Learn About All Dashboard Warning Lights — and Why They Matter for New Car, Used Car & Pre-Trip Inspections
Why Dashboard Warning Lights Are Important in Every Type of Inspection
Dashboard or control panel lights are like a car’s built-in health indicators. They tell you what’s happening under the hood — from engine performance to brake safety. Whether it’s a New Car PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection), Used Car Evaluation, or Pre-Trip Check, understanding these lights helps ensure your car is safe, reliable, and ready for the road.
At PehliCar, our experts carefully analyze every dashboard light to detect hidden faults that visual inspection alone may miss. Here’s how they matter in different inspection types and what each key light means.
Check Engine Light
What It Means: Detects issues in the engine, emission, or sensor system.
During PDI: Ensures your brand-new car engine runs flawlessly before delivery.
During Used Car Inspection: Helps identify past neglect or hidden faults.
During Pre-Trip Inspection: Confirms no engine issue that could cause breakdowns on long drives.
Brake Warning Light
What It Means: Low brake fluid or wear in brake pads.
Why It Matters: Brake safety is non-negotiable. This light helps ensure your car stops effectively — whether new, used, or before your journey.
Oil Pressure Light
What It Means: Low engine oil pressure or leakage.
During Inspection: Immediate red flag — unchecked, it can lead to major engine damage. Our experts verify the oil level, pump, and filter health.
Battery & Charging System Light
What It Means: Fault in the battery or alternator.
Why It’s Checked: During PDI, it ensures the car’s electrical system is factory-perfect. In used cars, it helps detect weak batteries or faulty alternators. For pre-trip checks, it guarantees your car won’t stop mid-journey.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Light
What It Means: ABS malfunction.
Why Important: Ensures vehicle stability during emergency braking — a must-check in every PehliCar inspection checklist.
Airbag Warning Light
What It Means: Fault in the airbag system.
In PDI: Ensures factory safety systems are properly connected.
In Used Cars: Reveals if airbags have been previously deployed or tampered with.
In Pre-Trip Checks: Confirms occupant safety for long routes.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) Light
What It Means: Low or high tyre pressure.
Why We Check: Proper tyre pressure improves fuel efficiency, braking, and comfort — vital before delivery or a long trip.
Coolant Temperature Light
What It Means: Engine overheating.
Why It Matters: Prevents breakdowns or engine failure. Especially crucial in used car and summer pre-trip inspections.
Traction Control Light
What It Means: Problem with traction or stability system.
Why Check It: Ensures the car maintains grip during wet or uneven driving — especially important before highway or mountain travel.
Service Reminder Light
What It Means: Routine maintenance due.
How PehliCar Uses It: Helps estimate upcoming service costs for used car buyers and ensures timely maintenance before trips.
Conclusion
Ignoring dashboard warning lights can lead to expensive repairs and safety risks.
At PehliCar, our experts thoroughly inspect all control panel lights during every New Car PDI, Used Car Inspection, and Pre-Trip Check, ensuring complete peace of mind before you buy or drive.
With PehliCar’s professional car inspection, you’ll always know your vehicle’s real condition — because every light tells a story.
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