That sudden appearance of a dashboard warning light can be alarming. You're driving along, everything seems fine, and then—a yellow or red symbol illuminates on your instrument panel. At Kool Chevrolet in Grand Rapids, MI, we hear this concern daily: "What does this dashboard light mean?" Those warning lights are your vehicle's communication system, speaking to you about its health and safety. Understanding this language can prevent minor issues from becoming major repairs.
Modern Chevrolets feature sophisticated monitoring systems that display information through standardized symbols. When you start your vehicle, you'll see a brief display of all symbols—this is a system self-check. This guide serves as your translator for Chevrolet dashboard warnings, explaining what each light means and the appropriate action to take, whether you're driving a Silverado, Equinox, Traverse, or any other Chevy model.
Critical Red Warning Lights: Stop Immediately
Red warning lights indicate immediate danger or serious problems that require stopping the vehicle as soon as safely possible. Ignoring these can lead to severe vehicle damage or safety hazards.
Engine Oil Pressure Light
This light comes on when you turn your engine on. If it illuminates while driving, it indicates low oil pressure, which could mean you're running low on oil or that the oil pump is malfunctioning. Driving with this warning can cause severe engine damage within minutes. Pull over safely, shut off the engine immediately, and check your oil level. If low, add oil; if not, you need professional assistance.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
This light briefly comes on at startup. If it stays on or illuminates while driving, your vehicle has overheated. Driving with this light can damage the engine and may void warranty coverage. If you see this light, pull over and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Plan for your vehicle to be towed to our service center at Kool Chevrolet.
Brake System Warning Light
This light flashes at startup to show it's working. If it comes on and stays on while driving, there's a problem with your brakes or brake fluid is low. Pull over as soon as safe and stop carefully. Your vehicle speed may be limited, the brake pedal may be harder to push, and stopping distance may increase. If the light stays on after stopping, have the vehicle towed to Kool Chevrolet for service.
Important Yellow/Orange Warning Lights: Get Checked Soon
Yellow or orange lights mean caution—get it checked soon. While not immediately dangerous, ignoring these warnings can lead to more serious problems and expensive repairs.
Check Engine Light
This light indicates your vehicle has detected a malfunction with the engine or propulsion system. You should get your Chevrolet serviced as soon as possible. You may see this light before noticing any driving problems. If the light is flashing red, stop driving immediately as this indicates a severe engine misfire that could damage the catalytic converter. For EVs, this light may appear during charging problems.
Charging System Light
This light comes on briefly at startup. If it stays on or appears while driving, there may be a problem with your vehicle's electrical system. Get your vehicle serviced immediately at Kool Chevrolet. Driving with this light on can drain your 12-volt battery. If you must drive a short distance, turn off electrical features like the radio to conserve power.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
If equipped with TPMS, this light flashes at startup. If it stays on, one or more tires are significantly underinflated. If it keeps flashing, the TPMS may need service. Check your Owner's Manual for troubleshooting. Proper tire inflation affects fuel efficiency, handling, braking, and tire lifespan. Visit Kool Chevrolet for tire service and TPMS diagnostics.
Safety System Warning Lights
Airbag Readiness Light
This light flashes at startup. If it stays on, there's a problem with your airbag system requiring immediate service. You may see a message in your instrument panel. Take your vehicle to Kool Chevrolet for service as soon as possible to ensure your safety systems function properly.
Traction Control System
This light flashes at startup. If flashing while driving, TCS/ESC is actively working. If solid (not flashing), there may be a problem and the systems may not help maintain control. See your dealer for service as soon as possible.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
This light flashes at startup. If it comes on while driving, your vehicle needs service. If only the ABS light is on, regular brakes work but ABS doesn't. If both ABS and brake system lights are on, ABS isn't working AND there's a problem with regular brakes. Visit Kool Chevrolet for service.
Seat Belt and Safety Reminder Lights
Seat Belt Reminder Lights
You'll see driver, front passenger, and rear passenger seat belt reminder lights if seat belts are unbuckled at startup. They flash initially and stay lit if occupants don't buckle up. Most vehicles have weight sensors, so even a heavy bag on the passenger seat can trigger the reminder. Always fasten seatbelts before driving—your safety system depends on it.
Door Ajar Light
This light comes on when a door is open or not fully latched. Before driving, ensure all doors are fully closed for safety and to prevent damage to door mechanisms. This warning helps ensure all occupants are safely inside before driving.
Security Light
If equipped with a theft-deterrent system, this light flashes at startup to show it's working. If it doesn't flash, see your dealer. If it stays on and the engine doesn't start, there could be a problem with the theft-deterrent system requiring service at Kool Chevrolet.
Low Fuel Warning Light
This light flashes at startup and comes on when fuel is low. Refuel when possible. If it stays on after refueling, bring your vehicle to Kool Chevrolet for service. While tempting to test your range, running on empty can damage the fuel pump over time and leave you stranded.
Driver Assistance Feature Warning Lights
Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
White: system not active. Green: active and assisting. Orange/amber: system detected you may have unintentionally crossed lane lines. The orange/amber icon disappears once you're back in lane. You can turn LKA off in Settings or via steering wheel controls.
Forward Collision Alert
Green: detects vehicle ahead. Orange/amber: you may be tailgating. If orange/amber, slow down and increase following distance. These systems help prevent accidents by alerting you to potential collisions. Can be turned off in Settings.
Automatic Emergency Braking
If you've set Forward Collision Alert/AEB to "Alert Only" or "Off," this icon appears to show automatic braking is disabled. For maximum safety, change settings to "Alert and Brake" to turn automatic braking back on.
Adaptive Cruise Control
White: ACC is on but no following gap set. Green: ACC is active and maintaining a set following gap. Some systems include curve speed control that automatically slows your vehicle through curves. These advanced systems make highway driving more comfortable and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if multiple dashboard warning lights come on at once?
Multiple warning lights illuminating simultaneously usually indicates an electrical or system-wide issue. Safely pull over and schedule service at Kool Chevrolet right away. This could indicate problems with your vehicle's computer system or a serious mechanical issue needing immediate attention.
Can I drive with my check engine light on?
If solid yellow, you can typically drive short distances to a service center. However, if flashing red, stop driving immediately as this indicates a severe engine misfire that could cause catalytic converter damage. Continuing to drive with a flashing check engine light can lead to expensive repairs.
How do I reset service lights after maintenance?
Many Chevrolets let you reset service lights through dashboard settings or specific procedures (like turning the key while pressing certain buttons). If not, our technicians at Kool Chevrolet can handle it during your visit. Some warning lights require professional diagnostic tools to reset properly.
Are all dashboard warning lights universal?
Most symbols are standardized across manufacturers, but some Chevrolet-specific alerts may vary slightly. Always check your owner's manual for accurate information about your specific vehicle's warning lights, or visit Kool Chevrolet for clarification.
What's the difference between red and yellow warning lights?
Red warning lights indicate immediate danger or serious problems requiring stopping as soon as safely possible. Yellow or orange lights mean caution—you should have the issue addressed soon, but it's not an immediate emergency. Ignoring either can lead to expensive repairs.
Why do all the lights come on when I start my car?
This is normal! When starting your vehicle, all warning lights briefly illuminate as part of a bulb check to ensure they're working properly. They should turn off within seconds once the system completes its self-diagnosis. If any light remains on, it indicates an issue needing attention.
Don't Ignore Your Dashboard Warnings
At Kool Chevrolet in Grand Rapids, MI, we understand how confusing dashboard warning lights can be. Whether it's a check engine light, TPMS alert, or another warning, our certified technicians can diagnose and fix issues quickly so you can drive with confidence. Understanding your Chevrolet's dashboard isn't just about peace of mind—it's about safety, performance, and keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come.