
When a sun with an exclamation mark appears on the car dashboard, it indicates a transmission fault. This warning light will illuminate when the vehicle is started. If the light remains on without turning off, it may suggest a component failure in the transmission system, requiring prompt attention from the owner to prevent further damage. Here is an introduction to common faults in automatic transmissions: Delayed Upshifting in Automatic Transmission: During driving, if the upshift speed exceeds the standard value, or if the accelerator pedal needs to be pressed earlier to upshift into a higher gear, it may be caused by improper throttle cable or throttle position sensor. The owner should check whether the throttle position sensor is damaged, as well as the main oil pressure or throttle valve adjustment pressure, among other sensors. Automatic Transmission Fails to Upshift: During operation, if the transmission cannot upshift into 2nd gear or higher gears, or if it can shift into 2nd gear but not into 3rd gear or overdrive, the shift valve may be stuck due to a faulty gear selector switch. Vehicle Unable to Move: If the vehicle cannot move in any gear, or if it moves a short distance after starting but stops when slightly warmed up, it may be due to a damaged automatic transmission oil pan. The owner should check the linkage or cable between the gear selector lever and the manual valve rocker arm for looseness and address the issue promptly. Automatic Transmission Slipping: After starting the car, if the engine speed increases when the accelerator pedal is pressed but the vehicle responds slowly, or if the transmission shifts gears quickly while the speed increases slowly, it may indicate abnormal automatic transmission fluid levels. This could lead to slipping of the one-way overrunning clutch or oil leakage due to damaged piston seals in the clutch. Introduction to Car Maintenance: Definition of Car Maintenance: Car maintenance refers to the preventive work of regularly inspecting, cleaning, replenishing, lubricating, adjusting, or replacing certain parts of the vehicle, also known as vehicle servicing. Scope of Car Maintenance: Modern car maintenance mainly includes the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, etc. Purpose of Car Maintenance: The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate potential hazards to prevent faults, slow down deterioration, and extend the service life.

While driving, I suddenly noticed a sun-shaped icon with an exclamation mark on the dashboard. At first, I thought it was a lighting system malfunction, but later learned it was the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light, indicating insufficient tire pressure. The first time I encountered it, I panicked a bit but immediately pulled over to check the manual, confirming the right front tire had low pressure. I went to a gas station and used their free air pump to inflate it to 35 psi, after which the light turned off. Since then, I've made it a habit to check tire pressure monthly and carry a portable tire pressure gauge, especially in cold weather when temperature drops can cause pressure to decrease faster. Ignoring this warning light poses significant risks: unstable handling, increased fuel consumption, higher chances of skidding on wet roads, and even potential tire blowouts leading to accidents. Developing this routine has made driving much more reassuring—safety details should never be overlooked.

From my experience, this sun symbol with an exclamation mark is the standard tire pressure warning indicator. The light comes on when the system detects that one or more tires have pressure below the set value. Common causes include gas contraction due to temperature changes, slow leaks, or puncture damage. The solution is to immediately find a safe place to stop, manually measure the pressure of each tire with a tire pressure gauge, and inflate them to the recommended values on the door frame label. If the light remains on after inflation, there may be a sensor malfunction requiring professional inspection. Regular maintenance can improve fuel efficiency, extend tire life, and avoid emergencies. It is recommended to check every 5,000 kilometers or at the change of seasons for preventive measures.

The moment the tire pressure warning light illuminates, it should be taken seriously as it indicates potential safety hazards, such as extended braking distances and increased risk of losing control during turns. Whenever I encounter this, I always pull over to check and ensure the tire pressure is normal. Insufficient tire pressure increases the risk of a blowout, especially at high speeds, with potentially unimaginable consequences. Develop the habit of using simple tools for self-checks; once the light goes off after refilling, it's safe again. Don't let small oversights lead to major disasters—road safety is no trivial matter. Regular maintenance ensures peace of mind.


