the lights start blinking, it’s time to replace the brake pads, as they may be worn out.
EPS Warning Lights
These warning lights can be found in vehicles manufactured by Nissan. If you see the EPS warning light glow while driving, there is a possibility your EPS system has malfunctioned and needs to repair as soon as possible.
In such situations, you can still operate your steering wheel but needs to apply excessive force, especially during low speeds and sharp turns.
Conclusion
There are many dashboard warning lights to cover but understanding the important ones is better than reading about many. It’s advised to check the lights, take the necessary action, and maintain your fleet safety.
