How to Identify Warning Lights on a Toyota Camry

The warning lights on a Toyota Camry help to alert the driver of any problems. Warning lights typically come on when there is a malfunction with one or more of the Camry's electronic or electronic-related components. The information is sent to the vehicle's electronic control unit, or ECU. The ECU can then display this information to the driver. However, you need to know how to identify the warning light so that you don't ignore a potentially important problem.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn the ignition key to the "II" position.

   • 2

     Check the lights on the dash. You should see a variety of dash lights light up. One of those lights will be a "Check engine" light. This light should stay lit with the ignition key in the "II" position. The rest of the lights should go out. If the "Check engine" light begins to blink, you may have a problem with one of the vehicle's electronic components. Consult your owner's manual or call your dealership for possible servicing issues.

   • 3

     Start the engine. The "check engine" light should go out after a few seconds. If it does not, this can indicate either a maintenance interval has been reached or a more serious problem with the vehicle's emissions control system. Again, it is advised to consult your owner's manual or call the dealership for service.

   • 4

     Check for an illuminated "SRS" light on the dash. The SRS light indicates a problem with the supplemental restraint system, i.e., the airbag, on the Camry. This needs to be serviced by a professional mechanic.

   • 5

     Check for an oil light on the dash. The oil light is in the shape of a small oil canister. When this lights up, it indicates low oil pressure. Low oil pressure is caused by a blockage in the system, a weak oil pickup or oil pump, or low oil levels in the engine. Check and see if your Camry is overdue for an oil change. It is recommended that the oil be changed at 5,000 miles or every six months.

   • 6

     Check for the low fuel warning. The fuel light on the Camry is on the fuel gauge near the "E" on the gauge face. The low fuel light means that you have to refuel your vehicle.

   • 7

     Check for the seat belt warning light. The seat belt warning light is a picture of a figure wearing a seat belt. If your seat belt is unbuckled, then this light will illuminate (along with a warning chime) indicating that you should buckle up.

   • 8

     Check for an orange car with lights on (on the dash lights). This warning light indicates that one or both of your brake lights has failed, or the electrical resistance in the bulb filament indicates that it is about to fail and will need service soon.