What does a faucet symbol on the car dashboard indicate?
2 Answers
When a faucet symbol appears on the car dashboard, it indicates the engine malfunction indicator light. If the engine malfunction light stays on continuously, you should stop the vehicle and call for professional assistance. However, in many cases, a continuously illuminated engine malfunction light does not signify a major issue—it could be a false alarm or a minor problem that doesn't affect driving. In such situations, you can safely drive to a repair facility for troubleshooting. The engine malfunction light is triggered by the ECU (Engine Control Unit), commonly referred to as the car's computer. The ECU controls all electronic components of the engine, including the electronic throttle, fuel injectors, alternator, fuel injection pump, catalytic converter, and more, covering systems such as intake, exhaust, fuel delivery, ignition, and timing.
Yesterday while driving, I suddenly noticed a yellow faucet icon pop up on the dashboard. Actually, this is the engine malfunction warning light, like the car shouting at you 'Check my heart ASAP'. I immediately pulled over to check the dipstick, thankfully the oil level was normal. An experienced driver told me there are typically three reasons for this light: excessive exhaust emissions, poor fuel quality, or a sensor acting up. Especially for cars that frequently refuel at private gas stations, the impurities in low-quality fuel can easily trigger this light. The safest approach is not to push your luck – head straight to a repair shop to read the trouble codes. Minor issues might just cost a few dozen bucks to fix by replacing a pipe.
