When we turn the key in the ignition, we’ve undoubtedly noticed that several warning lights with different shapes and colors illuminate on the dashboard. However, if we haven’t encountered any issues with the vehicle’s operation, most of us are unfamiliar with the meaning of these warning lights.
This article provides important information about dashboard warning lights and guidelines on what actions to take when these warning lights illuminate and remain lit on the dashboard. First and foremost, it’s important to note that it’s normal for the warning lights to come on when we turn the key in the ignition.
However, after a short period during which the ECU tests the proper functionality of each system, these warning lights should turn off one by one. Another important aspect to mention is that the severity of the detected fault is indicated by the color of the warning light. If the ECU detects any fault, the warning light remains lit on the dashboard and necessitates a thorough inspection to determine the cause of the light’s illumination.
Different Colors for Maserati Ghibli Dashboard Warning Lights
All Maserati Ghibli dashboard warning lights can be either green or blue, yellow, or red. The green or blue colors are usually associated with indicator lights. The yellow color warns us of a malfunction, but it’s the red color that demands urgent action. When a red illuminated warning light comes on, it’s advisable to pull over and turn off the engine.
The meaning of each dashboard warning light can be found in the Maserati Ghibli’s technical manual. Additionally, you can refer to this article to find the information you’re interested in. Dashboard warning lights are standardized, regardless of the car’s make and model. However, their positions on the dashboard may vary.
The Most Important Warning Lights That Can Illuminate on the Dashboard
Check Engine Light - the Check Engine Light is one of the warning lights that frequently comes on, mainly because it signifies a wide range of potential issues. The Check Engine Light can indicate a problem with the engine, as well as other types of malfunctions. Since it is a very important warning light, specialists recommend a thorough and accurate diagnosis to address the problem as quickly as possible.
Oil Pressure Warning Light - when this warning light comes on in the dashboard, it can be either yellow or red. A red warning light indicates that the oil pressure in the engine is low, which means there is a high risk of damaging the engine. In this situation, it is advisable to pull over to the side of the road and turn off the engine. Then, you should use a tow truck to take your car to a specialized service center. A yellow oil warning light indicates that the oil level is lower than it should be.
Brake System Warning Light - it can be illuminated in either red or yellow. A yellow brake system warning light may indicate a malfunction in the sensors. When it’s red, this warning light indicates significant issues within the braking system. Engaging the handbrake in an Maserati Ghibli will trigger the illumination of this warning light.
Battery Warning Light - as expected, the illumination of this warning light signifies a problem with the battery or alternator. When this warning light, typically in red, comes on, it indicates that you have approximately two to three hours to reach your destination. To ensure you make it to your destination, specialists recommend deactivating any non-essential electrical consumers.
Coolant Temperature Warning Light - this warning light remains illuminated when the coolant level drops. A low coolant level prevents proper engine cooling, which can lead to significant malfunctions.
Fuel Warning Light - this warning light illuminates on the dashboard when the fuel level in the tank drops below a certain threshold. Each car has a specific fuel level set for triggering this warning light, and the exact number of kilometers you can drive after it comes on is usually outlined in the vehicle’s technical manual. Typically, it falls within the range of 80 to 100 kilometers.
If this warning light comes on, specialists recommend refueling promptly to avoid potential damage to the injectors, fuel pump, or filters.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light - as the name suggests, this warning light indicates incorrect tire pressure when it comes on. This warning light assesses both tire pressure and temperature and remains illuminated if these values fall outside the manufacturer’s specified limits.
ASR Warning Light - Traction Control System (TCS) - When we deactivate the ASR and ESR of the vehicle, this warning light remains on. However, if we haven’t intentionally deactivated them and the warning light stays on, it means that a malfunction has occurred in this system. This malfunction can be located at the level of a wheel speed sensor. The illumination of this warning light indicates that the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are no longer operational.
These were the most important dashboard warning lights for the Maserati Ghibli model. We will briefly describe below the meaning of each warning light that can illuminate on the Maserati Ghibli’s dashboard.
Here are the meanings of the various warning lights that can illuminate on the Maserati Ghibli’s dashboard:
Fog Lights Issues
Power Steering System Issues - If there are problems at this level, you’ll find it much harder to turn the steering wheel and may hear a specific rubbing noise.
Fog Light Problems
Incorrect Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Brake Pad Issues - When this warning light comes on, it’s advisable to replace the brake pads.
Cruise Control Activated
Turn Signal Indicator
Issues with Rain and Light Sensors
Low Outside Temperature, 3 degrees Celsius or below
New Vehicle Information Available
Diesel Ignition System Issues
Fog Warning
Issues with the Car’s Ignition or Immobilizer
Key Not Inside the Car or Nearby
Key Fob Battery Low - If not addressed, you might not be able to access the car.
If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic braking sensor or ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), a warning light may appear on the dashboard if you get too close to the vehicle in front.
Clutch Pedal Press Required
Brake Pedal Press Required
Immobilizer System Issue
High Beam Activated
Incorrect Tire Pressure - TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) warning light
Low Beam Activated
Exterior Light Issues
Brake Light Problems
Diesel Particulate Filter Problems - Applies only to Diesel vehicles
Trailer System Issue
Air Suspension System Issue
Lane Assist System Activated - This warning light comes on if you stray from your lane.
Issues with the Catalytic Converter
Seat Belt Not Fastened
Handbrake Engaged
Battery or Alternator Problems
Parking Assistance Active
Vehicle Requires Service
Adaptive Headlights
Headlight Alignment
Rear Spoiler - This warning light is available only in cars equipped with an electrically controlled spoiler.
Convertible Top System Issues
Airbag System Issues
Handbrake Engaged
Water in Fuel Filter
Airbag Deactivated
Mechanical or Electrical Error
High Beam Activated
Air Filter Needs Replacement
ECO Mode
Hill Descent Control Active
High Engine Temperature - In this case, pull over and turn off the engine.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Issues - Avoid sudden braking.
Fuel Filter
Door Open
Hood Open
Low Fuel Level
Automatic Transmission Issues
Speed Limiter Activated
Suspension System Issue
Low Oil Pressure
Windshield Defrost
Trunk Open
Stability Control Active
Rain Sensor
Engine Issues - Check NOx (nitrogen oxides) levels.
Rear Window Defrost
Automatic Wipers
Please note that these are general descriptions, and specific issues may require further diagnosis by a qualified mechanic.
