There is a simple answer if you see the warning light triangle with an exclamation point. This icon is the Car Stability Assist system of your vehicle and will flash your dashboard when a problem is detected with the system. It is not a reason to worry if that happens intermittently while you are driving, but it is definitely a reason to worry if that constantly happens or remains on for a longer period of time.
Learn in this article about the common reasons for the triangle with exclamation point symbol on the dash, what is the meaning and when you should be worried about it.
Table of Contents
When Triangle With Exclamation Point Is Normal?
Here is the list of circumstances when the exclamation mark light on the dash is a normal occurrence and it is not a reason to worry.
1. Traction Control Warning
Traction control uses wheel velocity sensors to identify the faster turning of one wheel than the other wheels. In this case, the ABS will slow down at the sliding wheel. After the slipping wheel slows down, it can hold the road again and release the brake on that bend.
2. Low Tyre Pressure
The aim of TPMS is to warn you about too low a tire pressure and potentially generate risky driving circumstances. TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System). It signifies you may underinflate your tires, which could lead to unnecessary pneumatic wear and potential tire failure when the indicator is lit. The simple thing to do is to look after your tires.
3. ABS System Flash
If you notice the light flash right after starting your car, it is only a self-checking process for your vehicle. If you are using the warning light, it signifies that the ABS doesn’t work properly. This is quite typical and means that the ABS system works normally
When Triangle Light Is A Cause Of Concern?
A stability control system also exists for many cars. The use of ABS is similarly utilized by stability control. This mechanism keeps the vehicle in the direction you like, even if the road is slippery and slipping. Both of these systems work together. so a breakdown in one of the systems will probably affect the other. Here are the common problems-
1. Bad Wheel Speed Sensor
On the dashboard, ABS, along with a triangle with exclamation point is a pointer towards speed sensor failure. The ABS Light usually illuminates when the sensor has been worn out, switched down, or hit through debris, which means you’re going to have to replace the speed sensor. Since the sensor also monitors the anti-lock braking systems on the vehicle.
2. Steering Angle Sensor Bad
When the sensor is wrong, incorrect, or damaged, it reads and delivers inexact information to the onboard computer of the vehicle. This is most situations leads to a “loose” condition in the steering wheel where your steering input is not reciprocated by the vehicle’s action.
3. Road Conditions Bad
You may not be able to handle your traction control system if the driving conditions are too harsh. For example, if you reside in a place where you find plenty of snow and ice, the roads will be hard to navigate.
4. Problem With The Power Steering
An engine-powered pump facilitates power steering. Because your motor is attached to your steering pump, any delay, fracture, corrosion or damage could cause your system to fail immediately. The wheels of the car become exponentially harder to rotate when the power steering fails. The wheels will turn, but the strength needed to achieve this can be unforeseen and difficult.
5. Issues With The Control Module
This identical symbol is used by European and Asian car manufacturers in two ways: an exclamation point in a triangle in yellow/amber. First, a malfunction and a slip indicator are indicated in the Stability Control System for the car.
Secondly, if the sub-components of the system such as some module or the ECU are at fault, then also it will cause the triangle with exclamation point to be lit constantly. It can also lead to some bigger failures in the future.
6. Limp Mode On
A safety feature in cars is the limp mode, which is sometimes known as ‘limp home mode,’ when a failure arises from the engine or transmission control device. Once a problem is discovered, limp mode causes the less vital sections of the automobile to switch off, such as air conditioning and reduces the speed of the car.
7. Manual Override Of Traction System
Many cars feature a button to disengage the traction or stability control systems. You can press them. If you are trapped in deep snow or mud, you may want to disable traction control. In rare circumstances, you can actually get a little wheel slide. Do not drive in this condition for a longer period of time as you can get yourself involved in an accident.
How Serious Is The Triangle Warning Light?
This symbol may be very scary, however, it often shows a minor aspect. It might be yellow or red and is marked by an exclaim in a triangle. The red version frequently includes a phrase that warns you of anything wrong and maybe serious, such as low oil pressures. If it is red, then get it checked as soon as possible. Also, tow your vehicle to the service center.
How Much Will It Cost To Fix Triangle Warning Light?
The typical cost for fixing a traction control switch is $100 to $1000, depending on the make and the model of the car. The cost of labor, at a price of $43, is estimated at between $39 and $51. Taxes and fees are not included.
Conclusion
These warning lights are not usually a cause for concern, as once the engine is running, they will come out. However, you have to know what they imply when you are driving, as some of them may be indicative of major problems. If the triangle with exclamation point is constantly lit in red color, then do not drive the car. If you still have any questions, then comment down below.