We’ve all experienced that moment while driving: a sudden beep, a glance at the dashboard, and a new symbol illuminates. Immediately, questions arise – what does this car sign mean? Is something wrong with my vehicle? Deciphering these car signs on your dashboard can range from straightforward to puzzling. However, understanding these warning lights is crucial for every driver to ensure vehicle safety and prevent potential breakdowns.
Modern car dashboards are equipped with a multitude of symbols, designed to communicate various aspects of your vehicle’s condition and operation. These car signs are your car’s way of telling you what’s happening, from engaged features to critical issues requiring immediate attention. Being able to interpret these visual cues is essential for responsible car ownership and proactive maintenance.
Decoding the Colors of Car Dashboard Signs
When it comes to car signs on your dashboard, color is a vital indicator of urgency and the type of information being conveyed. Dashboard lights aren’t just about alerting you to problems; they also inform you about active systems and features. Understanding the color-coding system can help you quickly assess the situation and react appropriately.
Green or Blue Car Signs: These colors are generally informational. Green or blue car signs on the dashboard indicate that a particular system is active and functioning correctly. This could be anything from your headlights being on to cruise control being engaged. These lights are usually nothing to worry about and simply provide operational status updates.
Orange or Yellow Car Signs: These are warning lights that signal a potential issue or a need for maintenance soon. Orange or yellow car signs on the dashboard are advisory in nature. They suggest that your vehicle may require servicing or attention in the near future. These warnings are less critical than red lights but should still be addressed promptly to prevent more significant problems. Think of them as early warning signals for issues like low tire pressure or the need for an oil change.
Red Car Signs: Red lights are serious warning signals. Red car signs on the dashboard demand immediate attention. They indicate a critical problem that could potentially cause damage to your vehicle or compromise your safety if ignored. A red warning light often means you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and investigate the issue. These could range from engine overheating to brake system malfunctions. Ignoring red car signs can lead to breakdowns or costly repairs.
Remember, while this guide covers common car signs, every vehicle is unique. Slight variations in symbols might exist across different makes and models. When in doubt, your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the definitive resource for understanding the specific car signs on your dashboard. Additionally, many car dashboards briefly illuminate several lights during start-up as part of a system check. This is normal, and as long as these lights turn off within a few seconds, it indicates that the system check is complete and all is well.
18 Common Car Signs on Your Dashboard Explained
Let’s delve into 18 of the most common car signs you might encounter on your dashboard. Understanding each of these symbols will empower you to respond effectively and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
Oil Pressure Warning Light
What It Means: Represented by an old-fashioned oil can symbol, this car sign indicates a problem within your car’s oil pressure system. It could mean your vehicle is low on engine oil, or that the oil pump is failing to circulate oil adequately to lubricate engine components. Some dashboards may display the word “OIL” instead of this symbol. Low oil pressure is a serious issue that can lead to significant engine damage.
What To Do: This is a critical warning. Poor engine lubrication can cause severe engine damage. As soon as it is safe, pull over to the side of the road, turn off your engine, and check your engine oil level. First, visually inspect around the engine for any obvious oil leaks. Then, use your car’s oil dipstick to check the oil level. If the oil level is low, adding oil might resolve the issue and turn off the light. If the oil level is sufficient but the engine sounds noisy, there could be a problem with the oil pump itself. If the oil level is fine and the engine sounds normal, the oil pressure sensor might be faulty. Regardless of the specific cause, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the underlying issue.
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light (TPMS)
What It Means: Often referred to as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) symbol, this car sign, resembling a horseshoe with an exclamation point, signals an issue with your tire pressure or the TPMS itself.
A solid TPMS light indicates that one or more of your tires have either low tire pressure or excessively high pressure. Maintaining correct tire pressure is important for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
If the TPMS symbol flashes for approximately 60 to 90 seconds when you start your car and then remains illuminated (even if your tire pressures are correct), it suggests a malfunction within the TPMS sensors themselves. While a sensor malfunction won’t directly impact tire performance, it prevents the system from alerting you to actual low tire pressure situations in the future.
What To Do: Driving with improper tire pressure is unsafe and can damage your tires. Stop as soon as possible in a safe location and check your tire pressures. Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire and compare it to the recommended tire pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual. Inflate tires that are low or deflate tires that are overinflated to reach the correct pressure. If the light persists after adjusting tire pressures, or if the light is flashing, it’s advisable to have your TPMS system checked by a tire service professional.
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light
Engine Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: This car sign, depicted as a thermometer submerged in liquid, indicates that your engine is overheating. Engine overheating is a serious issue often related to the engine coolant (antifreeze) system, but it can stem from various causes. Overheating can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
What To Do: If you see this symbol, your engine is getting dangerously hot. First, try turning off your car’s air conditioning system and turning on the heater to its maximum setting. This can help draw heat away from the engine and into the passenger compartment. If the light doesn’t turn off after a few minutes, or if steam is coming from under the hood, 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 anything further. Crucially, do not open the hood while the engine is hot. Opening the hood prematurely can release scalding steam or coolant, causing severe burns. While waiting for the engine to cool, consider calling roadside assistance for coolant top-up or to arrange towing to a repair shop.
4. Traction Control Light
What It Means: This car sign, often showing a car with wavy lines beneath it, indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is actively engaged. The traction control system utilizes the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect if any of your wheels are spinning faster than others, which signifies a loss of traction. When wheel slip is detected, the system automatically applies brakes to the slipping wheel(s) and/or reduces engine power to help regain traction. This system is particularly helpful when driving in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice.
What To Do: When you see this light flashing, it means the traction control system is working as intended. Continue driving cautiously, being mindful of potentially slippery road conditions. The system is actively helping to maintain vehicle stability. There’s usually no immediate action required other than adapting your driving to the conditions.
5. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light
ABS Warning Light
What It Means: The ABS warning light, often displaying the letters “ABS” inside a circle, signals a malfunction within your vehicle’s Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). ABS is a critical safety feature that prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, especially on slippery surfaces. When you brake firmly, ABS modulates brake pressure to each wheel, helping you maintain steering control and shorten stopping distances. If the ABS warning light is illuminated, it indicates that the ABS system is not functioning correctly.
What To Do: Since ABS is a vital safety system, it’s important to have the issue diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. While your regular brakes will still function, the anti-lock function will be disabled. This means in emergency braking situations, especially on slippery roads, wheel lock-up is possible, potentially leading to loss of steering control and increased stopping distances. Schedule a service appointment to have your ABS system inspected and repaired promptly.
6. Traction Control Malfunction Light
What It Means: This car sign, which is sometimes the same symbol as the traction control activation light but stays illuminated constantly (not flashing), indicates a malfunction within the traction control system. It suggests that there might be a broken or damaged sensor, a problem with the control module, or another issue affecting the system’s operation. In some vehicles, the ABS and traction control systems share components, so this light might also illuminate if there’s an issue with the ABS system.
What To Do: While a traction control malfunction may not affect normal driving in ideal conditions, it means the system might not function correctly when you need it most, such as in slippery conditions. It’s recommended 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 safe driving, particularly in inclement weather.
7. Engine Warning Light (Check Engine Light)
Check Engine Light
What It Means: The check engine light, often depicted as an engine outline, is one of the most commonly seen and sometimes misunderstood car signs. It can illuminate for a wide array of reasons, ranging from minor to serious. A frequent, less serious cause is a loose, missing, or cracked gas cap, which can cause fuel vapor leaks. However, it can also signal more significant problems, such as issues with the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or even low oil pressure or engine overheating. Some dashboards may display the words “CHECK ENGINE” instead of the symbol.
What To Do: The appropriate action depends on the behavior of the check engine light. If the check engine light is solid and your car seems to be driving normally without unusual noises, smells, or performance issues, you can often continue driving for a short distance, ideally to your home or a trusted mechanic. However, it’s crucial to get the issue diagnosed as soon as possible. If the check engine light is flashing, this is a more urgent warning. A flashing check engine light typically indicates a more severe problem that could potentially cause damage to your engine if ignored. In most cases, a flashing check engine light warrants stopping driving as soon as it is safe to do so and having your vehicle towed to a repair shop for diagnosis. Regardless of whether the light is solid or flashing, it’s important to get it checked and the underlying problem resolved promptly to prevent potential further damage or more costly repairs.
8. Battery Alert Light
What It Means: This car sign, resembling a battery shape, indicates a problem within your vehicle’s charging system, not necessarily the battery itself. The charging system, primarily consisting of the alternator, is responsible for recharging the battery while the engine is running and providing power to the car’s electrical systems. Possible causes for this light illuminating include a loose or corroded battery cable, a failing alternator, or other electrical system faults. You might notice symptoms like dimming headlights, a fading clock display, or in severe cases, difficulty starting the car.
What To Do: A battery alert light indicates that your car is likely running solely on battery power, and once the battery is depleted, the vehicle may stall or not restart. It’s advisable to have your vehicle’s charging system inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. They can diagnose whether it’s a battery issue, an alternator problem, or another electrical fault. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent being stranded with a dead battery.
9. Low Fuel Indicator Light
Low Fuel Indicator Light
What It Means: This car sign, typically shaped like a fuel pump, is a straightforward indicator that your vehicle is running low on fuel. When this light illuminates, it means you are approaching the empty mark on your fuel gauge and have a limited amount of fuel remaining in the tank.
What To Do: When the low fuel light comes on, it’s time to refuel as soon as conveniently possible. While most cars have a reserve fuel capacity after the light illuminates, it’s not advisable to rely on this reserve regularly or push your luck, especially if you are unfamiliar with your vehicle’s fuel consumption rate or if you anticipate encountering traffic or unexpected delays. Find the nearest gas station and fill up your tank to avoid running out of fuel completely.
Bonus Tip: Most vehicles have a small triangle or arrow symbol next to the fuel pump icon on the fuel gauge. This arrow indicates which side of your car the fuel filler door is located on, adding a bit of convenience when you pull up to the gas pump.
10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light
What It Means: This car sign, often depicting a foot pressing a brake pedal, is a reminder related to starting your car or shifting gears in an automatic transmission vehicle. It indicates that you are attempting to shift out of “Park” or start the engine without first pressing the brake pedal. Modern automatic transmissions have a shift lock mechanism for safety, preventing unintentional gear changes, especially out of “Park.”
What To Do: If you see this car sign illuminate, simply ensure your foot is firmly pressing down on the brake pedal. Once you apply the brakes, you should be able to shift gears out of “Park” or start the engine. This is a standard safety feature, and the light serves as a helpful reminder.
11. Seat Belt Reminder Light
Seat Belt Reminder Light
What It Means: This car sign, usually depicting a person wearing a seatbelt, is a simple yet crucial reminder to buckle up. It is a safety warning to ensure that the driver and front-seat passengers are wearing their seatbelts. This light is typically accompanied by an audible chime or buzzing sound that repeats periodically as a further reminder.
What To Do: The solution is straightforward: fasten your seatbelt! Seat belts are a primary safety feature in vehicles and significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries in the event of a collision. According to safety organizations, seat belts reduce the risk of serious crash-related injuries by approximately 50%. Make it a habit to always buckle up before starting to drive, and ensure your passengers do the same.
12. Airbag Warning Light
What It Means: The airbag warning light, often displaying the word “AIRBAG” or a symbol of a person with an inflated airbag, indicates a problem with your vehicle’s airbag system. This could involve any part of the system, including the airbags themselves, the sensors, the wiring, or the control module. Airbags are a critical component of your car’s passive safety system, designed to deploy in certain types of collisions to cushion occupants and reduce the risk of injury.
What To Do: If the airbag warning light is illuminated, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately. A malfunctioning airbag system may not deploy correctly in an accident, compromising your safety. Do not ignore this warning light. Schedule a service appointment to have the airbag system diagnosed and repaired to ensure it functions as intended in case of a collision.
13. Security Indicator Light
Security Indicator Light
What It Means: The security indicator light, often depicted as a padlock or a car key symbol, relates to your vehicle’s anti-theft or security system. Its behavior can indicate different states of the system.
If the light is blinking steadily, it typically means the security system is armed and active. This is normal when the car is locked and the system is engaged.
If the light is solid and the car won’t start, it suggests that the vehicle’s immobilizer system has been activated, possibly due to a perceived security threat or a system malfunction. The immobilizer prevents the engine from starting as an anti-theft measure.
If the light is solid and the car is running normally, it could indicate a malfunction within the security system itself.
What To Do: If the vehicle is immobilized and the security light is solid, consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to deactivate or reset the security system. This often involves using the key fob in a specific way or entering a security code. If it’s a system malfunction (solid light while driving normally), it’s advisable to have your vehicle’s security system checked by a qualified technician. A malfunctioning security system may not provide adequate theft protection.
14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light
What It Means: This car sign, showing a headlight symbol with a wavy line through it, indicates that your vehicle’s fog lights are currently turned on. Fog lights are designed to provide enhanced visibility in foggy or very low visibility conditions. They are typically mounted low and project a wide, flat beam of light to illuminate the area close to the ground beneath the fog.
What To Do: Fog lights should only be used when visibility is significantly reduced due to fog, heavy rain, snow, or dust. Using fog lights in clear weather or normal nighttime driving can actually reduce visibility for yourself and create glare for other drivers, potentially hindering their vision. If you notice this light on in normal conditions, turn off your fog lights using the light control stalk or switch.
15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light
Washer Fluid Indicator Light
What It Means: This car sign, often depicting a windshield with water being sprayed on it, is a straightforward indicator that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is low and needs refilling. Windshield washer fluid is essential for keeping your windshield clean and clear of dirt, grime, and debris, especially in inclement weather conditions.
What To Do: When you see this light, it’s a reminder to replenish your windshield washer fluid as soon as it is convenient. You can purchase washer fluid at most gas stations, auto parts stores, and general retailers. Refilling the reservoir is usually a simple process, typically located under the hood with a cap marked with the same windshield/water spray symbol. Keeping your washer fluid topped up ensures you can maintain good visibility while driving.
16. Brake Warning Light
What It Means: The brake warning light, often displaying the word “BRAKE” in red or a symbol of an exclamation point inside a circle, can indicate a couple of different scenarios related to your vehicle’s braking system.
First, it commonly illuminates when the parking brake (emergency brake) is engaged. This is a reminder to release the parking brake before driving.
Second, if the light remains on even after the parking brake is fully released, it can signal a more serious problem within the braking system itself. This could be due to low brake fluid level, worn brake pads, or other brake system malfunctions.
What To Do: If the brake warning light is on, first ensure that your parking brake is fully released. If the light remains on after releasing the parking brake, it indicates a potential issue with your braking system that needs attention. In this case, it’s advisable to stop driving and have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic. Driving with a brake system warning light illuminated could be unsafe, as it might indicate reduced braking performance.
17. Lane Departure Warning Light
Lane Departure Warning Light
What It Means: The lane departure warning light, often showing a car drifting out of lane lines, is associated with modern vehicles equipped with lane departure warning systems. This system is designed to help prevent unintentional lane drifting, which can be a cause of accidents, especially due to driver fatigue or distraction. When the system detects that your vehicle is drifting out of its lane without the turn signal being activated, it typically provides a visual warning (this dashboard light) and often an audible warning (beeping or vibration).
What To Do: If the lane departure warning light illuminates and you hear a warning sound, it means the system has detected you drifting out of your lane unintentionally. Take corrective steering action to guide your vehicle back into the center of your lane. The system is designed to be a helpful aid, but drivers should always remain attentive and actively steer the vehicle. The light may also activate when you intentionally change lanes without using your turn signal, as the system is detecting a lane departure event.
18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: This car sign, often resembling a thermometer inside a gear symbol, indicates that your vehicle’s transmission is overheating. Transmission overheating is a serious issue that can lead to transmission damage or failure. Potential causes include low transmission fluid level, degraded transmission fluid, heavy towing, or internal transmission problems.
What To Do: If the transmission temperature warning light comes on, it’s important to act promptly. Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and stop your vehicle. Turn off the engine and allow the transmission to cool down. Waiting for at least 30 minutes to an hour is recommended before attempting to drive again. Check your owner’s manual for any specific recommendations for your vehicle. If the light continues to come on after cooling down, or if you suspect a transmission problem, it’s best to have your vehicle towed to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Driving with an overheating transmission can cause significant and costly damage.
Car Dashboard Signs: Your Vehicle’s Language
Understanding car signs on your dashboard is more than just knowing what each symbol means; it’s about understanding your car’s language. These lights are your vehicle’s way of communicating its needs, warnings, and operational status. Paying attention to these car signs and responding appropriately is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health, ensuring your safety, and preventing potentially costly repairs down the road. When in doubt about a car sign, always consult your owner’s manual for detailed information and recommended actions specific to your vehicle model. And remember, for any warning lights indicating potential mechanical issues, it’s always best to seek professional advice from a qualified mechanic.
