INDEPENDENT DEALER

   Mission, TX | (956) 458-9399

OUR BLOG

3/8/2017
Are your dash lights flashing strange symbols that you can't decipher? Are you looking to remove the oil indicator with a synthetic oil change? This article has the information and products you need.

Deciphering Your Dashboard

Vehicle technology is moving forward at a rapid rate. New safety additions and vehicle features mean there is always something happening inside the car beside you just driving it. Of course, the more features added means that there are more things which can go wrong. And when they do, you can bet that your dash will flash up an ambiguous light. This is where Oils RGV can help.

Somebody Reclining on a Sofa With an Exercise Ball on Their Lap

That reclined sofa is your or your passengers' seat, and the exercise ball is actually your airbag.  You probably see this light illuminate on for a few seconds each time that you switch on your vehicle. This is normal. What isn't normal is when the light remains on for longer than few seconds or turns on while you are driving. If either of these occurs, take your car to the mechanic straight away. If left unchecked, it could result in your airbag deploying when not required, such as during regular and safe driving, or not activate at all in the event that you do encounter a collision.

A Good Old Oil Can

If you can remember what a traditional oil-can used to look like, then you have an idea as to what this light might mean.
  • Oil Level
    • If your oil levels are running low or completely run out, then your engine is vulnerable to serious damage.
  • Oil Pressure
    • If you have an oil leak from your lines, then your oil system may not be able to maintain sufficient pressure.
If either of these has occurred, the first thing to do is pull over, switch off your car, and check your oil level. Make sure you only use the best products when you refill your oil, such as AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil. You can buy the best oil for your next synthetic oil change in Mission, TX by clicking here to visit Oils RGV's online store. Alternatively, give them a call at (956) 458-9399 to learn more about which oil is right for your engine.

An Open Parenthesis, a Circle With ABS Inside It, Then a Close Parentheses

Another serious light on your dash is the ABS light. This indicates there is an issue with the system that controls how your tires behave in the event of intense or emergency braking. Essentially it means that instead of your car coming to a controlled stop, there is a risk your tires could lock. If you see this light come on, give your mechanic a call and check that it's safe to take your car to them. Otherwise, get a mobile mechanic to come and take a look.

A Type of Pirate Ship at Half Mast

As amusing as it might be to imagine, it's actually telling you that your engine is overheating. This light comes one just before you begin to see steam coming from the hood of your car. When you see this light, pull over as quickly as you can and switch off the engine. Then, allow the engine sufficient time to cool down. Once it's cool, check your oil and coolant levels. Remember not to put cold coolant into a hot radiator as it can cause it to crack; further creating problems.

A Speeding Bullet

Despite how interesting it looks, this is actually the light to tell you that your high-beam headlamps are activated. The light is often colored purple.

A Battery

It's hard to not recognize a battery. Most motorists assume that this means they need a new (and potentially costly) battery and ignore it until their car doesn't start. If you see this light, don't get out your wallet just yet. While it does mean that there is a concern with your battery, it could be that the connections are not tight or there is corrosion on your terminals. Both of these are solved with a little home-garage maintenance.

Only Use the Best Synthetic Oil Change Products in Mission, TX

If you still can't find out what your car is telling you, give your manufacturer a call and see if they can help. If the cure is something as simple as topping up your fluids, get the best products for the job by clicking to view the online store. If you prefer, give Oils RGV a call at (956) 458-9399 to speak with an oil expert to get further professional advice.