What does yellow circle on car mean?

Red and Yellow Dots on Car Tires – What Do They Mean?

Do you have red and yellow dots on the tires of your car? Do you know what they mean? In this short post we explain what all those dots and markings on your tires mean!

Imperfect Tires…

Your tires aren’t perfect, they have defects…

The fact of the matter is that no matter how much care is taken in making a new tire, it is impossible to make it perfectly radially symmetric, either in weight or in roundness. That is just a fact of life.

And that is okay! Why? Because your wheel rims aren’t perfect either.

For one thing, you have the valve stem sticking out (the port where you add air to the tire). When the wheel is spinning at high speed (for example, when you’re on the freeway), any imperfection is going to cause the wheel to wobble. This wobble can in turn cause your vehicle to shake and shimmy – not ideal.

This is why it is a good idea to have your wheels balanced. You know, where they add little let weights around the circumference of your wheel to balance it out?

BUT you don’t want to be hauling around a bunch of extra weight on your tires if you don’t have to. That is where the dots come into play.

So, here’s the deal, the various dots on your car tires tell the tire service technician how to best mount the tires onto your rims.

Red and Yellow Dots

The yellow dot indicates the point around the circumference where your tire weighs the least. This might be due to the consistency of the rubber, some extra raised writing on the side of the tire, or some imperfection. For whatever reason, that part of the tire is lighter than any other point around the tire outer rim of the rubber tire.

They test this at the tire factory and put a yellow dot on the tire at this point.

The red dot indicates the place on the tire that is the highest. By this I mean that the tire is not a perfect circle and if you could compare it to a perfect circle of the same diameter, you would find that one part of the tire sticks out a little bit, like a slight bulge outside of the perfect circle. This is the high point, and it is indicated by a red dot.

The yellow dot indicates how symmetric the tire is in terms of weight, while the red dot indicates how round the tire is.

I have a White Dot on My Rim?

Sometimes you may have a white dot or a dimple on the rim of your car, what does that mean? A white dot or dimple indicates the point on the rim that is the lowest.

So, if the rim is compared to a perfect circle of the same diameter, the lowest point on the rim is given a white dot or dimple.

How Are These Dots Used?

Okay, so we’ve established what all the dots mean, so what? How is this information used when mounting tires?

The Red Dot Is More Important!

The first priority is lining up the low and high spots. So, for this reason, if the rim has a white dot or dimple, then the red dot on the tire should be aligned with the white dot on the rim.

If you have alloy wheels, then the red dot is aligned with the valve stem.

I Don’t Have a Red Dot

If there is no red dot, then the yellow dot is used. They yellow dot is aligned with the valve stem regardless of whether you have steel or alloy rims.

What Are Car Dashboard Warning Lights, And What Do They Mean?

Every modern car’s dashboard has a lot of lights that are switched on or off, depending upon the circumstance. Whilst some may be basic lights, there are some lights that are very important to understand. These are known as Car Dashboard Warning Lights, as they warn us about the health and condition of our car.

In this blog, we will be looking at the various warnings we can get with the help of the lights on our car’s dashboard symbols.

Here are some basic car warning lights that follow the pattern of our traffic lights:

• Green: the system is working correctly or is currently in use
• Yellow: This light means that something is not working the way it should and that you should take care and get it checked as soon as you can
• Red: there is a serious, and potentially dangerous problem — stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so

Car Dashboard Warning Lights: Symbols, And Their Meanings

To get a better and deeper understanding of the other car dashboard symbols and meanings, look at the list below:

1. Brake Warning Light

Represented by an exclamation mark in a circle, with two brackets on either side, if you see that this symbol light on the dashboard is on, then it means that the brake fluid level is low. This warning signal could glow anytime: after you fully release the parking brake or come on when you’re driving. Unless you know where your brake fluid levels are accessible and can handle the situation, this is something best left to experts.

Other dashboard warning lights could also glow along with the brake warning light. If the ABS’ warning light is glowing along with the brake warning light, then it means that the braking system has malfunctioned, and your brakes may not work properly. In this case, the Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) warning light may also be glowing.

Can I drive with brake warning light on?

It is always advisable to stop driving, wherever you are, when you see that this dashboard warning light is on. Only continue to drive after the problem is fixed.

2. Engine Management Light

This is also known as the check engine or ECU warning light. Whenever this symbol is glowing on your car dashboard, it means that your engine may not be working properly. It could be due to anything, such as lack of power, which leads to stuttering as you press the accelerator. This light could indicate several faults, ranging from minor issues like a broken electrical sensor to a much larger mechanical issue, like a fault with your emission control system or catalytic converter, or it could even be as simple as electric wire tampering.

Can I drive with engine management light on?

While you wouldn’t have to immediately stop driving your car when and if you see this symbol glowing on a car dashboard, it does mean that you need to get it checked as soon as possible, to avoid considerable damage.

3. Airbag Warning Light

This car symbol is also known as the supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning light. If this car warning light is glowing red, then it means that at least one element of the airbag safety system is not working properly. It could be the airbag system itself or the front passenger occupant classification system (which detects the front passenger’s weight and position in order to safely deploy the airbag), or the seat belt pre-tensioner system, which tightens the belt in the event of a crash.

Can I drive with airbag warning light on?

The airbag is one of the most important components of a car, as it keeps the passengers of the car safe, should an unfortunate incident take place. If this car sign is on, the airbag could deploy in the event of a crash, or in some cases, even when there is no crash. Given that the airbag is important, it is always advisable to get this condition checked as soon as you can.

4. Power Steering Warning Light

This car symbol on the dashboard is also known as the EPS or EPAS warning light. If this car warning sign is on, then it could mean that there’s a problem with the power steering. For electrically powered systems, this problem is a simple fix, as simple as rebooting a computer. You could always just turn your car of and turn it back on again after 30 seconds once you find a safe spot for the car. If this light continues to stay on, then you should get your car checked as soon as you can. It could be as simple as the power steering oil is low, or could be more serious, but getting a professional looked at it is always the best idea.

Can I drive with power steering warning light on?

While you can drive with the light being on, it is always advisable to get it checked, as once the power steering system fails, you’ll notice that the car is harder to manoeuvre. As a result, getting the issue fixed as soon as you can is a great idea.

5. Diesel Particulate Filter Warning Light

This car dashboard light is also known as the DPF or exhaust particulate filter warning light. This occurs with engines that run on diesel. This light turns on when and if there is a problem with the exhaust particulate filter, which removes harmful soot from the exhaust gases to reduce emissions. It could indicate that the filter has become blocked with soot.

Can I drive with diesel particulate filter warning light on?

Continuing to drive while this problem is persistent, results in a lot of side effects. Not only would you be releasing black smoke every time you press the accelerator, but you would be doing considerable damage to your car for as long as you keep driving it without getting the problem fixed.

6. Engine Temperature Warning Light

This warning light is also called coolant temperature warning light. When you see that this light is on, on the car dashboard, it means that the engine is overheating. It could be because there is a leak in the system, or it could also be a sign of a larger problem, like a head gasket failure.

Can I drive with engine temperature warning light on?

If you see that this light is on, then you should stop your car right away, and wait until your engine cools off. Once you’ve made sure that the engine is cool enough, open the hood and check for any leaks. If there aren’t any and if the light has switched off, then you are good to go. However, if you don’t see any leaks and if the light is still on, then you should get your car checked immediately. It could be that there’s an issue with the coolant and water in the radiator, or anything else. All in all, it is always to get your car checked.

7. Coolant Levels Warning Light

When you see that this warning light on dashboard is glowing, then it usually means that the coolant levels of your car are running low. The heat from your engine is absorbed by the coolant fluid, which disperses it through the radiator, preventing your engine from overheating. The simplest fix for this problem is to get your coolant fluid refilled.

Can I drive with coolant levels warning light on?

Long journeys should be avoided at all costs when this light is on always make sure that you fill up your coolant fluid as soon as you can, in order to avoid any damage to your car.

8. Oil Warning Light

This symbol on the dashboard in your car is known as the low engine oil or low oil pressure light. When you see this car symbol glowing on a car dashboard, it either means that the oil temperature is too high, causing a decreased oil level, or the oil level or pressure is too low. If the oil is not lubricating the engine effectively it could lead to expensive or even irreparable engine damage, so it’s important to act immediately.

Can I drive with oil warning light on?

If you see this light while you’re driving, then you should stop your car immediately and check for any leaks under your car and under your hood. If everything looks fine but the light won’t go away, then it might mean that there is a possible leak somewhere you can’t spot. It is always suggestable to get your car to an expert in a situation like this.

9. Low Tyre Pressure Warning Light

This car symbol simply means that one of your tyres may be punctured. This dashboard light looks like a tyre with an exclamation point in it indicates that at least one of your tyres has low or underinflated tyre pressure. This could happen over time, or it could be because of a puncture.

Can I drive with low tyre pressure warning light on?

Try avoiding driving during situations like these, as that would only make it worse. If you have a spare tyre and know how to fix it, then that is the first thing to do. Otherwise, if you have a breakdown cover, then opt for that. If none of these are viable options for you, then you would have to bring a professional to wherever your car is, and get the issue fixed.

10. Battery Warning Light

This warning light on the car is also known as the battery charge light or battery charging system light. Whenever you see that this light is on, then it means that the battery is not charging. This could be due to a problem with your car’s electrical system, and it could have several reasons, such as a faulty alternator, faulty battery, bad electrical connection, battery age, bad battery or damaged cabling.

Can I drive with battery warning light on?

Whenever this happens, you could still drive until your battery is completely dead. But of course, it’s always the best idea to get the condition fixed as soon as you can.

11. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light

The ABS comes into play when you need to make a sudden stop, or when you’re driving through difficult driving conditions, like icy roads.

Can I drive with battery anti-lock brake system warning light?

If this car sign is on, then you should still have a good control over your braking system, but it is always important to keep some distance from other vehicles, just in case. However, if the brake warning light is also on simultaneously, then it could mean that the brake system is failing. In any case, it’s always better to get your car checked.

12. Electronic Stability Problem (ESP) Warning Light

This car light symbol is also known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC). If you see this warning light glowing, then means that there is a problem with traction control. If it is glowing, it means the ESP system is intervening. For example, if you’re driving on a slippery road and the light stays on, it means the ESP system is not working properly.

If the system has been deactivated, then the ESP light will glow with the word ‘OFF’, which could mean that you inadvertently turned it off. To check that, stop the engine and start it again. If the light remains on after restarting, then get it checked at a garage as the ESP system is an important safety feature.

13. Brake Pad Warning Light

This symbol is also known as the brake pad wear warning light. If this symbol lights up, then it means a sensor has detected your brake pads are too thin.

Can I drive with brake pad warning light on?

This light usually glows up before the brake pads are too thin, to give you time to get them fixed. Being negligent in such a situation is not advisable, and getting the pads fixed straight away is the best thing to do.

Conclusion

Car dashboard warning lights are important as they tell us about the health and condition of our vehicles. As such, it is incredibly important that we understand what every symbol and sign indicates. It is advisable to get a warranty for your car, as a warranty makes sure that any unforeseen repair will be taken care of, and in case of any unfortunate event where you end up stranded somewhere, a breakdown cover could help you out. Warranty Direct offers a highly comprehensive warranty plan, should you be looking for one which also includes breakdown cover.

What are the red and yellow dots on my tires?

Spot Check: What are the red and yellow dots on my new tires?

In an earlier post, we talked about how to identify if your tire was manufactured in the U.S. Looking at the DOT number on the sidewall of your tire will give you the information needed to locate its manufacturing facility. While looking at the sidewall, you may have noticed something else you didn’t recognize. If your tires are new or recently installed, you may have noticed a couple of red and yellow paint dots.

If you think you’re just seeing spots, don’t worry – that’s completely normal. The spots on the sidewall of your tires were specifically placed by the manufacturer to guide the tire installation process. In fact, these colored dots serve a specific purpose in helping the tire technician correctly balance the tire.

Creating a tire that is perfectly balanced and perfectly round is nearly impossible. Manufacturers make sure to label these inconsistencies with dots, so they can be corrected during the mounting process. Not all tires have these temporary markings and it’s also uncommon to see them on used tires because they can get scuffed off easily.

Most people will have their tires installed by a seasoned tire technician to ensure that mounting and balancing are done properly. Tire mounting and balancing requires special tire machines and balancing processes involving weights, lubricants, valve stems, and other things the average person doesn’t normally have on hand.

Because the process is so specific, it’s important to know whether your tires are being mounted correctly or not. That’s where the spots come in. Assuming you have them, there are two methods you can use to determine whether your tires were mounted correctly or not.

Weight Method

First, locate the valve stem on the side of your tire. If it’s lined up with one of the colored dots, the person who mounted your tire took heed of the label and installed it correctly. If the valve stem is located at the heaviest point on the tire, it will be lined up with a yellow dot on the sidewall. When a red dot is lined up with the valve stem you can assume that the valve is at the tire’s lightest point.
After a tire is mounted, its balance is checked on an automated machine that will locate any lighter weight areas. The machine will notify the tire technician to install tire weights at various points around the rims perimeter to balance the tire.

Uniformity Method

Your steering, traction, braking, and load support capabilities are all dependent on the radial force variation in your tire. Maximum radial force and runout (the difference between the highest and lowest weight points) is marked by a red dot. Radial force, as well as runout, should be minimized to ensure proper installation and guarantee a smooth ride.

The red dot may be aligned with a ‘dimple’ on the exterior of the rim. This indicates a wheel’s low point and should be adhered to in the mounting process. By pairing a dot with either the lightest or heaviest weight area, you will achieve the optimum balance point during installation. If both colored dots are present, the red dot will take priority.

Check the following with your tire technician the next time you have new tires installed:

• Proper lubricant is used in the mounting process. If lubricant is not used, the bead areas will not seat and seal properly.
• Any dirt between hub and wheel has been cleaned. If the beads of the hub are not properly cleaned or buffed, air will leak from gaps that will inevitably form.
• Manufacturers marks have been properly aligned. Red and yellow dots, if present, should be in line with either the weight or uniformity mounting method.
• Proper wheel weights have been installed. If the weights placed on your wheel are not properly installed, they have a greater chance of falling off at high speeds. You will know if this has happened if you suddenly experience excessive vibration while driving.

While your tire technician may be surprised to receive those questions, they will appreciate your interest in the methods they use and will inform you of their typical mounting process.

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