- Dash lights are the lights that light up your car's dashboard instrument panel. Originally they were primarily installed so the driver could see the instruments, such as the speedometer in low light conditions. The use of dash lights has evolved over the years to be part of the safety features in automobiles and as warnings to indicate potential hazards, such as low oil pressure, engine servicing due and the car door being ajar while in motion.
- With the original Ford Model T there was no such instrument as a dash light. Starting in 1940 and lasting through 1960 auto manufacturers in the United States primary focus with the dashboard was based on style and design to improve the look of the auto. They used chrome and transparent plastic that reflected the sun in such a way that made reading the instruments a challenge. Better use of the dashboard for safety purposes began in the early 1960s and has steadily advanced through the years with advances in technology.
- Dash lights come in a variety of functions, locations and even colors--all depending on your make and model of vehicles. When it comes to color patterns, red illumination is usually reserved for emergency displays. Green lights normally are used for turn signals and yellow lights for cautionary non-critical indications such as wiper fluid running low. The color of dash lights can also be used in other configurations, again depending on the car you are driving.
- The benefits of dash lights are improved safety, especially when driving during night time conditions. There is peace of mind understanding that your safety system is tied directly into your display lights to warn you when there is an issue with your auto. In addition, properly operating dash lights allow the driver to be able to see the instrument panel at night, preventing speeding and allowing for monitoring of major car systems such as the coolant system, engine tachometer and other features.
- Power to the dash lights is regulated by a fuse box located in the driver's compartment of your car. The fuse box is covered by a panel that protects the fuses from damage. If your headlights, break lights or signal lights go out, the first thing to check would be your fuse box, because under normal operating conditions your fuses will burn out before your dash lights will. Fuses can be changed by removing the panel then removing the old burned out fuse and exchanging it with the proper replacement. Fuses are color coded and the amps are written on your fuse box panel as well as on the fuse itself. Replacing a bad fuse with the wrong fuse can cause unforeseen damage to your auto's electrical system.
