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Read MoreDash Warning Lights
Phil West
Pegasus Couriers Director
Are you driving blind, oblivious to the warning signs flashing right before you? Ignoring those warning lights can cost you. Pegasus Couriers Phil West discusses why you should not ignore your vehicle’s warning lights.
Ignoring Red Warning Lights Can Cost You
Ignoring warning lights in your vehicle can be costly. A recent survey revealed that 70% of drivers ignore these warnings, a potentially disastrous mistake. According to an AA survey, a third of drivers also disregard red oil warning lights, jeopardising their engines. An oil warning light only takes a few seconds to cause engine damage.
The survey also showed that only 30% of drivers would immediately stop if the oil pressure light came on, while a third would drive to a safe place before turning off the engine. Drivers should understand the meaning of warning lights and take immediate action to prevent further harm to their vehicles.
Another concerning finding is that one in four drivers would continue driving with an illuminated coolant temperature warning light. These results highlight the need to educate drivers about warning lights to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and be prepared for unexpected issues.
17 000 calls for Driver Assist
Last year, the AA alone attended to over 17,000 calls involving vehicles with dashboard warning light issues. On average, nine out of 10 vehicles were driven away after assistance.
As vehicles become more advanced, more dashboard warning symbols are being added.
What Do Vehicle Warning Lights Mean
By understanding the importance of red and amber warning lights, you can take immediate action to prevent vehicle damage and ensure your safety on the road.
A red warning light indicates a serious problem that requires immediate attention.
It could mean engine damage or a malfunctioning system that can leave you stranded. When you see a red warning light, you must pull over safely and switch off the engine to prevent further damage.
On the other hand, an amber warning light signifies a vehicle fault that may not be as urgent. While it is generally safe to drive to a garage, it is still important to address the issue promptly.
Facts & Key Takeaways:
- Ignoring red warning lights can lead to expensive garage bills and financial trouble.
- Continuing to drive with an oil pressure warning light can result in engine damage.
- Ignoring warning lights can leave drivers stranded at the roadside, especially on smart motorways.
- Familiarising yourself with warning lights and their meanings can prevent unnecessary breakdown calls and help drivers be prepared for unexpected illuminations.
- Regular vehicle checks and fixing faults before warning lights illuminate can save time, money, and the need for garage visits.
Half of UK Drivers Ignore Warning Lights
Another survey found that nearly half of UK drivers admit to ignoring dashboard warning lights, with common excuses being belief in faulty lights, fear of repair costs, and laziness.
However, it’s important to note that failing to investigate the cause of a warning light can invalidate insurance policies.
Regular check-ups and familiarising yourself with warning lights can save you money in the long run.
Additionally, ignoring these lights can compromise road safety and cause damage to your vehicle’s systems.
In terms of vehicle resale value, ignoring warning lights can significantly decrease the value of your vehicle.
Websites, Apps and Vehicle Handbooks
When understanding and deciphering the warning lights in your vehicle, resources like online platforms, apps, and vehicle handbooks can be beneficial.
Online platforms are a treasure trove of guides and tutorials that explain the meanings behind different warning lights and their potential causes. They serve as a convenient source of information that you can access anytime, anywhere. Launching the app allows you to swiftly search for specific warning lights and discover their corresponding explanations and solutions.
But let’s not forget about the trusty vehicle manuals which provide detailed explanations and diagrams tailored to your vehicle model.
Fleet Management: Vital For Couriers
At Pegasuas Couriers, we have implemented various systems that allow our delivery drivers to promptly alert us if there are any issues with their vans. The key to ensuring the smooth operation of our courier van fleet lies in proper fleet management software and dedicated administrators.
Effective fleet management is crucial for running our operations like a well-oiled machine. It involves utilising top-notch software that enables us to monitor each vehicle’s performance and maintenance needs. This way, we can address potential issues before they escalate into major problems.
What should I do if a red warning light appears on my dashboard?
If a red warning light appears, it indicates a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Pull over safely as soon as possible and switch off the engine to prevent further damage. It is advisable to contact a breakdown service or have the vehicle towed to a garage for professional diagnostics.
What are the differences between red and amber warning lights?
Red warning lights signify critical issues that require immediate action, such as engine malfunctions or brake failures. Amber warning lights indicate less urgent problems that still need attention but allow you to drive safely to a garage for repairs.
How can I prevent dashboard warning lights from appearing?**
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential. This includes routine oil changes, coolant checks, brake inspections, and tire maintenance. Familiarising yourself with your vehicle's manual can also help you understand the recommended service intervals and maintenance tasks.
What are some common reasons drivers ignore warning lights?**
Common reasons include disbelief that the warning light is accurate, fear of high repair costs, and simple negligence or laziness. However, ignoring these warnings can lead to more significant issues and expenses down the line.
Can ignoring warning lights affect my vehicle's resale value?
Yes, ignoring warning lights can lead to unresolved mechanical issues that can significantly decrease the resale value of your vehicle. Potential buyers may be wary of purchasing a car that has a history of ignored maintenance.
How can fleet management help in monitoring vehicle issues?
Effective fleet management systems can track the performance of each vehicle in real-time, providing alerts for maintenance needs or warning lights. This proactive approach helps prevent breakdowns and ensures that all vehicles are properly maintained.
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