How to Check Car Gages

Reading car gages is a driver's job.

A car has many different parts that operate using a variety of fluids and pressures. All are tracked using a series of gages that you see everyday on your dashboard. Each one of these gages relates to a specific function like oil pressure, engine temperature and gas. If you know how to read them properly, you will be able to get on top of repairs and problems before they become too severe.

Instructions

1. Turn the car on and let it run for several minutes. The car gages only work properly when the car is running.

2. Check the oil pressure gage on your car. It is located on the right on most cars beside the speedometer and it has a symbol of an oil can below it. Note where the needle is pointed on the white dial. If it is pointed to the left or too low, this indicates a loss or lack of oil pressure. Your oil pan or oil system may be damaged and need repair.

3. Read the temperature gage. Note where the needle is on this instrument. It should be less than halfway up the white dial and under 200 degrees Fahrenheit. If it goes above this number, your radiator is failing and must be replaced, or you need to add coolant to the vehicle.

4. Read the battery voltage gage which is located above or below the oil gauge on most cars and has a symbol of a battery on it. This reading should be relatively high on the white dial--between 12 and 24 volts depending on your car battery. If it is low, the battery may be dead, or the alternator could be failing.

References

• Autos.com

Resources

• Videojug: Checking Car Tire Pressure