What is the primary purpose of warning lights in a vehicle?

The primary purpose of warning lights in a vehicle is to alert drivers to potential issues. These lights serve as indicators for various system statuses within the vehicle, such as engine problems, low oil pressure, battery issues, or warning of an open door. By alerting the driver, warning lights help ensure that they can take appropriate action to address any issues before they lead to more serious problems or safety concerns.

This proactive alerting is crucial for vehicle maintenance and safe driving, as it allows the driver to respond promptly, potentially avoiding breakdowns or accidents. While providing visual feedback, measuring fuel efficiency, and signaling other vehicles are important functions in their own right, these tasks do not represent the core function of warning lights. Their main role is effectively to protect both the vehicle and the occupants by ensuring that the driver is informed of any malfunctions.