Ford Dashboard Light Guide

A Guide To Ford Dashboard Lights

While some drivers know what all the little lights on their dashboard mean, many are still confused when one turns on. Some indicators are harmless, like the turn signal indicator, but others can mean something could seriously be wrong with your car. That's why it's important to know what all the lights mean when they come on, to prevent any further headaches. Consult your owner's manual for more specific information on the indicators in your particular Ford model. Here are some of the more common dashboard lights and indicators that you may see.

Dashboard Light	Meaning
	Stability Control The roads are slick! You'll see this light come on when your car's traction control is in use during inclement weather. If you're near the Yankton area, you're probably going to see this light come on from time to time.
	Powertrain Fault This light suggests there's a problem with your engine, axles, or ability to shift gears, such as with your automatic transmission system. Set an appointment for service as soon as you can.
	Master Warning Light This light indicates a general warning that something is wrong. It could be as simple as a door that was left open or as serious as engine trouble. In most cases, however, another warning light or worded message will appear on your instrument panel to give you a better idea of the problem.
	Low Wiper Fluid Wiper fluid helps you clear dirt from your windshield and can stop the wipers from scratching up the glass. Top off your supply when this light brightens.
	Low Tire Pressure Warning A tire needs more air to create a more ideal pressure, meaning you should find a gas station with an air pump. Consult your owner's manual, pump your tires and check the PSI with a tire pressure gauge. The light should turn off in a few minutes after the pressure is corrected.
	Headlight Out One of your headlight bulbs is burned out, or is not working for some other reason. Take it in before you get pulled over!
	Engine Oil Warning This light indicates the oil pressure in your vehicle is low. It's time for an oil change and an inspection. Engine oil helps prevent your engine from overheating, lubricates moving parts, and cleans the engine system.
	Engine Coolant Temperature Your engine's temperature has become abnormally high in your vehicle. Stop the car and turn off the engine immediately so that it can cool down, then get it looked at as soon as possible.
	Device Failure You might have a problem with your car's throttle or another facet of your electronic power control system. Get a service appointment as soon as you can.
	Electronic Power Steering Trouble If you see this symbol come on, pull over to the side of the road when it is safe to do so, turn off your car, and then turn it back on again to see if this light persists. If it does, you're likely experiencing power steering failure. You can still drive under these circumstances, but one of the trips you should take within the next week should be to have your car looked at.
	Electronic Parking Brake This light being on could mean the electric park brake is in use. However, if the light flashes or is accompanied by an exclamation point or wrench, there is likely an issue with this system.
	Check Engine Light Everyone's favorite. It means there's a problem with the engine, and it may lead to the system functioning abnormally. There are several possible causes for this light, so be sure to bring your vehicle to us as soon as possible for inspection.
	Charging System If you see this light, pop the hood. The battery voltage level is low, possibly due to a broken fan belt, faulty wiring or even simply the age of the battery. If you don't find anything wrong, bring your car in for diagnosis.
	Brake System Warning This could mean that your emergency brake is engaged, so check that first. Otherwise, it likely speaks to a problem with your braking system that needs to be checked out as quickly as possible, especially if the weather is icy.
	Air Bag Warning While you may hope never to need your car's airbags, they are crucial for keeping you and your family safe in an accident. If this symbol lights up, there could be a problem with one or more of your car's airbags, so it's smart to get your car serviced ASAP.
	Anti-Lock Brakes This light can mean one of four things: your parking brake is on while driving, the brake fluid is low, there's an ABS problem or there is a bigger issue with the braking system. Release the parking brake and have your brake fluid checked.