Holiday Lights You’ll Enjoy—And the Ones You Should Avoid!

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes twinkling lights, cheerful decorations, and the magic of Christmas displays. Driving through neighborhoods adorned with festive lights is a beloved holiday tradition, a way to get into the season's spirit. But not all lights are worth celebrating—especially when they appear on your car’s dashboard.

This holiday season, let’s explore the lights you want to see in Phoenix and those you don’t. And don’t worry—if the wrong lights pop up, 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair is here to help get your car back to holiday cheer.

The Lights You’ll Love: Holiday Displays

It’s a chilly December evening, and you’re cruising through Phoenix with a cup of hot cocoa in the cupholder. Neighborhoods are glowing with strands of red, green, and golden lights. Trees sparkle, rooftops glimmer, and inflatable Santas wave from front yards. It’s the kind of magic that makes the season so special.

Must-See Light Displays in Phoenix:

• Take a drive through the Phoenix Zoo’s ZooLights, where animals made of thousands of lights come to life.
• Don’t miss the iconic Glendale Glitters, a tradition that lights up the night sky with over a million sparkling bulbs.
• Head to North Phoenix neighborhoods to see dazzling homes that could give Santa’s workshop a run for its money.

These lights are all about joy, celebration, and memories—the kind each childhood is made of and the center of conversations this season. Now, let’s talk about the lights that are anything but festive.

The Lights You Won’t Love: Warning Lights on Your Dashboard

You’re on your way to see the family’s favorite Christmas movie, but as you back out of the driveway, your dashboard lights up like a mini Christmas tree. Suddenly, the festive mood dims. While holiday lights are a treat, dashboard warning lights signal trouble—and ignoring them can lead to serious car issues. Here are a few “unwelcomed visitors” that might appear this season:

1. The Check Engine Light 

This infamous light can ruin your plans faster than a last-minute gift exchange. The check engine light is a catch-all warning that something’s wrong under the hood. It could be something minor, like a loose gas cap, or something more serious, like an engine misfire.

Holiday Tip: If this light appears, stop by 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair. We’ll run a diagnostic scan to pinpoint the issue, so you don’t have to spend your holiday season worrying.

2. The Battery Light

You’re headed to the ZooLights when the battery warning light flickers on. This light means your car’s charging system isn’t working properly, and your battery might not have enough juice to get you through the night. Cold weather in Phoenix, while not extreme, can still take a toll on your battery’s performance.

Holiday Tip: Have your battery and alternator checked before any long holiday drives. At 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair, we’ll ensure your car stays powered up for all your holiday adventures.

3. The Tire Pressure Light 

Cooler December temperatures can cause your tire pressure to drop, triggering the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light. Driving with low tire pressure isn’t just unsafe—it can also reduce fuel efficiency, which no one wants during the busy (and expensive) holiday season.

Holiday Tip: Stop by our shop, and we’ll top off your tires and check for punctures or leaks. Keeping your tires properly inflated is one way to keep your sleigh running smoothly.

4. The Oil Pressure Light 

Nothing stops holiday plans like an oil pressure warning light. If this light comes on, it means your engine isn’t getting enough oil, which could cause severe damage if ignored.

Holiday Tip: Don’t wait if this light appears—pull over and check your oil levels immediately. Better yet, schedule an oil change at 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair before the holidays to prevent this light from appearing.

5. The Brake Light

If your brake warning light turns on, it’s a sign that your brake fluid might be low or that your braking system is faulty. This is especially concerning if you’re driving to see lights on hilly roads or through busy Phoenix streets.

Holiday Tip: Safety is non-negotiable during the holiday season. Let our technicians inspect your brakes to ensure they’re ready for whatever holiday travels lie ahead.

Let 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair Keep the Wrong Lights Away

At 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair, located conveniently at 1539 W Hatcher Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85021, we’re here to keep the holiday spirit alive by making sure your car is free of unwelcome dashboard lights. Whether it’s a quick tune-up, a thorough diagnostic, or preventive maintenance, our team has you covered.

This holiday season, enjoy the twinkling lights of Phoenix without worrying about your car. Schedule an appointment with us, and let us ensure your vehicle is road trip ready. After all, the only lights you should see this Christmas are the beautiful displays.

Happy Holidays from 3A Automotive & Diesel Repair!

May your travels be safe, your dashboard stay light-free, and your holiday season be filled with joy, laughter, and plenty of time spent with loved ones. From all of us at 3A Automotive & Diesel, Happy Holidays!