Is your Toyota displaying an unfamiliar dashboard light? At Mark Jacobson Toyota in Durham, we understand that car dashboard symbols can sometimes be confusing. Let’s break down the most common warning lights you might see and what actions you should take.
Critical Warning Lights (Stop Immediately!)
These dashboard lights require immediate attention:
Brake System Warning
What it means: There may be low brake fluid or a malfunction in the brake system.
What to do: If the parking brake is fully released and the light remains on, do not drive the vehicle. Call for brake service immediately.
Charging System Warning
What it means: Your vehicle’s charging system has a malfunction.
What to do: Stop the vehicle immediately and contact us for help.
High Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
What it means: Your engine is overheating.
What to do: Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Then, schedule a service with us.
Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning
What it means: Your engine oil pressure is dangerously low, which can cause severe damage.
What to do: Stop the vehicle in a safe location and call Mark Jacobson Toyota for assistance.
Maintenance and System Alerts
These lights indicate issues that need attention soon:
Check Engine (Malfunction Indicator Lamp)
What it means: There may be an issue with the engine, throttle, or transmission system.
What to do: Have your Toyota inspected at our dealership as soon as possible.
Low Fuel Level Warning
What it means: Your fuel level is dangerously low.
What to do: Refuel immediately.
Low Windshield Washer Fluid Warning
What it means: The windshield washer fluid is low.
What to do: Refill the washer fluid reservoir.
Maintenance Required Reminder
What it means: Your vehicle is due for maintenance based on the mileage driven. This light illuminates for about 3 seconds and then flashes for 15 seconds after approximately 4,500 miles (7,200 km) since the last reset.
What to do: Schedule a ToyotaCare service appointment.
Power Steering Warning
What it means: Indicates a malfunction in the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system.
What to do: Do not ignore this warning. Have your vehicle inspected immediately. Failure to do so may result in unpredictable steering behavior and increase the risk of an accident.
SRS Airbag Warning
What it means: There may be an issue with the airbag, passenger occupant classification, or seat belt pretensioner system.
What to do: Have your airbag system checked as soon as possible.
Tire Pressure Warning
What it means: One or more tires have low air pressure.
What to do: Check and inflate your tires. If the light stays on, visit us for an inspection.
Safety and Driving Indicators
These lights are simply informational or serve as safety reminders:
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Indicator
- Cruise Control Indicator
- Open Door Warning
- Seat Belt Reminder
- Traction Control
What to Do If a Warning Light Stays On
If any warning light remains on after taking corrective action, schedule a service appointment with Mark Jacobson Toyota as soon as possible.
Our expert technicians are ready to help keep your Toyota in peak condition. They are equipped to diagnose and repair any issues indicated by your dashboard lights. We serve customers throughout Durham, Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough.
Addressing warning lights promptly can prevent more serious issues and help maintain your Toyota’s performance and reliability. Visit us at Mark Jacobson Toyota—Where We Say Yes to keeping your vehicle running smoothly with expert service and genuine Toyota parts.
Schedule service today by calling our service department or using our online scheduling tool.
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