Do you have problems understanding your vehicle's idiot lights? Join the club! I asked Jody Victor to give us the explanations in layman's terms. For our second installment - read on!
Jody Victor: If you're not sure what the light means or how imminent the problem is, this is the read for you.
Low Tire Pressure - A tire-pressure-monitoring system has been standard equipment on all new vehicles since 2008. A sensor on each wheel monitors tire air pressure and triggers this warning light if the pressure drops to 25 percent below the specified cold inflation pressure. The idea is to warn you of low pressure before it becomes a critical safety issue. Some cars also have a graphic display that indicates which tire is low. Pull over as soon as possible. If the tire is really flat, you'll need to change it with the spare to continue. If you think you can drive safely on the tire, get to an air hose, fill the tire to its specified pressure, and then go to a service center and have the tire checked. It may be a slow leak that can be repaired.
Brakes - This light usually has two functions. The first is to warn you that you're driving with your parking brake on. So the first step is to make sure that the parking brake is fully released. If the light stays on, or if it suddenly comes on while you are driving, the brake fluid level is probably low. If the brake pedal seems normal, check the brake fluid level (see your owner's manual) the next time you stop. If it's low, have the brake system checked for a leak or other problems, which could be as simple as worn brake pads. If the brake pedal does not feel normal - if it is very soft or goes down to the floor - you have an immediate, critical problem and need to get the car stopped safely and off the road as soon as possible. Shift to a lower gear to help slow the car, and use the parking brake, which is now the emergency brake, to help get your machine stopped.
ABS - This lamp is a warning that the anti-lock function of the braking system is not working. Unless the brake light is also illuminated, the brakes will still work, but have a qualified technician check the ABS for a problem.
Supplemental Restraint System - This light is alerting you to ab problem with the supplemental restraints, which include the airbags, automatic seat-belt tensioners, driver's seat position sensor, the front passenger weight sensor and other items, depending on the vehicle. Consult your owner's manual for details, and see a dealer if you can't solve the issue on your own.
Thanks, Jody! Now we'll know what to do if these lights come on.