One can use the dashboard, the A-pillar, or the console to mount gauges, often referred to as the “racing gauges.” Not only do they allow for personalizing the car’s interior, but they also serve a practical purpose by providing a constant view of the car’s vital signs.. Auto gauges come in various types, each with its shape, color, design and make. Before the era of digitalization, vehicles had mechanical gauges. However, modern vehicles have both analog gauges and digital gauges. Most of the important gauges are present in the car’s dashboard. These measuring tools are crucial for a car to function properly, and without them, cars wouldn’t function properly.
Let us take a look at the different kinds of auto gauges.
2. Speedometer
4. Fuel Gauge
5. Oil Gauge
6. Tachometer
1 What are Gauges in a Car?
Gauges in a car are instruments that display information about the car’s various systems. They are typically located on the dashboard behind the steering wheel. The most common gauges in a car are the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, voltmeter, and odometer.
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2 Speedometer
A speedometer is one of the most common types of dashboard gauge. Usually, in older cars, a speedometer cable is used to connect the speedometer to the speedometer gear inside the transmission. However, with advancement in technology, newer vehicles no longer rely on such cables. Instead, they use an electronic sensor to measure the speed of each wheel and send the signal to an electronic speedometer.
The size of the tires can change the efficiency of the speedometer. For instance, If the tires are larger than the ones originally equipped with the car, the speedometer may display a slower speed than the actual speed. Modern vehicles with electronic speedometers often come with the ability to calibrate the gauge to accommodate different tire sizes. This calibration is typically done using special tools like diagnostic scanners.
3 Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the engine temperature in degrees. When you start the car for the first time, the indicator will display “cold.” During this phase, turning on the heater will blow cold air until the gauge moves away from “cold”. Once the gauge moves to a higher temperature, you can turn on the heater to receive warm air.
Most temperature gauges don’t show the temperature in degrees. Instead, they use labels like “cold,” “hot,” and “normal,” as seen in the dashboard panel at the top of this page. It’s essential to keep an eye on the temperature gauge to ensure that the engine does not overheat. If the gauge indicates significantly higher temperature, especially when it is not very hot outside, it is advisable to have the cooling system checked promptly.
Water Temperature Gauge
A water temperature gauge indicates whether the engine is operating at appropriate temperature or is too hot or too cold. Some meters are mechanical, and some are digital. Mechanized gauges work the same way as the thermometers. When the temperature rises, the gauge’s dial moves to show the temperature of the coolant in the engine. On the other hand, digital gauges use a sensor to read the engine’s temperature and this information is displayed using the indicator inside the car.
Oil Temperature Gauge
An oil temperature gauge is a device in your car’s engine that monitors the oil temperature. The indicator allows the user to keep a close eye on the engine oil’s temperature, ensuring that the oil does not break down too quickly, causing more wear and damage to the engine and its parts. The gauge remains active as long as the car is running. The ideal temperature for your car’s engine oil is a few degrees higher than the car’s coolant temperature. If the oil in the car’s engine gets too hot, it could cause significant problems with your vehicle, including engine breaking down. Regularly changing the engine oil is essential to prevent it from reaching excessive temperatures.
Pro Tip: Adding an engine coolant can also help in regulating the oil and engine temperature. However, we advise you to consult your auto dealer before making this decision to ensure compatibility and avoid potential complications.
4 Fuel Gauge
This auto gauge is mainly used to monitor the amount of gas in the car’s fuel tank. This gauge is located on the dash of every vehicle. It has two parts – the indicator which specifies the fuel level and the sender unit. When the tank is completely full, the indicator reads “F,” and when it is empty, it reads “E.”
Fuel Pressure Gauge
A fuel pressure gauge connects to your fuel system and indicates whether the fuel pressure is too high or too low. If the fuel pressure reading isn’t proper, it could indicate several problems in the fuel system. Potential issues may include a faulty fuel pump, a malfunctioning pressure regulator, or a clogged fuel filter. On the other hand, if the pressure reading is too low, it could be because of a clogged filter, a broken regulator, or a blockage in the fuel line. A weak fuel pump might also be the reason, but it’s advisable to investigate and eliminate other possibilities before considering the replacement of the fuel pump, which can be a costly repair.
5 Oil Gauge
Oil Pressure Gauge
This gauge measures engine oil pressure in pounds per square inch. The oil pressure in an engine is just as important as a person’s blood pressure. If you run an engine without oil pressure for less than a minute, it can lead to severe damage. Fortunately, most cars are equipped with a warning light that illuminates when the oil pressure is too low. If this light turns on while driving, it is crucial to act promptly and pull over to a safe location. Turn off the engine and proceed to check the engine’s oil level. Add oil if needed.
Disclaimer: Most owner manuals will have such critical details. Referring to them can be very helpful.
Oil Level Gauge
Most dashboard indicators resemble oil gauges. The dial has an indicator needle, a label (usually “OIL”), and numbers (1-80 or 1-100). In some vehicles, high and low pressure are indicated by “L” and “H.” Check your owner’s manual for a starting point.
Regularly check your oil level gauge, if it constantly shows a reading below 20 when the engine is idle, it could be a worrying sign. Low readings could be due to a leak or worn-out engine parts. Fixing or replacing the part could prevent costly engine damage.
While driving, the pressure gauge needle should settle in the middle after approximately 20 minutes. If it rises to the top, the oil pressure may be excessive. It could happen due to the pressure release valve or clogged oil delivery lines. When you see extreme pressure, turn off your engine to prevent oil filter rupture.
6 Tachometer
The tachometer is another car dashboard gauge that shows the engine speed in the “number of revolutions per minute” (RPM) scale. This information is helpful if your car has a manual transmission and you want to change gears at the best RPM for the best gas mileage or speed. Most of the time, the tachometer only shows numbers like 1, 2, 3, etc. You will also see a sign that says RPM x 1000. You need to multiply the reading by 1000 to get the actual RPM. For instance, if the needle is at 2, it means the engine is running at 2000 RPM.
Caution: You shouldn’t rev your engine so fast that the tach needle goes into the red zone as this can cause severe damage to the engine. The engine computer keeps some engines from entering into the red zone.
7 Tire Pressure Gauge
A tire pressure gauge measures the pressure of inflated tires on cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. Eyeballing tire pressure might lead to inaccurate readings. Standard or digital gauges provide accurate readings.
Drivers can use the gauge to determine whether their tires are underinflated, overinflated, or perfect. Vehicle, model, purpose, and conditions define the ideal PSI.
Caution: Drivers and riders must use their vehicle’s recommended PSI. Please check the owner’s manual to know the PSI of your vehicle.
8 Charging System Gauge
Your vehicle’s electrical power comes from the charging system. If you have trouble with the charging system, your battery will die soon, and your car won’t start. The charging system gauge or warning lamp lets you know if this system has a problem before you get stuck. The two kinds of meters used to keep an eye on charging systems are:
Voltmeter
A voltmeter is a tool that measures the battery’s system voltage. Most modern cars use voltmeters because they are easier to work with and can tell how efficient a charging system is. When a technician looks at a charging system, the first tool they use is usually a voltmeter.
Modern cars have 12-volt systems. The engine-off voltage of a fully charged battery is 12.5 volts. When the engine runs, the charging mechanism takes over, and the voltmeter reading is nearly 14 to 14.5 volts. The voltage may drop if the wipers, lights, heater, and rear defogger are turned on while the engine is idle. The battery supplies current if the voltage dips below 12.5. If this continues, the battery may run out, and they may be unable to start the car after shutting it off. Similarly, the voltage regulator fails if the voltage exceeds 15 volts. Overcharging can damage the vehicle’s electrical system.
Ammeter
An ammeter measures the battery current. An ammeter indicates negative when the battery is depleted and positive when the battery is being charged. The ammeter l shows positive if the battery is fully charged and the electrical demand is low. After starting, the ammeter will read a high positive amperage to replenish the battery. If it reads more than 10 or 20 amps, even with the lights, wipers, and other electrical equipment off, you may have a weak battery and it might need attention..
Pro Tip: Constant usage of the vehicle will help maintain the battery. An idle vehicle can drain the battery quickly.
Disclaimer: We advise you to wear personal protective equipment before dealing with any electrical equipment.
We hope this article has provided you with all the information you need to understand your vehicle’s different kinds of gauges. While it may seem complicated, we assure you they aren’t. We advise you to check them regularly and maintain them in excellent condition to have a smooth car.
