What is an icing warning lamp? What does the icing (frost warning lamp) do? Is it safe for me to drive when the icing warning lamp is on?
Winter driving is dangerous, as we all know. You can lose your vision from fog and rain, but worse, ice can make roads slippery enough that you might not be able drive at normal speeds. Automakers have added an icing warning lamp to the dashboard in order to help drivers be safer and more aware of their surroundings. The temperature sensor, located around the front bumper, controls this warning light. The computer switches on the warning lamp on an instrument panel when the temperature of the air passing through the sensor is at a predetermined level.
Why does the Frost Warning Light (Frost) come on?
Depending on the temperature outside, this light will turn on in two stages. The light first turns on when the outside temperature reaches around 3°C (37°F). Although the water usually starts to freeze around 0°C (32°F), this warning light comes on 2-3 degrees in advance to warn the driver that icing may begin to form. The light will turn yellow or amber at this point. The light will change to red as the temperature drops below freezing.
You should be aware that even though the warning light will go off when the temperature outside rises, there is still the possibility of ice on some parts of the road.
Is it safe to drive with the Icing Warning light on?
Your journey can be continued as long you pay attention at the lights and behave carefully. This warning should not go unheeded as ice can cause serious injury to your safety. You should also ensure that the tire you choose is appropriate for your surroundings. While all-season tires are good for winter driving, it is worth getting a snow tire if you live near heavy snowfall.
If the frost warning lights are on, roads may become slippery because of icing. Excessive speed or excessive use of your foot brake could cause the vehicle’s to spin. Reduce your speed, increase the distance between the vehicle in front of you, and reduce your speed. This will allow you to slow down your vehicle slowly and avoid sudden braking. Avoid using the brake pedal when entering bends.
You can mount the frost warning lamp sensor on the lower front grille, front bumper or inside the side mirror, or on the driver’s side door. Temperature readings can be inaccurate due to the location of the sensor, engine heat, road surface heat, direct sun exposure, and its exact location. In some cases, dirt, mud, oil, etc. Sometimes, the sensor can become dirty from debris and not function properly. Usually, cleaning the sensor will resolve the problem.
