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Kia Vehicle Service Warning Indicators
At Joe Myers Kia we are often asked about the meaning of vehicle service indicators. These warning lights that appear on your car's instrument panel are telling you something important. Do you know the meaning of these ten common service warning indicators?
Airbag Fault
Pay attention if this light remains on after you have started your car. It could mean that you have a problem with the airbags or restraint system in your vehicle. Take the car to your dealer to be inspected.
Low Fuel Level Warning Light
You don't need to be an expert on service indicators to recognize this one. It means that the fuel in your car is very low. Forget what you have been told about driving another twenty miles and refuel as soon as possible.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
The common cause for this service warning is low oil pressure. You should check the oil in your car and refill it as necessary. If your oil level is fine, and the warning light remains lit, have the car checked for a more serious problem.
Service Vehicle Soon
Scheduled maintenance is recommended for most cars today every 5,000 miles. This light lets you know it is time to change your oil or have your tires rotated. The light will stay on until your dealer's service department has reset it.
TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Cars with this feature display an alert when the pressure is low in one or more tires. It should go off once you have added air, but if it stays on, there could be a problem with your TPMS. Our dealership can check to see if the system is malfunctioning.
Slip Indicator
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) is a common feature found on many cars today. A service light will blink to let you know when these features are being used. A TRAC or VSC light that stays on usually means the system's sensor needs to be repaired.
Charging System Warning Light
The battery in your car has to be charged while the car is in operation. This warning light means that your battery is not charging properly. You should seek the help of a professional before you continue driving the car. There could be a serious issue with your alternator.
Brake System
You will see a service warning indicator if a problem is detected with your ABS, but this is not a cause for panic. Your brakes are unlikely to fail immediately, but you do need to have them serviced and inspected to determine the issue.
Open Door Warning Light
The door to your trunk or one of the other doors is open. Locate the open door and make sure it is properly closed.
Coolant Level Warning
When the coolant in your car is low, there is a chance your engine could be damaged. You need to check and refill the coolant as soon as possible. Park the car until the radiator cap can be removed safely, refill with coolant as needed, and the light should go off.