What does it mean when your battery light and check engine light comes on?

The battery light will come on if the charging system and battery voltage drops below a minimum set by the factory. The check engine light is letting you know that there is a problem that a code has been set in memory that can be diagnosed. Check the charging system and repair or replace the alternator as needed.

What does a red battery light on the dash indicate when the engine is running?

CARS.COM — If the battery warning light (a light in the shape of a battery symbol) on the dashboard comes on while you’re driving, that means the charging system isn’t working, but the fault may lie in something other than the battery. The alternator generates the power that is stored in the battery.

Can a bad serpentine belt cause battery light to come on?

A failing alternator belt can cause the Battery Light to turn on, dimming or flickering lights in the car, and engine stalls.

How long can you drive with a battery light on?

You can drive the car with the battery light on but you will only have on average 15 minutes. After roughly 15 minutes, your car will run out of electrical power and the car will stall.

What does a bad alternator belt sound like?

Symptoms of a broken serpentine belt include loud slapping, squealing or knocking noises coming from under the hood. The battery-shaped charging system warning light might also come on because the alternator will stop charging the battery.

Is it bad to drive with the battery light on?

Driving with your Battery Light on is not a good idea. If the battery is bad, the alternator is faulty, or the wiring is bad, these can cause the vehicle to lose power and not operate like it normally would. The battery powers essential parts of your car, so it is a must have piece of equipment.

Why are all the dash lights coming on?

The dash lights coming on and vehicle shutting down are, most likely, related to a charging system problem. It’s fairly common for all the dash lights to come on with no alternator output, low voltage can cause unusual electrical issues.

What to do if your car dashboard warning light is still flashing?

Avoid heavy acceleration and high engine speed and stop the vehicle. Restart the engine after 2 minutes to reset the engine management system. If the light is still flashing, turn off the engine and contact us to report your breakdown.

What does the warning light on the dashboard mean?

Your owner’s manual will tell you how. If the light still shows, turn off the engine and contact us to report your breakdown. If the warning light’s on when the oil level’s right, there’s a problem with the oil supply. That could be caused by the oil pump or a blocked oil filter.

What does it mean when Battery Light comes on while car is running?

When you first turn on your car with the engine off, the battery light will illuminate and this is normal. If the battery light comes on while the engine is running and the vehicle is being driven, this indicates a problem with the charging system. Step 1: Turn off everything that draws power.

Where are the lights on the dashboard located?

Most vehicles have a dashboard lights control switch that will dim the dashboard lights, as well as turn them off. Check the control switch, which should be located on the console near the steering column or part of the headlight switch. Tail lights and dash lights are connected through the tail light (and/or brake light) fuse.

How are the tail lights and dash lights connected?

Tail lights and dash lights are connected through the tail light (and/or brake light) fuse. When the dashboard goes dark you know you are driving without tail lights. Make certain to use the exact replacement dashboard light fuse to avoid the potential of electrical failure in your vehicle’s dashboard.

How can i dim the lights on my dashboard?

Put the key in the ignition and turn it to the “on” or “accessory” position. Then, turn on your headlights. Locate the dimmer switch for your lights. Most vehicles have a dashboard light control switch that will dim the dashboard lights as well as turn them off.

Why are the lights on my dash not working?

Flip the switch or turn the dial or knob up and see if the lights on your dash come on or get brighter. If adjusting the switch doesn’t work, you may have a blown fuse or bad lightbulb. Or, the entire switch may be faulty, in which case, have it replaced by a certified mechanic.