Warning Lights and Noises
Checklist for describing a car noise to a mechanic
Describing a car noise clearly helps a technician reproduce it. This checklist covers the conditions, the sound and the location to note before you visit the shop.
The collection
Warning Lights and Noises
What dashboard warning lights and unusual sounds or smells usually point to, which ones mean stop driving now, and which can wait for a routine visit to a repair shop.
Warning Lights and Noises
Reading the warning lights on your dashboard
Learn how dashboard warning lights are sorted by color, what the startup bulb check means, the symbols drivers see most often, and where to find exact meanings.
Warning Lights and Noises
What a check engine light usually means
Learn what a steady or flashing check engine light signals, the causes that show up most often, when you can keep driving, and how a diagnostic code narrows the problem.
Warning Lights and Noises
What a squealing or grinding brake noise usually means
A high-pitched squeal and a deep grinding sound point to different stages of brake wear. Learn what each usually means and when a brake inspection should not wait.
Warning Lights and Noises
What burning smells from a car can point to
A burning smell from a car can come from oil, coolant, brakes, a clutch or wiring. Learn which smell points where, and when to pull over and call for help right away.
Warning Lights and Noises
What knocking or ticking from the engine can point to
Not every tick under the hood is a fault, but a heavy knock or a tick that gets worse with low oil needs prompt attention. Here is how to tell the sounds apart.
Warning Lights and Noises
Which warning lights mean you should stop driving now
Learn which dashboard warnings for oil pressure, engine temperature, brakes and charging call for stopping, how to pull over safely, and which lights can wait.