That sudden beep and illuminated symbol on your car’s dashboard can be unsettling. While some Car Warning Symbols are straightforward, others might leave you scratching your head. Understanding these signals is crucial for every driver, ensuring you know when it’s safe to continue driving and when to pull over and seek assistance.
This guide will break down the most common car warning symbols you might encounter, helping you decipher their meanings and understand the necessary actions to take. Remember, your dashboard is your car’s way of communicating with you – learning its language can save you from potential breakdowns and costly repairs.
Understanding the Color Code of Car Dashboard Symbols
Before diving into specific symbols, it’s important to understand the color-coding system used for car dashboard lights. Colors are not arbitrary; they provide an immediate indication of the severity and urgency of the situation:
- Green or Blue: These colors are generally informational. They indicate that a particular system or feature is active and functioning normally. Examples include headlights being on or cruise control being engaged.
- Yellow or Amber: These are warning lights, but typically less urgent than red. Yellow or amber symbols suggest that something needs attention, and your vehicle might require servicing or repair soon. It could be something like low tire pressure or a needed oil change.
- Red: Red lights signal serious problems that require immediate action. These could indicate safety concerns, like a seatbelt reminder, or critical mechanical issues, such as engine overheating or low oil pressure. Ignoring a red warning light can lead to significant damage or dangerous driving conditions.
It’s also important to note that many car warning symbols will briefly illuminate when you start your vehicle as part of a system check. This is normal, and as long as they turn off within a few seconds, it indicates that the systems are functioning correctly.
18 Essential Car Warning Symbols Explained
Here’s a breakdown of 18 common car warning symbols you might see on your dashboard, categorized for easy understanding:
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light 2. Tire Pressure Warning Light 3. Engine Temperature Warning Light 4. Traction Control Light 5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light 6. Traction Control Malfunction Light 7. Check Engine Light 8. Battery Warning Light 9. Low Fuel Light 10. Automatic Shift Lock Indicator 11. Seat Belt Reminder Light 12. Airbag Warning Light 13. Security System Warning Light 14. Fog Light Indicator 15. Washer Fluid Low Indicator 16. Brake System Warning Light 17. Lane Departure Warning Light 18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
Oil Pressure Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, resembling an old-fashioned oil can, indicates a problem within your car’s oil pressure system. It could mean your engine oil level is critically low, or there’s an issue with the oil pump preventing proper circulation of oil throughout the engine. Insufficient lubrication can lead to significant engine damage. Some vehicles might display the word “OIL” instead of this symbol.
What To Do: Engine lubrication is vital. As soon as you see this light, pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Check for any visible oil leaks around the engine area. Then, use the dipstick to check your engine oil level. If the oil level is low, adding oil might resolve the issue and turn off the light. However, if the oil level is sufficient, but the engine sounds noisy, it could signal an oil pump problem. If the oil level is fine and the engine runs smoothly, the oil pressure sensor might be faulty. In any scenario, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic promptly to diagnose and fix the underlying issue preventing adequate oil pressure.
Read: Understanding Engine Oil and Why Changes are Important
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light
What It Means: Often referred to as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) symbol, this horseshoe-shaped icon warns of a problem with your tire pressure or the TPMS itself.
A solid TPMS light indicates that one or more of your tires are under-inflated or over-inflated. A flashing TPMS light, especially if it flashes for 60-90 seconds upon starting the car and then remains illuminated, suggests a malfunction within the TPMS sensors, even if your tire pressures are correct.
What To Do: Driving with improper tire pressure is dangerous and can damage your tires, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Stop as soon as safely possible to check your tire pressures. Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire and inflate or deflate them to the recommended pressure, usually found on a sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
If the light persists or was flashing, it could be a TPMS sensor issue. While a TPMS malfunction won’t directly harm your tires, it prevents the system from alerting you to future pressure problems. It’s advisable to have your TPMS checked by a tire service professional.
Read: Decoding Your TPMS Light: What’s Really Going On?
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light
Engine Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, resembling a thermometer submerged in liquid, signals that your engine is overheating. Overheating is often related to the engine coolant (antifreeze) system, but can stem from various causes like coolant leaks, a faulty thermostat, or radiator issues.
What To Do: Immediate action is needed to prevent serious engine damage from overheating. First, try turning off your car’s air conditioning and turning on the heater to maximum, with the fan on high. This redirects heat away from the engine compartment. If the light doesn’t turn off after a couple of minutes, pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine completely. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting to open the hood. Opening the hood while the engine is hot can be dangerous due to the risk of burns from escaping steam or hot coolant.
While waiting for the engine to cool, plan your next steps. Contacting roadside assistance for coolant top-up or towing to a repair shop is a prudent decision. Driving a severely overheated engine can cause irreparable damage.
Read: The Dangers of an Overheating Engine: What You Need to Know
4. Traction Control Light
What It Means: This symbol, often depicting a car with wavy lines underneath, indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is actively engaged. The traction control system uses sensors and the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect if a wheel is losing traction and spinning faster than others. When wheel slip is detected, the system automatically applies braking force to the slipping wheel(s) and may reduce engine power to help regain traction. This is particularly helpful in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice.
What To Do: If this light is flashing intermittently, it means the traction control system is working as intended to help maintain control in slippery conditions. You can continue driving, but be mindful of the road conditions and drive cautiously. If the light is constantly illuminated, it could indicate a problem with the traction control system (see “Traction Control Malfunction Light”).
5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
ABS Warning Light
What It Means: The ABS warning light, usually displaying the letters “ABS,” indicates a malfunction within your car’s Anti-lock Braking System. ABS is a crucial safety feature that prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, especially on slippery surfaces, allowing you to maintain steering control. When this light is on, the ABS system is not functioning properly.
What To Do: Since ABS is a vital safety system, it’s essential to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. While your regular brakes will still function, you will not have the benefits of ABS in emergency braking situations. Schedule an appointment with a qualified mechanic to inspect and repair your ABS system.
Read: How ABS Works: Enhancing Braking Safety
6. Traction Control Malfunction Light
What It Means: This light, sometimes similar to the traction control light but often with the word “OFF” or “!” symbol, indicates a problem specifically with the traction control system. It could be due to a faulty sensor, damage to system components, or a more complex malfunction. In some vehicles, the ABS and traction control systems are linked, so this light might illuminate in conjunction with or due to ABS issues.
What To Do: While this light is on, your traction control system may not be operating, or its effectiveness might be reduced. For everyday driving in good conditions, this might not be immediately critical. However, in wet, snowy, or icy conditions, the lack of traction control can significantly increase the risk of losing control. It’s recommended to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic soon to ensure your traction control system is functioning correctly, especially before driving in inclement weather.
7. Check Engine Light
Check Engine Light
What It Means: The check engine light, often shaped like an engine block or simply stating “CHECK ENGINE,” is one of the most ambiguous car warning symbols. It can illuminate for a wide range of reasons, from minor issues like a loose gas cap preventing proper sealing and causing fuel evaporation, to serious engine or emissions control system problems. Some vehicles might 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 light is solid and steady, and you don’t notice any significant changes in how your car drives (no unusual noises, smells, or performance issues), you can typically continue driving for a short distance, ideally to your home or a trusted mechanic. However, it’s crucial to get it checked as soon as possible.
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 an engine misfire or another issue that could cause significant damage if ignored. In this case, you should stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so and have your vehicle towed to a repair shop.
Read: Driving with the Check Engine Light On: When is it Safe?
8. Battery Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, resembling a car battery, indicates a problem within your vehicle’s charging system. Potential causes include a loose or corroded battery cable, a failing alternator (which charges the battery while the engine is running), or other electrical system faults. You might notice symptoms like dimming headlights, a fading clock display, or, in more severe cases, the car failing to start at all.
What To Do: A malfunctioning charging system can lead to your car battery being drained, leaving you stranded. It’s advisable to have your vehicle’s charging system inspected by a mechanic promptly. They can diagnose battery and electrical issues and recommend necessary repairs or battery replacement. Addressing this promptly can prevent your car from suddenly not starting, requiring a jump-start.
Read: Car Won’t Start? Troubleshooting Electrical Issues
9. Low Fuel Light
Low Fuel Light
What It Means: This symbol, shaped like a fuel pump, is a straightforward indicator that your vehicle is running low on fuel. It’s a reminder to refuel soon.
What To Do: 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, especially if you are unsure of the exact amount of fuel remaining or if you anticipate encountering traffic or detours.
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 filler door is located, making refueling more convenient at unfamiliar gas stations.
10. Automatic Shift Lock Indicator
What It Means: This symbol, often a foot pressing a brake pedal or a similar icon, typically illuminates when you are attempting to shift out of “Park” or start your engine in an automatic transmission vehicle without pressing the brake pedal. Modern vehicles have a shift lock mechanism that prevents shifting out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is depressed, as a safety feature.
What To Do: If you see this light, ensure your foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal. Once you do, you should be able to shift gears or start the ignition as intended.
11. Seat Belt Reminder Light
Seat Belt Reminder Light
What It Means: This symbol, depicting a person wearing a seatbelt, is a simple reminder to buckle your seatbelt. It is usually accompanied by an audible chime or buzzing sound.
What To Do: Fasten your seatbelt immediately. Seatbelts are a critical safety feature, significantly reducing the risk of serious injuries in accidents.
Source: CDC – Seat Belt Safety Facts
12. Airbag Warning Light
What It Means: The airbag warning light, often displaying the word “AIRBAG” or a symbol of a person with an airbag deploying, indicates a malfunction within the vehicle’s airbag system. This could involve issues with the airbags themselves, the sensors, or the system’s control module.
What To Do: A properly functioning airbag system is crucial for occupant safety in a collision. If this light is illuminated, it means your airbags might not deploy correctly in an accident. It’s essential to have your vehicle’s airbag system inspected and repaired by a qualified technician without delay to ensure your safety.
13. Security System Warning Light
Security System Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, often a padlock or a car key with an exclamation point, relates to your vehicle’s anti-theft security system. Its behavior can indicate different states:
- Blinking Steadily: Indicates the security system is armed and actively monitoring for unauthorized entry or theft attempts. This is normal when the car is locked and the system is engaged.
- Solid and Car Won’t Start: Suggests the vehicle’s immobilizer system has been activated, possibly due to a perceived security threat or a system malfunction. This prevents the engine from starting.
- Solid and Car Running Normally: Indicates a malfunction within the security system itself. While the car is running, the security system is not operating correctly and needs attention.
What To Do: If the vehicle is immobilized due to security system activation, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to disarm or reset the system. This might involve using your key fob in a particular way or entering a security code. If it’s a system malfunction, where the light is solid while driving normally, your security system is not providing proper protection. Schedule a service appointment to have the security system diagnosed and repaired.
14. Fog Light Indicator
What It Means: This symbol, typically depicting a headlight with a wavy line through it, indicates that your vehicle’s fog lights are turned on.
What To Do: Fog lights are designed to improve visibility in foggy or heavy rain conditions. They should only be used when visibility is significantly reduced (typically less than 100 yards). Using fog lights in clear conditions or normal rain can create glare for other drivers and is often illegal. Remember to turn off your fog lights when visibility improves.
15. Washer Fluid Low Indicator
Washer Fluid Low Indicator
What It Means: This symbol, often resembling a windshield with water being sprayed, indicates that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is low and needs refilling.
What To Do: Replenish your windshield washer fluid as soon as convenient. Maintaining adequate washer fluid is essential for keeping your windshield clean and ensuring good visibility, especially in inclement weather or when driving on dirty roads.
16. Brake System Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol can appear in a few forms: the word “BRAKE” in red, or a symbol of a circle with an exclamation point inside, often enclosed in parentheses. It indicates a problem with your vehicle’s braking system or that the parking brake is engaged.
What To Do: First, if this light illuminates, safely pull over and check if your parking brake is engaged. If it is, disengage it completely. If the light remains on after releasing the parking brake, it signifies a more serious issue within your braking system. This could be related to low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or other brake system malfunctions. In this case, it is crucial to have your vehicle towed to a qualified repair shop for immediate inspection and repair. Driving with a brake system warning light illuminated can be extremely dangerous.
17. Lane Departure Warning Light
Lane Departure Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, often depicting lane markings and a vehicle drifting out of a lane, indicates that your vehicle is equipped with a Lane Departure Warning System and that it is actively detecting your vehicle drifting out of its lane. The system is designed to alert the driver to unintentional lane departures, often through visual warnings, audible alerts, or steering wheel vibrations.
What To Do: If this light illuminates and you receive an alert, it means the system has detected you drifting out of your lane. Correct your steering to safely stay within your lane. The system might activate when you are intentionally changing lanes without using your turn signal, so it’s important to use your signals to indicate lane changes.
18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: This symbol, sometimes represented by a thermometer-like icon with a gear, indicates that your vehicle’s transmission is overheating. Transmission overheating can be caused by various factors, including low transmission fluid, worn-out transmission components, demanding driving conditions like heavy towing, or other mechanical issues within the transmission system.
What To Do: Transmission overheating can lead to significant and costly damage to your transmission. If this light comes on, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and turn off the vehicle to allow the transmission to cool down. Wait for a significant period before attempting to drive again. If the light persists, or if you frequently experience this warning, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a transmission specialist to diagnose the cause of overheating and perform necessary repairs. Continuing to drive with an overheating transmission can result in severe damage.
Explore Transmission Services
Still Concerned About a Car Warning Symbol?
Dashboard warning symbols are your car’s way of communicating its needs. While this guide covers many common symbols, every vehicle is unique, and symbol designs can vary slightly between manufacturers. When in doubt, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It’s the definitive guide to your specific car’s warning symbols and recommended actions.
If you are unsure about a warning light or concerned about your vehicle’s condition, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Qualified automotive technicians can accurately diagnose the cause of any warning light and perform the necessary repairs to ensure your vehicle is safe and reliable. Schedule a check-up with a trusted mechanic to address any car warning symbol that you find concerning. Find a Repair Shop Near You
