Instrumentation Terminology…..Auto Speak For Dashboard.

We are going to have a very quick look at your Instrument Panel (Dashboard) and the correct Description of each Warning Light. Even if you have no interest in the mechanical workings of your car it is essential to know the location of all the important “Bits”, their correct description and the appropriate action you must take when lights start to flash, bleep or generally misbehave!

You should not consider venturing out on your own unless you know the following. You will be putting your own life at risk and that of other road users, to say nothing of your passengers.


1. Handbrake Warning light (Red Circle with exclamation mark )

2. Alternator Warning Light (Battery Icon )

3. Oil Pressure warning Light (Oil Can Icon)

4. Coolant Temperature Gauge (Calibrated Gauge)

5. Coolant Temperature Warning Light (Thermometer Icon)

6. Fuel Gauge (Calibrated Gauge)

7. Rev Counter (Main Circular Dial )

8. Speedometer (Main Circular Dial )

9. Seatbelt Warning Light (Passenger Icon )

These are the main Instrument Warning lights which all come and stay on momentarily after you turn the Ignition on. All should then go out, leaving the Alternator Warning Light and the Handbrake Warning Light on as you start the Engine. Once the engine is running, the only light that should be visible is the Handbrake Warning Light. This should go out the moment you
move off.

What to do when any of these lights come on? With the exception of the Handbrake Warning Light all other lights showing while you are Driving require you to stop the Car immediately (after checking your mirrors) and investigate the cause.

We will go through the diagnostic procedures and the action to be taken in our next Post.
In the mean time Safe Driving ………….

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