What Do Dashboard Warning Lights Mean in Your Hyundai?

You’re heading out on a road trip, everything packed, and the drive finally feels like it’s starting off right. Then, out of nowhere, a dashboard warning light pops on. It triggers a bit of stress or even panic because you are not sure whether it’s serious or if you can continue driving. To help you avoid that situation where you are unsure what to do next, read on with our team at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai as we break down what those lights mean, from the Check Engine Light, Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light, ABS Warning Light, and Low Tire Pressure Warning Light, along with a few other common indicators, and what steps you should take next.

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Why is Your Check Engine Light On?

Hyundai Warning Lights Diagnostic

9 Common Hyundai Dashboard Warning Lights Explained in Midland, ON

1. Parking Brake Warning Light

This light will come on when you start your vehicle and the Engine Start/Stop button is in the ON position, then usually turns off after a few seconds once the parking brake is released. It will also light up anytime the parking brake is engaged. However, if it stays on after the parking brake has been fully released, it could be a sign that your brake fluid is running low. Since that can affect how your brakes perform, it’s important to have it checked by an authorized Hyundai technician at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai as soon as possible.

2. Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light

If the ABS light stays on while you’re driving, it means the anti-lock braking system may not be working in order. Your regular brakes will still function, so you can safely stop the vehicle, but the ABS feature, which helps prevent wheel lock during sudden braking, may be disabled. Because ABS plays a role in keeping control during emergency stops, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by the team at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai if the light doesn’t go away.

3. Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) Warning light

When this light comes on, it means there’s a potential issue with your power steering system. You might see the steering wheel feels a bit harder to turn, since the power assist may not be working in order. You’ll still be able to steer the vehicle, but it won’t feel as easy. It’s safe to drive for a short distance if needed, but you should contact one of our service advisors at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai as soon as possible so we can take a closer look.

4. Charging System Warning Light

If this light comes on while you’re driving, it usually means there’s an issue with your vehicle’s charging system, most commonly the alternator or something connected to it. If it pops up, try to stay calm and head to a safe place when you can. Once you’re parked, turn the engine off and take a look under the hood if you’re comfortable doing so. Sometimes it can be something simple like a loose or broken alternator belt. If everything looks fine but the light is still on, it’s likely a deeper electrical issue. At that point, it’s best to have it checked by a Hyundai technician so you don’t end up getting stuck unexpectedly.

5. Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

If this light comes on, it most likely means the engine oil pressure is too low. The safest move is to find a safe place to pull over as soon as possible and turn the engine off. Once stopped, you can check the engine oil level. If it’s low, topping it up may solve the issue. If the light stays on even after adding oil, or if you don’t have any oil available, it’s important not to keep driving. At that point, the vehicle should be inspected by an authorized Hyundai dealer right away.

6. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)

Malfunction Indicator Lamp, also known as the check engine light. If you see this light come on when you start your vehicle, that part is normal. It should turn on for a few seconds and then go off if everything is working properly. However, if it stays on while you’re driving, it means there’s a potential issue with the engine, emissions system, or powertrain. When that happens, continuing to drive isn’t a great idea. Give us a call at 705-540-8015, and we can assist you with what to do next.

7. Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Warning Light

Normally, the EPB is there to make parking more convenient with just the push of a button. But, when something isn’t working properly, this warning light will appear to let you know the system needs attention. You may still be able to drive the vehicle, but the parking brake itself might not engage. So, it’s a good idea to have it inspected by the team at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai.

8. Low Tire Pressure Warning Light

The low tire pressure warning light is not a stranger to drivers in Midland. It usually means one or more of your tires are running low on air. It often shows up when temperatures drop or after some everyday driving, and it will turn off as long as the tire pressure is brought back to the proper level. Just keep in mind, the system can only warn you about gradual pressure loss. It will not always detect sudden tire damage from things like potholes or road hazards.

9. LED Headlamp Warning Light

If this light stays on while you are driving, it means there may be an issue with your LED headlamp system. You might also see it blink, which can point to a problem with a related component in the headlamp system. Driving with this light on or blinking for too long can shorten the lifespan of your LED headlamps, so it’s a good idea to have your vehicle checked by the team at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai.

Book a Service Appointment at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai in Midland, ON

If a dashboard warning light has you second-guessing what is going on, the best move is to get it checked at Bourgeois Midland Hyundai. Call us at 705-540-8015 or fill out this form online to schedule a warning light diagnostic service, and leave the rest to our team, today!