Motoring corner With Carlover:Watch your warning lights (Cont’d)”

AS we earlier on said, the warning lights are no joking matter, the engine coolant temperature, like the engine oil, are very vital utilities. They perform equally important functions. The engine coolant temperature warning light commonly displays a thermometer symbol or the logo “TEMP.” When the coolant temperature light illuminates, the engine temperature has exceeded the safe maximum.Until the rise in coolant temperature is reversed, the engine will suffer accelerated wear. If the increase in temperature continues, major engine damage or catastrophic failure will result. Your engine could knock, gaskets may burn out, oil could burn or evaporate, etc. The coolant temperature warning light is second only to the oil pressure warning light in indicating the potential for serious mechanical damage. However, the coolant temperature light does give you a little more time in which to take appropriate action. If the coolant temperature warning light comes on, quickly assess the situation. Steam or liquid coolant coming from under the hood is clear indications of overheating and/or a leak. Pull off the road at the first safe opportunity and call a specialist for assistance. A lack of steam or leaking coolant does not mean it is safe to drive the vehicle. Continuing to operate an engine with an illuminated temperature warning light will result in a major damage and a significant repair bill.Caution! Boiling coolant can cause severe burns! Do not attempt to open the hood in the presence of excessive steam, and never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The cooling system is under pressure and scalding coolant will be expelled with great force. As we previously said, every good driver should always pay attention and heed their car’s cry for attention and should be aware of the red and yellow indicators on the dashboard panel that illuminate to let you know when a problem occurs. These range from low fuel, open doors, seat belts, bad light bulbs, faulty knock sensors, low oil, etc. Charging System; this is one of the most important subsystems, it provides the power needed to run all the vital parts of any vehicle. The charging system warning light commonly displays a battery symbol or the logo “ALT” or “GEN.” When the charging system warning light illuminates, the vehicle electrical system is no longer being supplied with power by the alternator.A charging system failure rarely results in serious mechanical damage, and of the “big three” warning lights, this one gives you the greatest amount of time to take appropriate action. Depending on the electrical demands of your vehicle, and the reserve capacity of its battery, you will generally have at least 20 minutes of daylight driving time before voltage drops to the point where the ignition system will no longer function and the engine will quit.If the charging system warning light comes on, turn off all unnecessary electrical accessories and drive to the nearest repair facility to have the vehicle checked. If you are some distance from a repair shop, drive to a safe location where you can call an Auto Expert to have your vehicle towed to an Approved Auto Repair facility.

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Motoring corner With Carlover:Watch your warning lights (Cont’d)”