Small Lights, Big Problems: What Your Dashboard is Telling You
As the chill of winter fades and spring rolls into Burnaby, many drivers start thinking about road trips, weekend getaways, and getting back outdoors. But before you hit the road, take a moment to check in with your vehicle—especially those warning lights on your dashboard. It’s easy to ignore them or put off repairs, but those little icons could alert you to serious issues that may lead to breakdowns or costly repairs.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive, we’ve seen it all—from minor sensor glitches to major engine failures that started with a simple warning light. You should never ignore the top five dashboard lights, what they mean, and why a spring diagnostic check could save you money—and your car.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is one of the most common and misunderstood dashboard warnings. When it comes on, it could mean something as simple as a loose gas cap or as serious as a misfiring engine. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore it, hoping it’ll go away.
This light is your vehicle’s way of telling you that the onboard diagnostics system has detected a problem. Common causes include:
• Faulty oxygen sensors
• Issues with the catalytic converter
• Ignition coil or spark plug failure
• Emissions control system problems
Ignoring this light could reduce fuel efficiency, engine damage, or even complete failure—turning a minor issue into a significant expense.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive in Burnaby, we use advanced diagnostic tools to scan your vehicle’s computer system and pinpoint the exact issue. Our experienced technicians will then walk you through the problem and recommend the right repair, saving you time, stress, and costly breakdowns later.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
When your oil pressure warning light comes on, it’s a red flag you should never ignore. This light usually indicates low oil pressure, which can stem from various issues—such as low oil levels, a failing oil pump, or even a leak somewhere in the system.
Motor oil plays a crucial role in lubricating your engine’s moving parts. Without enough pressure, the oil can’t circulate properly, leading to increased friction, overheating, and potential engine damage. In extreme cases, driving with low oil pressure could result in complete engine failure.
Some common causes include:
• Dirty or clogged oil filter
• Oil leaks due to worn seals or gaskets
• Using the wrong type of oil
Spring is the perfect time to check and change your oil, especially after winter, when cold temperatures can thicken oil and affect performance.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive, we’ll inspect your oil system, top off or change your oil, and ensure your engine is properly lubricated and protected—so you can hit the road with peace of mind this spring.
Battery Warning Light
If your battery warning light comes on while driving, it’s a sign that your vehicle’s charging system isn’t working correctly. While it may seem minor, ignoring this light could leave you stranded with a dead battery at the worst possible time.
This warning often points to:
• A failing alternator
• A loose or damaged battery cable
• Corroded terminals
• A worn-out battery
After a long, cold Burnaby winter, your battery may already be weakened. Cold temperatures drain battery power, and if it’s near the end of its lifespan, spring maybe when it finally gives out.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive, our technicians can test your battery’s condition, inspect the alternator and charging system, and replace any worn-out components before they cause a breakdown. Don’t wait for your car to refuse to start—spring is the ideal time to make sure your battery is road trip ready.
Brake System Warning
Light Your brake warning light is one of the most critical dashboard alerts you can see—and one you should never ignore. Whether it flickers intermittently or stays on solid, it’s your vehicle’s way of saying, “Check me now.”
This light may indicate:
• Low brake fluid levels
• Worn brake pads
• A malfunction in the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• A problem with the master cylinder
Driving with compromised brakes puts you, your passengers, and everyone on the road at serious risk—especially in spring, when wet roads and sudden weather changes can reduce traction.
If your brake light comes on, or you notice unusual noises, a soft pedal feel, or an increased stopping distance, it’s time to inspect your system immediately.
Crompton Brothers Automotive offers complete brake system diagnostics, fluid checks, and repairs using quality parts and decades of trusted experience. Don’t take chances—check your brakes before spring turns into summer.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
When the TPMS light appears on your dashboard, it means at least one of your tires is underinflated or overinflated—both of which can impact your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, and safety.
Tire pressure fluctuates with temperature, so it’s common for this light to appear during seasonal transitions—especially as Burnaby moves from cold winter days into warmer spring weather. Even slight pressure imbalances can lead to:
• Reduced traction on wet roads
• Increased tire wear
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Risk of tire blowouts
Ignoring this light can result in premature tire damage or a costly flat at an inconvenient time.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive, we’ll quickly assess your tire pressure, inspect for leaks, and help you determine if your tires are still in top condition. We also offer seasonal tire swaps, so if you’re still riding on winter tires, now’s the perfect time to switch to all-season or summer tires for better performance and fuel economy.
Don’t Ignore the Signs—Book Your Spring Diagnostic Today
Your dashboard warning lights are more than just glowing symbols—they’re your vehicle’s way of telling you something needs attention. Catching problems early can help you avoid breakdowns, reduce repair costs, and keep your car running safely all season, whether it’s your brakes, battery, engine, or tire pressure.
At Crompton Brothers Automotive in Burnaby, our experienced technicians use advanced diagnostics to quickly identify and resolve issues before they become expensive problems. With spring road trips and sunny weekends ahead, now’s the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is ready to roll.
