What Your Honda Warning Lights Are Telling You

Your Honda dashboard is more than just a display for speed and fuel levels. It is also an important communication tool that alerts you to potential issues with your vehicle. Understanding Honda warning lights can help you address problems early, avoid costly repairs, and keep your vehicle running smoothly. At Underriner Honda of Walla Walla, we want to help you decode these warning lights so you know when to take action.

The check engine light is one of the most common dashboard warnings, and it can indicate a wide range of issues. It may appear as a yellow engine symbol or the words “Check Engine.” This light can signal anything from a loose gas cap to a serious engine problem.

If your check engine light comes on, do not panic. Start by checking your gas cap to make sure it is tightly secured. If the light remains on after tightening the cap, schedule a diagnostic appointment at our service center in College Place. Our certified technicians can use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the exact cause of the issue.

Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious problems down the road. Even if your vehicle seems to be running fine, an illuminated check engine light often indicates an underlying issue that should be addressed promptly.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System, or TPMS, light looks like a tire with an exclamation point inside. This warning indicates that one or more of your tires has low air pressure. Proper tire inflation is essential for safe handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.

Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so you may see this light more frequently during the winter months in College Place. Check your tire pressure with a gauge and inflate your tires to the recommended PSI, which is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. If the light stays on after inflating your tires, you may have a slow leak or a faulty sensor that needs attention.

The battery warning light typically looks like a battery symbol or the letters “BATT.” This light indicates an issue with your charging system, which may involve the battery, alternator, or related components. If this light comes on while driving, your vehicle may lose power, and you could become stranded.

Pull over safely and turn off any non-essential electrical systems, such as the radio and air conditioning. Contact our service department for assistance. If your battery warning light appears, do not delay in getting your vehicle inspected. Battery and alternator problems can worsen quickly, especially in cold weather.

The brake system warning light is usually a red symbol that says “BRAKE” or looks like an exclamation point inside a circle. This light can indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a malfunction in your braking system. Because brakes are critical for your safety, you should never ignore this warning.

If the brake warning light comes on, check your brake fluid level first. If the fluid is low, add the recommended type and have your brakes inspected immediately. Do not continue driving if the light remains on, as this could indicate a serious brake issue that puts you and others at risk.

The oil pressure warning light looks like an oil can with a drop of oil. This light indicates low oil pressure, which can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed immediately. Low oil pressure may be caused by low oil levels, a failing oil pump, or a leak.

If this light appears, pull over as soon as it is safe and turn off your engine. Check your oil level using the dipstick. If the oil is low, add the appropriate type of oil and have your vehicle inspected by our technicians. Driving with low oil pressure can cause permanent engine damage.

Honda vehicles are equipped with a Maintenance Minder system that tracks your vehicle’s service needs based on driving conditions. The Maintenance Minder indicator displays codes such as A, B, or a combination of numbers that correspond to specific maintenance tasks.

For example, an “A” code indicates it is time for an oil change, while a “B” code means your vehicle is due for an oil change and additional inspections. Follow the Maintenance Minder recommendations to keep your Honda in optimal condition. Our service team can reset the Maintenance Minder after completing the recommended services.

The Anti-Lock Braking System, or ABS, light looks like the letters “ABS” inside a circle. This light indicates a problem with your ABS, which helps prevent your wheels from locking up during hard braking. While your regular brakes will still function, the ABS feature will not work until the issue is resolved.

If the ABS light comes on, have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible. Our technicians can diagnose and repair ABS issues to restore full braking functionality.

The airbag warning light typically displays the word “AIRBAG” or a symbol of a person with a seatbelt and airbag. This light indicates a malfunction in your airbag system, which means your airbags may not deploy in the event of a collision. This is a serious safety concern that requires immediate attention.

Do not ignore the airbag warning light. Schedule a service appointment right away so our technicians can diagnose and repair the issue. Your safety and the safety of your passengers depend on properly functioning airbags.

Many newer Honda models, including the CR-V Hybrid and Accord, come equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features. Honda Sensing includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, and Adaptive Cruise Control, all designed to prevent accidents and keep you safe.

By maintaining your vehicle and addressing warning lights promptly, you can ensure that these advanced safety systems function properly when you need them most.