Decoding Car Signs on Dash: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Your Dashboard Symbols

Ever been driving and suddenly noticed a strange symbol light up on your car’s dashboard? That moment of surprise and a little bit of panic is something most drivers experience. Car dashboards are packed with symbols, some are simple indicators, and others are urgent warnings. Understanding what these Car Signs On Dash mean is crucial for every driver to ensure vehicle safety and prevent potential breakdowns.

While some car signs on dash are easily recognizable, others can be quite confusing. It’s essential to know the meaning of these warning lights so you can react appropriately, whether it’s a minor issue you can address yourself or a serious problem requiring immediate attention and professional help.

Understanding the Color Code of Car Dashboard Symbols

Before diving into specific car signs on dash, it’s important to understand the color-coding system used for dashboard lights. Colors are not just for aesthetics; they provide an immediate indication of the severity and type of the issue or function:

Green or Blue: These colors are generally good news. They indicate that a vehicle system is active and working correctly. Think of them as indicators for features like headlights being on, cruise control engaged, or turn signals in use.
Yellow or Amber: Yellow or amber car signs on dash are warnings. They signal that something needs attention or that a system is not working optimally. These are often less urgent than red warnings, but they still require you to address the issue, often suggesting a need for maintenance or repair soon.
Red: Red car signs on dash are serious warnings. They indicate a critical problem that requires immediate action. A red light often means you should pull over safely as soon as possible to prevent further damage or ensure safety. These could be related to serious mechanical issues or safety concerns.

Remember, while this guide covers many common car signs on dash, every car is unique. The symbols in your vehicle might slightly differ. Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for the most accurate and detailed information about your specific make and model. Also, keep in mind that many of these lights will briefly illuminate when you start your car as part of a system check. If they turn off after a few seconds, it’s usually a sign that everything is functioning normally.

18 Essential Car Signs On Dash and Their Meanings

Here’s a breakdown of 18 common car signs on dash you might encounter, categorized for easy understanding:

1. Oil Pressure Warning Light

Oil Pressure Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often depicted as an old-fashioned oil can, signals a problem with your engine’s oil pressure system. This could mean your car is low on engine oil, or there might be a malfunction in the oil pump preventing proper oil circulation and lubrication of engine components. In some vehicles, instead of this symbol, you might see the word “OIL” illuminate.

Action: Low oil pressure can lead to serious engine damage due to inadequate lubrication. If this red car sign on dash appears, pull over to a safe location immediately and turn off your engine. Check for any visible oil leaks around the engine. Then, use the dipstick to check your engine oil level. If the oil level is low, adding oil might resolve the issue temporarily. However, if the oil level is adequate, but the light remains on or the engine sounds noisy, it could indicate a faulty oil pump or sensor. In any case, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and fix the underlying problem.

Read more about the importance of oil changes for your vehicle’s health.

2. Tire Pressure Warning Light (TPMS)

Meaning: Also known as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light, this car sign on dash, shaped like a horseshoe with an exclamation point, indicates an issue with your tire pressure or the TPMS itself.

A solid TPMS light means that one or more of your tires are significantly under-inflated or over-inflated. A flashing TPMS light, especially if it flashes for 60 to 90 seconds upon starting the vehicle and then remains illuminated, indicates a malfunction within the TPMS system itself, possibly with the tire pressure sensors, even if your tire pressure is currently correct.

Action: Driving with improper tire pressure is unsafe and can lead to tire damage, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. If you see this car sign on dash, stop as soon as safely possible and check your tire pressures using a tire pressure gauge. Inflate or deflate your tires to the recommended pressure, which you can usually find on a sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.

If the light persists after adjusting tire pressure, or if it was flashing initially, there may be an issue with your TPMS sensors. While a malfunctioning TPMS sensor won’t directly affect tire performance, it means the system won’t be able to warn you of future pressure drops. It’s recommended to have your TPMS system checked by a professional to diagnose and repair any sensor or system issues.

Learn more about understanding and managing your TPMS light.

3. Engine Temperature Warning Light

Engine Temperature Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, resembling a thermometer submerged in liquid, warns you that your engine is overheating. Engine overheating is often related to the engine coolant (antifreeze) system, but it can arise from various causes such as coolant leaks, a malfunctioning thermostat, or radiator issues.

Action: An overheating engine can cause significant damage. If this red car sign on dash lights up, your first action should be to try turning off your car’s air conditioning and turning on the heater to draw heat away from the engine and into the passenger compartment. If the light remains on after a couple of minutes, pull over to a safe location immediately and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting to do anything else. Important: Do not open the hood while the engine is hot, as this can lead to burns from escaping steam or hot coolant.

While waiting for the engine to cool, plan your next steps. Contact roadside assistance for help, either to have coolant added if you suspect a leak or to arrange for your vehicle to be towed to a repair shop for a thorough inspection and repair.

Understand the dangers of engine overheating and how to prevent it.

4. Traction Control Indicator

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often depicting a car with squiggly lines underneath, indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is currently engaged. The traction control system works with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect if a wheel is losing traction and spinning faster than others, typically in slippery conditions like rain or snow. When activated, it automatically applies brake force to the slipping wheel(s) and may reduce engine power to help regain traction and maintain control.

Action: If this yellow car sign on dash is flashing, it means the traction control system is actively working to help you maintain control in slippery conditions. In most cases, you can continue driving, but it’s a signal to be extra cautious and aware of potentially slippery road conditions. Reduce your speed, avoid sudden acceleration or braking, and drive smoothly.

5. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light

ABS Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, usually displaying the letters “ABS”, indicates a malfunction within your vehicle’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS is a critical safety feature that prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, especially on slippery surfaces, allowing you to maintain steering control. If this light is illuminated, it means the ABS system is not functioning correctly.

Action: Since the ABS is a vital safety system, it’s crucial to address this warning promptly. While your regular brakes will likely still function, the ABS may not engage in emergency braking situations. It’s recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the ABS issue. Driving without a functioning ABS system, especially in conditions where hard braking might be necessary, increases the risk of wheel lock-up and loss of control.

Learn more about how the Anti-lock Braking System enhances your vehicle’s safety.

6. Traction Control Malfunction Indicator

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often similar to the traction control indicator but may be constantly illuminated rather than flashing, indicates a malfunction in your vehicle’s traction control system. It suggests there might be a problem with a sensor, module, or another component of the system, preventing it from operating correctly. In some vehicles, the same control module manages both the ABS and traction control systems, so this light can sometimes appear in conjunction with ABS issues.

Action: While a traction control malfunction may not impact normal, everyday driving in ideal conditions, it means your vehicle might not have the benefit of traction control in slippery or challenging situations. It’s advisable to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic soon to diagnose the cause of the malfunction and ensure your traction control system is functioning properly for optimal safety, especially when driving in inclement weather or on uneven surfaces.

7. Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light

Meaning: The check engine light, often depicted as an engine outline, is one of the most ambiguous car signs on dash. It can illuminate for a wide range of reasons, from minor issues like a loose gas cap preventing proper sealing of the fuel system, to more serious problems like engine misfires, catalytic converter issues, or low oil pressure. In some vehicles, you might see the words “CHECK ENGINE” instead of the symbol.

Action: The appropriate action depends on the behavior of the check engine light. If the light is solid yellow/amber and your vehicle is driving normally without any unusual noises, smells, or performance issues, you can usually continue driving for a short distance, preferably to your home or a trusted repair shop. However, if the check engine light is red or flashing, this indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. A flashing check engine light often signals engine misfires that could damage the catalytic converter if ignored. In this case, you should stop driving as soon as safely possible and have your vehicle towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Regardless of whether the light is solid or flashing, it’s important to get the issue diagnosed promptly to prevent potential further damage and ensure your vehicle is running efficiently and safely.

Understand more about the check engine light and when it’s safe to drive with it on.

8. Battery Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, shaped like a battery, indicates a problem within your vehicle’s charging system. This could be due to various issues, such as a loose or corroded battery cable, a failing alternator that is not properly charging the battery, or other electrical faults within the system. You might notice other symptoms along with this light, such as dimming headlights, a fading clock display, or in more severe cases, difficulty starting the car or complete electrical failure.

Action: A battery warning light suggests that your car’s electrical system is not being properly powered or charged, which can lead to your car stalling or not starting at all. It’s advisable to have your vehicle’s battery and charging system inspected by a professional technician as soon as possible. They can diagnose the root cause, whether it’s a battery issue, alternator problem, or wiring fault. Addressing this promptly can prevent you from being stranded with a dead battery.

Learn about troubleshooting electrical system issues that might prevent your car from starting.

9. Low Fuel Level Indicator

Low Fuel Indicator Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, resembling a fuel pump, is straightforward and familiar to most drivers. It simply means your vehicle is running low on fuel and you need to refuel soon.

Action: When this light illuminates, it’s time to visit a gas station and fill up your fuel tank. While most cars have a reserve fuel capacity when this light comes on, it’s not advisable to rely on it for long distances. Driving with very low fuel can potentially damage your fuel pump as it might start drawing sediment from the bottom of the tank. It’s always best to refuel promptly when you see this car sign on dash to avoid running out of gas unexpectedly.

Bonus Tip: Most modern vehicles have a small arrow next to the fuel pump symbol on the fuel gauge. This arrow indicates which side of your car the fuel door is located on, adding a bit of convenience at the gas station.

10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often showing a foot pressing a brake pedal or the word “SHIFT LOCK”, usually appears when you attempt to shift out of “Park” or start your engine without first pressing firmly on the brake pedal. Modern automatic transmissions have a safety feature that prevents shifting out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is engaged, and some vehicles require the brake to be pressed to start the ignition as well.

Action: If you see this car sign on dash, simply ensure your foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal and then attempt to shift gears or start the ignition again. This is a normal safety feature, not a malfunction, and is designed to prevent accidental movement of the vehicle.

11. Seat Belt Reminder Light

Seat Belt Reminder Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, typically depicting a person wearing a seat belt, is a simple reminder for you and your passengers to buckle up. It’s often accompanied by an audible chime or buzzing sound to further emphasize the reminder.

Action: The action is straightforward: fasten your seat belt! Seat belts are a critical safety feature, proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries in car accidents. Make sure both the driver and all passengers are properly buckled up whenever the vehicle is in motion.

Learn more about the importance of seat belt use from safety organizations like the CDC.

12. Airbag System Warning

Meaning: The airbag warning light, often displaying the word “AIRBAG” or a symbol of a person with an inflated airbag, indicates a problem within your vehicle’s airbag system. This could be a malfunction in one or more airbags, the sensors, the control module, or the seat belt pretensioners that work in conjunction with the airbags.

Action: A malfunctioning airbag system is a serious safety concern. Airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a collision to protect occupants. If this red car sign on dash is illuminated, it means your airbags may not deploy correctly in an accident, compromising your safety. It’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected and the airbag system diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician immediately to ensure your safety in case of a crash.

13. Security System Indicator

Security Indicator Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often depicting a key or a padlock symbol, relates to your vehicle’s anti-theft or security system. Its behavior can indicate different states of the system:

Blinking Steadily: When the security system is armed and active, this light will typically blink to indicate it’s monitoring for unauthorized activity. This is normal operation.
Solid and Car Won’t Start: If this light is solid and your car refuses to start, it means the vehicle’s immobilizer system has been activated, possibly due to a perceived security threat or a system malfunction. This system prevents the engine from starting to deter theft.
Solid and Car Running Normally: If the light is solid while the car is running and operating normally, it could indicate a malfunction within the security system itself.

Action: If your vehicle is immobilized and the security light is solid, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to deactivate or reset the security system. This might involve using your key fob in a particular way or entering a security code. If the light indicates a malfunction while driving normally, it’s recommended to have your security system checked by a technician to ensure it’s functioning correctly and will protect your vehicle from theft as intended.

14. Fog Light Indicator

Meaning: This car sign on dash, showing a headlight symbol with a wavy line passing through it, indicates that your vehicle’s fog lights are turned on. Fog lights are designed to provide improved visibility in foggy or heavy rain conditions by directing a low, wide beam of light towards the road surface.

Action: Fog lights should only be used when visibility is actually reduced due to fog, heavy rain, or snow. Using fog lights in clear conditions can create glare for other drivers and may be illegal in some areas. If you see this green car sign on dash and the conditions are clear, turn off your fog lights using the headlight control stalk or switch.

15. Windshield Washer Fluid Light

Washer Fluid Indicator Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often depicting a windshield with water spraying on it, is a straightforward indicator that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is low and needs to be refilled.

Action: Replenish your windshield washer fluid as soon as it’s convenient. Having sufficient washer fluid is essential for maintaining clear visibility through your windshield, especially in dirty or inclement weather conditions. Regularly check and refill your washer fluid reservoir to ensure you always have it available when needed.

16. Brake System Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash can appear in a couple of forms: either the word “BRAKE” illuminated in red or an exclamation point inside a circle. It can indicate two primary issues related to your braking system:

Parking Brake Engaged: Most commonly, this light illuminates when the parking brake (emergency brake) is engaged.
Brake System Problem: If the parking brake is not engaged, but this red car sign on dash remains lit, it indicates a potential problem within your braking system itself. This could be due to low brake fluid level, worn brake pads, or other issues within the hydraulic brake system.

Action: First, if you see this light, check if your parking brake is engaged and release it fully. If the light turns off, then the issue was simply the parking brake. However, if the light remains on after releasing the parking brake, or if it comes on while driving, it signals a potential serious brake system issue. In this case, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected immediately. Brake problems can severely compromise your safety. If you suspect a brake system malfunction, it’s best to have your car towed to a qualified repair shop for diagnosis and repair rather than driving it.

17. Lane Departure Warning Indicator

Lane Departure Warning Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often depicting lane markings and a car drifting out of a lane, is related to the Lane Departure Warning system found in many modern vehicles. It indicates that the system is active and has detected your vehicle drifting out of its lane markings on the road. The system is designed to alert the driver to unintentional lane drifting, often due to distraction or drowsiness.

Action: If this car sign on dash illuminates, it’s a warning that you are drifting out of your lane. Correct your steering to bring your vehicle back within the lane markings. The system is meant to be a safety aid, so pay attention to the alert and adjust your driving as needed. Keep in mind that the system may also activate when you intentionally change lanes without using your turn signal.

18. Transmission Temperature Light

Meaning: This car sign on dash, often resembling a gear symbol with a thermometer inside, indicates that your vehicle’s transmission is overheating. Transmission overheating can be caused by various factors, including low transmission fluid, old or degraded transmission fluid, heavy towing, strenuous driving conditions, or internal transmission problems.

Action: An overheating transmission can lead to serious and expensive damage. If this red car sign on dash appears, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and turn off your vehicle. Allow the transmission to cool down completely before attempting to drive again. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to see if there’s a way to check the transmission fluid level (some vehicles have a dipstick for this). If the light persists after cooling down or if you suspect a serious issue, it’s best to have your vehicle towed to a qualified repair shop for a thorough transmission inspection and repair. Continuing to drive with an overheating transmission can cause significant internal damage.

Learn more about transmission maintenance and repair to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Experiencing Car Trouble?

Understanding car signs on dash is the first step in vehicle maintenance and safety. If you are experiencing any of these warning lights or other car troubles, it’s important to seek professional help. Whether it’s a routine service like an oil change or a more complex repair, bring your vehicle to qualified technicians for expert diagnosis and repair. Schedule a service appointment today to ensure your car is safe and running at its best. Find a service location near you.