Tag: warning lights
35 Posts


Mar 19, 2020
Is This Subaru Spinning its Wheels?
A traction control light might illuminate a different problem

Apr 23, 2015
Oil Pressure Mystery: Stephen's GMC Envoy
The oil pressure in Stephen's GMC Envoy is acting up, fine one minute, warning lights the next. Is he damaging the engine if he drives it while it's doing this? Car Talk's take, here.

Dec 11, 2014
Time to Feed the Guppies?
Kathleen wants to know why there's a warning light on her mom's minivan that looks like a yellow-orange fishbowl. Our verdict? Bad icon design. Now Car Talk wants to know: What do you see?

Oct 03, 2013
The Case of the Disappearing Dashboard Lights
Steve is a private eye, but there's one case he hasn't been able to crack--the dashboard lights in his surveillance van flicker on and off while he's driving. Can Tom and Ray solve this mystery? How much scratch will Steve have to lay down to fix his little problem? Ever wonder what private eyes drive nowadays? Find out, right here.

Mar 14, 2013
Tell Me Again Why They're Called "Idiot Lights"...
Travis's Subaru was running hot, but he was almost to his destination so he kept driving. Then he drove home again. Tom and Ray say there are a couple circumstances where the "wait until you get home to figure out what's wrong" approach can cost you several thousands of dollars, and this is one of them. Find out why you should always pull over if your car is running hot, right here.

Dec 20, 2011
Today: The Case of the Missing Fuel Cap Flap
Kate tries to get to the bottom of the "check fuel cap" light that keeps appearing on her dash. Is she looking at a costly visit to the dealer?

Aug 01, 2010
Is that nagging brake light a big deal for Emma?
I remember listening to your radio show, "Car Talk," with my parents when I was a little kid, and hearing my mom say about a billion times that one of you had the same kind of car she had. That...

May 01, 2010
Every wonder how the "Low Tire Pressure" warning light works?
I have enjoyed your column for years and have always admired your bottomless knowledge and advice for car owners, abusers, know-nothings and BYMs (backyard mechanics). I have but one question I need you to resolve, and then I can drive...
