Dashboard Warning Lights
When a warning light comes on, do not panic, but do not ignore it either. Some lights require you to pull over immediately, while others just mean something needs to be checked at some point.
Red Lights - Pull Over as Soon as It Is Safe
Engine temperature (thermometer) The engine is overheating. Pull over immediately, shut the engine off, and wait for it to cool down. Driving with an overheating engine can cause serious damage to the cylinder head.
Oil (oil can symbol) Oil pressure is too low. Stop and check the oil level. If the level is fine but the light is still on, do not drive. Call a shop.
Battery The alternator is not charging the battery. The car will run as long as the battery has charge, but after that it will not start again. Head straight to a shop.
Yellow/Orange Lights - Check It, but Not an Emergency
Check engine The most common warning light. It can mean anything from a loose fuel cap to a more serious engine problem. If the car runs normally, you can continue driving to a shop. If the light is flashing, ease off the throttle and go in right away.
ABS The anti-lock braking system has a fault. The brakes still work, but without ABS protection. Get it looked at when you can.
Airbag There is a problem with the airbag system. The airbags will not deploy in a crash. Get it checked at a shop.
Green/Blue Lights - Informational
High beams High beams are on. Do not forget to switch them off when there is oncoming traffic.
Turn signals Normal blinking. If they blink faster than usual, one of the bulbs is burned out.
Advice from the Shop
Do not tape over the warning light and forget about it. If a light has come on and will not go away, bring it in for diagnostics. It is better to find out early than to pay for an expensive repair later.