Porsche 993: Warning Lights
Warning lights are the way your Porsche communicates with you, so it's important to know what these lights mean. Here is a guide to help you translate the message.
This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).
The 993 body-style Porsche 911 Carrera is the ultimate expression of Stuttgart's air-cooled engine technology. Since the inception of the 911 Carrera in 1963, Porsche stayed true to its roots by using oil and air to regulate engine cooling rather than coolant. This is a sign that Porsche has always had their own way of doing things, which means that some things may need some explaining, such as warning lights. Below is a reference guide that provides information about the most common warning lights reported by the forum members.
Warning Lights
Air Bag
The airbag warning light indicates that one of the two air bags in your Porsche is in trouble. Whether it has already stopped working or there is a sensor failure, it's recommended to take the vehicle to the dealership as soon as possible.
ABS
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) keeps you safe by preventing the tires from locking under heavy braking. It does this by pulsating the brake pedal for you and helps you keep control. This system is highly technical and complicated, so it is best to contact your dealer as soon as possible. It's recommended not to drive while this light is on.
Brake
The brake warning light indicates that there's a problem with the vehicle's braking system. While it's common for people to think this is related to the emergency or parking brake, in the 993 series there is a separate light for when the parking brake is engaged or has malfunctioned. Keep in mind that depending on the year of your 993 Porsche, there may be a separate warning light for brake pad wear.
Parking Brake
The "park brake" light indicates that the parking or emergency brake is engaged. This light reminds you not to try and drive with the brake on as it could cause damage to the system. If your brake isn't engaged and this light is on, it could mean that the sensor that detects the brake is faulty. Porsche vehicles of this generation are known for having a connector at the leather boot of the parking brake that could easily disconnect or bend.
Temperature Gauge
Most cars are equipped with a coolant level warning light, but because the Porsche is air-cooled it is equipped with a temperature gauge. If the gauge is reaching the higher red markings, then it's imperative you don't drive until the problem is diagnosed. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as adding coolant, so something may be obstructing the cooling of the engine, or it could be related to a low water or oil level.
Engine Oil
This warning light comes on when the engine oil drops below a safe level. Always make sure to check the oil dipstick as part of your weekly routine, specially if any extended driving stints are in the horizon. The 993 generation Porsche is known to go through motor oil quite fast. If indeed the oil is below what it should be, replenish with the appropriate oil; if not, then have it serviced immediately.
Brake Pad Wear
If this light is on, it means that your brake pads will need replacing soon. There is a sensor built into the brake system that measures how thin the brake pads have gotten over time. This usually happens before the pads start squealing and possibly damaging the brake rotor. While it is not necessary to service the car immediately, make sure it is done as soon as possible.
Check Engine
The check engine warning light could light up for multiple reasons, but most likely because it's time for schedule maintenance to be performed. It could also light up because of silly issues like the gas cap being left off or loose.
Related Discussion
- Warning Lights - Rennlist.com
