Dashboard lights may look pretty, but they are there for a reason. When a light comes on your dashboard don’t ignore it – take it for what it is: a warning of problems to come. If you pay attention to what your vehicle is trying to tell you and act on any warnings that you notice, you could help to prevent further damage to your vehicle. You never know, it could even save your life.
Here’s what you need to know about your battery fault warning light, or the electrical fault warning light.
Unlike the oil and brake lights, different vehicle manufacturers have different symbols for the electrical fault warning light. Often, however, the symbol looks like a battery.
When it Comes On
The battery charge warning lights comes on as soon as you switch your engine on, but it will normally go out again immediately. You need to pay attention if either the battery warning light fails to come on at all, or it stays on, failing to go out after the start the engine.
Why it Comes On
You need your battery to kick your engine into action: the battery holds enough charge to start your vehicle’s engine and operate electrical items such as lights, radio and central locking. As you drive, the battery is recharged, so it has enough power to start again next time. If the warning light comes on, it is telling you that your battery isn’t being charged – this could be for one of several reasons including a loose battery, alternator failure or broken or loose alternator drive belt.
What to Do
If your battery charge warning light comes on, drive straight to your local garage. You can’t harm your vehicle by driving with the battery warning light flashing, and it doesn’t mean that you need a new battery. However, as you drive, your car draws energy from the battery. If your battery isn’t being charged as you drive, it will quickly drain; if you drive for too long, you could end up with a totally flat battery, in which case nothing will work (not even central locking!). So, don’t stop off on the way, don’t take the scenic route: get your vehicle to a garage as soon as you see that little battery icon flash up on your dashboard.
The reason for your power connection light coming on may not be bad news. Whatever the cause of the light, getting your alternator and battery checked before your vehicle breaks down completely is a much better solution.