luz del motor
/luθ del motoɾ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "check engine light" is translated into Spanish as luz del motor.
This phrase refers to the warning light on a vehicle's dashboard that indicates an engine problem. When you want to say that the light has turned on or is illuminated, you should use the verb encender (to turn on/light up), for example, se encendió la luz del motor.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase luz del motor is composed of luz (light), del (of the) and motor (engine).
Which one should you use?
luz del motor is a common shorthand, while luz de revisión del motor is a more descriptive way to express the "check" aspect of the warning.
How do you pronounce it?
/luθ del motoɾ/
Did you know?
- While luz del motor is standard, a mechanic in a formal shop might use the term testigo, which means 'witness', to describe any dashboard warning light.
- In a mechanical context, instead of saying the light 'turned on' with se encendió, a mechanic might use the verb saltar, such as saltó la luz, which translates literally to 'the light jumped'.
- While luz del motor is technically correct, a driver in many Latin American countries might simply say se prendió el check or el check engine, using the English term as a loanword.
Examples in context
- Se encendió la luz del motor en el coche.The check engine light came on in the car.
- La luz del motor parpadea en el tablero.The check engine light is flashing on the dashboard.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are looking at the dashboard of Daniel's car.
- Daniel¿Viste la luz del motor, María?Did you see the check engine light, María?
- MaríaSí, Daniel, parece que hay un problema.Yes, Daniel, it looks like there is a problem.
- DanielDebo llevar el coche al mecánico pronto.I must take the car to the mechanic soon.
- MaríaEs mejor no ignorar la luz del motor.It is better not to ignore the check engine light.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
