Warning lights on the dashboard can be overwhelming and even cause you to panic a little. However, most of those lights are minor things that are easy to fix. It’s still important to be able to tell the difference between what’s a minor issue and what can potentially become a safety issue.
Allow us at Rosen Nissan Madison to breakdown what each warning light on your Nissan’s dashboard is trying to tell you.
Check Engine- This light appears when your Nissan’s computer senses a problem in the system.
Service Soon- This light might be referencing an issue with the headlights or other internal issues.
Anti-Lock Brakes- If this light stays on for more than six seconds it could mean that there is an issue with the anti-lock brake system.
Security- This will light up when the ignition is locked.
Overdrive/Sport- When you put your Nissan into performance or sport mode this light will appear.
Exhaust Particulate Filter (Diesel)- If you drive a diesel engine this light will come up if the filter that keeps particles out of the cabin is clogged.
Glow Plug (Diesel)- If this light is on it means the glow plugs are overheated and you should not start the vehicle until the sign goes off.
Door Ajar- This light is simply to let you know that one or more of your vehicle’s doors are open.
ESP Fault- This symbol appears when there is an issue with the vehicle’s traction control.
Reduced Power Warning- The engine adjusts output levels to conserve energy, so if this light is on a technician needs to check the vehicle’s CPU.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning- You’ll see this light when your engine’s oil pressure is low.
Battery- If the battery needs to be replaced or the voltage is not at the right level this signal will come up to alert you.
Coolant Temperature- This light comes on if your engine is running low on coolant which can cause it to overheat.
Parking Brake and Brake Fluid Warning- If this light is on for more than six seconds it’s an indication that your vehicle is low on brake fluid.
Cruise Control- When cruise control is in use this light will be on.
Traction Control/ESP- When the vehicle encounters wet surfaces it will let you know that traction control is in use with this light.
Wiper Fluid- You’ll see this light if your vehicle is low on wiper fluid.
Exhaust Fluid (Diesel)- This alert will pop up if your exhaust fluids are low.
Airbag Warning- This symbol indicates that your airbag system is malfunctioning.
Headlight/ Tail Light Out- This indicates that at least one of your headlights/ tail lights are out.
Gas Cap- This symbol indicates that your gas cap is not properly secured.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System- If this light comes on it is indicating that one or more of your tires is low on air.
Transmission Overheating- When the transmission overheats you’ll see this symbol. You may have to check the transmission fluids or the engine coolant.
If any of the warning lights mentioned above are popping up on your dashboard, schedule a service appointment with us at Rosen Nissan Madison. Our Nissan service center is located right here at our dealership in Madison near Fitchburg and Verona.
If you have any questions or would like more information about our services or about what your Nissan’s warning lights are trying to tell you, don’t hesitate to contact us online today!