The driver must receive information about the operation of the vehicle's systems. A fuel gauge tells the operator how much fuel is left. Electrical gauges indicate whether the vehicle's alternator is generating enough electricity. It is important that the battery does not discharge. A discharged battery is not able to start the vehicle.
Speed indicators measure how fast a vehicle is traveling.
An odometer measures distance the vehicle has traveled. It alerts the driver to have the vehicle serviced. It also gives information about distance traveled during a trip. Temperature gauges register the temperature of the engine coolant. They alert the driver of overheating problems so proper repairs or service can be performed before the engine is damaged.