Dashboard warning lights are an important feature in vehicles that alert drivers to potential issues with the vehicle. Warning lights turning on can indicate problems with engine performance, emissions systems, brakes, airbags, tire pressure and more.
This guide will provide an overview of the common dashboard warning lights found in Honda Fit models. We’ll explain what each warning light means and the possible actions that should be taken if a light turns on. Properly understanding Honda Fit dashboard lights can help identify issues early and prevent further damage.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light is one of the most common warning lights in Honda Fit vehicles. A steady check engine light typically indicates a minor issue like a loose gas cap or faulty oxygen sensor. However, a flashing check engine light signals a more severe problem that could cause serious damage if left unattended.
Some potential causes for the check engine light include:
- Loose or faulty gas cap – Tightening or replacing the gas cap often solves this issue.
- Faulty oxygen sensor – The oxygen sensor monitors the air/fuel ratio and may need to be replaced.
- Bad catalytic converter – The catalytic converter transforms harmful exhaust into less toxic gases. A damaged converter will trigger the check engine light.
- Misfires – Issues with spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors can cause engine misfires and illuminate the check engine light.
If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates a severe misfire likely caused by a bad ignition coil or damaged spark plug. A flashing light means you should stop driving immediately and have the vehicle serviced to prevent serious damage.
When the check engine light appears, the best course of action is to scan for diagnostic trouble codes to pinpoint the root cause. Reputable auto shops have diagnostic scanners to read Honda Fit engine codes. With the code in hand, the specific component triggering the light can be fixed or replaced as needed. Ignoring the check engine light risks more serious problems down the road.[1]
ABS Light
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light in a Honda Fit indicates that there is an issue with the ABS system. According to FitFreak forums, when this warning light is on, it means the ABS pump is not working properly and anti-lock braking functionality may be disabled.
There are a few potential causes for the ABS light to illuminate in a Honda Fit:
- Faulty ABS sensor
- Issues with the ABS module
- Problems with wheel speed sensors
- Low brake fluid level
The severity of the ABS light can vary. If it comes on briefly and then turns off, it could just be a minor issue. However, if the light stays lit, it indicates a more serious problem that needs immediate attention. Driving without a functioning ABS system reduces braking ability and vehicle control, especially on wet or slippery roads.
Recommended actions when the ABS light appears include:
- Slowing down and driving cautiously to a repair shop
- Checking brake fluid levels under the hood
- Having the ABS system professionally inspected and serviced
Ignoring the ABS warning light risks unsafe vehicle braking and handling. While the standard brakes will still function, the advanced ABS safety feature may be disabled until the underlying issue is diagnosed and repaired.
Airbag Light
The airbag light appearing on your Honda Fit’s dashboard indicates a potential issue with one or more of the airbag systems in the car. The airbag system is an important safety feature, so this light should not be ignored.
The most likely causes for the airbag light are:
- Faulty airbag control module
- Loose or damaged wiring to airbag components
- Faulty clockspring or steering wheel connections
- Bad crash sensors
While the airbag light does not indicate any immediate critical danger, airbags play a crucial role in protecting passengers in the event of an accident. Driving without properly functioning airbags greatly increases the risk of serious injury in a crash. So this issue should be diagnosed and repaired promptly by a professional.
If the airbag light appears, the recommended actions are:
- Drive safely to a repair shop immediately to have the system inspected.
- Avoid harsh braking or sharp turns, as airbags may not deploy.
- Do not ignore the warning light – have it fixed right away.
- Be prepared for the repair costs, which average $800-$1200 for airbag system issues.
In summary, the airbag light indicates a real problem that jeopardizes safety. Schedule repair immediately to restore full airbag functionality.
Brake Light
The brake light on the Honda Fit dashboard indicates issues with the brake system, such as low brake fluid levels or a malfunction with the anti-lock braking system.
If the brake light comes on while driving, it means the brake fluid level is low and needs to be refilled. Low brake fluid can cause a loss of braking which is extremely dangerous. You should pull over safely and call for assistance. Driving with low brake fluid can lead to complete brake failure (Source).
The brake light may also indicate problems with the anti-lock braking system. The anti-lock brakes prevent the wheels from locking up under hard braking. If the ABS light comes on, the anti-lock brake system is disabled. The brakes will still function normally, but without anti-lock capabilities. You should have the ABS system inspected and repaired to restore full braking functionality (Source).
Overall, the brake light is very serious and means there is a danger of brake failure. You should stop driving immediately and contact a mechanic. Driving with brake issues can lead to collisions or inability to stop the vehicle (Source).
Battery Light
The battery light on the Honda Fit’s dashboard indicates a potential issue with the car’s charging system. Specifically, it means the battery is not being charged properly by the alternator.
There are a few possible causes for the battery light coming on:
- Faulty alternator – This is the most common cause of the battery light. If the alternator stops working, the battery will not get charged while driving and will eventually drain.
- Loose or broken alternator belt – The alternator runs on a belt connected to the engine. If this belt becomes loose or broken, the alternator will stop charging the battery.
- Bad battery – While less common, a failing car battery can also trigger the battery warning light due to improper voltage.
- Short circuit – Electrical issues like a short circuit can cause false battery warning lights.
The severity depends on the underlying cause. A dead battery can leave you stranded, while a loose belt may be an easy fix. The key is not to ignore the light and to diagnose the issue promptly.
If the battery light comes on, here are some recommended actions:
- Turn off any unnecessary electrical accessories like the radio. This reduces load on the electrical system.
- Have the battery and alternator tested by a professional mechanic. They can determine if either component needs to be repaired or replaced.
- Check and tighten alternator belt if loose. Replace the belt if it is badly cracked or worn.
- Recharge or replace the battery if it is not holding proper voltage.
- Inspect wiring harness and connections for any shorts.
Ignoring the battery warning light risks complete battery failure and getting stranded. Schedule an inspection as soon as possible whenever the light illuminates. Replacing the alternator or battery promptly can prevent more extensive damage down the road.
Oil Pressure Light
The oil pressure light illuminates when the oil pressure in your Honda Fit’s engine drops below the normal range (Source: https://techinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/om/CH0303/CH0303O00271A.pdf). It indicates that your engine may not be properly lubricated, which can lead to serious damage if the engine is left running.
Possible causes of low oil pressure include low oil level, worn bearings, a faulty oil pump, or sludge buildup. Make sure to check your oil level first if the light comes on. Top it off if needed. The oil pressure light typically does not indicate a problem until oil levels are dangerously low (Source: https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/general-fit-talk/69200-oil-life-light-what-does-indicate.html).
This warning light is very serious. You should safely pull over and turn off the engine immediately if it illuminates while driving. Continuing to operate your Fit with low oil pressure can quickly lead to extensive engine damage. Do not restart the engine until the oil level and pressure have been verified (Source: https://www.hfitinfo.com/hofi-187.html). This light indicates a potentially dangerous situation for your vehicle.
Temperature Light
The temperature light in a Honda Fit is a blue thermometer icon that illuminates when the engine is still cold. This is normal behavior and the light indicates that the engine has not yet reached its optimal operating temperature. The temperature light should turn off once the engine has fully warmed up, usually after several minutes of driving.
If the temperature light stays on or comes on while driving, it could signify an issue like:
- Low coolant level – Check coolant and top up if needed
- Faulty temperature sensor – May need replacement
- Thermostat failure – Should be replaced
- Cooling system leak – Have system inspected and repaired
A temperature light that remains on or comes on during driving is considered moderately severe. Continuing to operate the vehicle with this warning light on can lead to overheating and engine damage. Have the car inspected right away if this occurs. Do not drive for extended periods until the cause is diagnosed and resolved.
Recommended actions if the temperature light stays on/comes on while driving:
- Pull over and turn off the engine once it’s safe to do so
- Check coolant level under hood and top up if needed
- If light remains on, have vehicle towed to mechanic for diagnosis
- Do NOT continue driving until the issue is identified and fixed
Tire Pressure Light
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light indicates that the air pressure in one or more of your tires is low (Roush Honda, 2022). This warning light is typically yellow and looks like a cutaway tire with an exclamation point in most Honda Fit models (FitFreak Forums, 2016). When illuminated, it means the tire pressure should be checked and adjusted to the recommended PSI.
A TPMS light can come on for a few different reasons. The most likely is that one or more tires are underinflated. Tires naturally lose pressure over time, so it’s not unusual for this light to come on if the pressures haven’t been checked in a while. A TPMS light may also indicate a leak, puncture, valve issue, or problem with the tire pressure monitoring system itself.
While not an emergency situation, it’s important to address a TPMS light promptly. Driving on underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven tire wear, and decreased handling and braking. In extreme cases, severely underinflated tires can overheat and fail. The TPMS system helps prevent this by alerting drivers so they can add air or otherwise address low pressures before it becomes a serious issue.
When the TPMS light illuminates, the first recommended step is to visually inspect all tires for any obvious damage and then check and adjust the pressures on all four tires as needed. Tire pressures should be set to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found in the owner’s manual or on a placard on the door jamb. After inflating the tires, the TPMS light should go off after a few minutes of driving. If the light persists, there may be an issue with one of the tire pressure sensors that will require service by a tire shop or dealer.
Conclusion
In summary, dashboard warning lights are an important part of your Honda Fit’s instrument panel communication system. They alert you to any issues or malfunctions occurring in your vehicle. It’s critical to understand what each warning light signifies and take appropriate action if one comes on. Consulting your owner’s manual is always the best place to start for proper reference on your Honda Fit’s warning lights.
Some final recommendations when it comes to your Honda Fit’s dashboard warning lights:
- Do not ignore a warning light – determine the cause and remedy it as soon as possible.
- Warning lights signify an urgent issue – pull over and stop driving if one comes on.
- Have your Honda Fit serviced immediately if the check engine light comes on.
- Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure of a warning light’s meaning.
- Address warning light issues promptly to avoid further vehicle damage.
Following these guidelines for dashboard warning lights will help keep your Honda Fit running safely and optimally.
