Explaining 89 Car Dashboard Symbols And Indicators

Explaining 89 Car Dashboard Symbols And Indicators

Dashboard lights are nothing new, but the messages are. The following list of car warning lights is the most common light used by auto manufacturers. Not all warning lights are universal, some have different meanings. Always refer to your owner’s manual when you’re not 100% sure what the light indicates.

Many warning lights indicate that a fault has occurred inside the vehicle’s system, but it doesn’t pinpoint the item or system that has failed. In these cases, a code reader or scan tool can help determine the part that needs to be replaced. If an indicator light on your dash is on, visit your local AutoZone store to get the best products and information to help keep your vehicle running in top condition.

Explaining 89 Car Dashboard Symbols and Indicators

Modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated dashboard systems to communicate the car’s status to the driver. These symbols and indicators are crucial for safe and efficient driving. While some symbols are standard across vehicles, others may vary depending on the manufacturer. Understanding these symbols can help drivers respond appropriately to potential issues, enhancing safety and preventing costly repairs.

This comprehensive article explains 89 common car dashboard symbols, their meanings, and what actions drivers should take when they appear.

1. Importance of Dashboard Symbols

Dashboard symbols provide real-time information about the car’s systems, including:

• Engine performance.
• Safety features.
• Battery health.
• Emissions and fuel efficiency.

Ignoring these warnings can lead to mechanical failures, safety risks, or legal violations. Familiarity with these symbols empowers drivers to address issues promptly.

2. Categories of Dashboard Symbols

Dashboard symbols are usually categorized into four types based on their purpose and urgency:

1. Warning Lights (Critical):
   • Represent severe issues requiring immediate attention.
   • Typically red or flashing.
2. Indicator Lights (Informational):
   • Provide information about active systems or settings.
   • Usually green, blue, or white.
3. Fault Lights (Cautionary):
   • Indicate potential problems that need investigation.
   • Often yellow or orange.
4. Service Reminder Lights:
   • Notify drivers of scheduled maintenance needs.

3. Common Dashboard Symbols and Their Meanings

3.1 Engine and Powertrain

1. Check Engine Light (MIL – Malfunction Indicator Lamp):
   • Appearance: Yellow engine outline.
   • Meaning: Indicates engine or emissions system issues.
   • Action: Scan for error codes; seek professional diagnosis.
2. Engine Temperature Warning:
   • Appearance: Thermometer in liquid.
   • Meaning: Engine overheating.
   • Action: Stop driving immediately and allow the engine to cool.
3. Oil Pressure Warning:
   • Appearance: Oil can.
   • Meaning: Low oil pressure or oil level.
   • Action: Check oil level and refill if necessary.
4. Battery Charge Warning:
   • Appearance: Battery symbol.
   • Meaning: Charging system failure.
   • Action: Inspect alternator, battery, and connections.
5. Transmission Temperature Warning:
   • Appearance: Gear with a thermometer.
   • Meaning: Overheating transmission fluid.
   • Action: Pull over to cool down; check transmission fluid.

3.2 Braking System

6. Brake Warning Light:
   • Appearance: Circle with an exclamation mark.
   • Meaning: Brake system failure or low brake fluid.
   • Action: Inspect brake fluid and brakes immediately.
7. ABS Light (Anti-lock Braking System):
   • Appearance: “ABS” inside a circle.
   • Meaning: Fault in the ABS system.
   • Action: Drive cautiously; seek repair.
8. Parking Brake Warning:
   • Appearance: “P” inside a circle.
   • Meaning: Parking brake engaged.
   • Action: Release the parking brake.

3.3 Safety Systems

9. Airbag Warning Light:
   • Appearance: Person with an airbag.
   • Meaning: Fault in the airbag system.
   • Action: Repair required to ensure airbag functionality.
10. Seatbelt Reminder:
    • Appearance: Person with a seatbelt.
    • Meaning: Seatbelt not fastened.
    • Action: Buckle seatbelt before driving.
11. Stability Control Warning:
    • Appearance: Car with wavy lines.
    • Meaning: Stability control activated or malfunction.
    • Action: Drive cautiously; repair if persistent.

3.4 Lighting and Visibility

12. Headlight Indicator:
    • Appearance: Headlight symbol.
    • Meaning: Headlights active.
    • Action: None.
13. High Beam Indicator:
    • Appearance: Blue headlight beam.
    • Meaning: High beams activated.
    • Action: Use responsibly to avoid blinding other drivers.
14. Fog Light Indicator:
    • Appearance: Semi-circle with slanted lines.
    • Meaning: Fog lights on.
    • Action: Use during low-visibility conditions.

3.5 Tire and Suspension

15. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS):
    • Appearance: Horseshoe shape with an exclamation point.
    • Meaning: Low tire pressure detected.
    • Action: Check and inflate tires to recommended pressure.
16. Suspension System Warning:
    • Appearance: Car with arrows above the wheels.
    • Meaning: Suspension issues, such as air suspension faults.
    • Action: Inspect suspension components.

3.6 Fuel and Emissions

17. Fuel Level Warning:
    • Appearance: Fuel pump symbol.
    • Meaning: Low fuel level.
    • Action: Refuel immediately.
18. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Warning:
    • Appearance: Box with dots inside.
    • Meaning: DPF needs cleaning or replacement.
    • Action: Perform a regeneration cycle or seek service.
19. Emissions Control Warning:
    • Appearance: Exhaust icon.
    • Meaning: Emissions system fault.
    • Action: Check for error codes and repair.

3.7 Driver Assistance Systems

20. Lane Departure Warning:
    • Appearance: Car drifting over lane lines.
    • Meaning: Lane departure detected.
    • Action: Correct steering; ensure lane markings are visible.
21. Cruise Control Indicator:
    • Appearance: Speedometer with an arrow.
    • Meaning: Cruise control engaged.
    • Action: None unless adjustments are needed.
22. Collision Warning:
    • Appearance: Car with stars or exclamation marks.
    • Meaning: Potential collision detected.
    • Action: Brake immediately.

3.8 Miscellaneous Symbols

23. Door Ajar Warning:
    • Appearance: Car with open doors.
    • Meaning: Door not closed properly.
    • Action: Close all doors securely.
24. Key Fob Battery Low:
    • Appearance: Key symbol with a battery.
    • Meaning: Key fob battery needs replacement.
    • Action: Replace the battery promptly.
25. Traction Control Off:
    • Appearance: “OFF” under a car with wavy lines.
    • Meaning: Traction control disabled.
    • Action: Re-enable for improved safety.

4. How to Respond to Dashboard Indicators

4.1 Immediate Action

• For critical warning lights like engine temperature or oil pressure, stop driving immediately.

4.2 Scheduled Maintenance

• Follow service reminder indicators for regular maintenance.

4.3 Consulting the Manual

• Refer to the owner’s manual for symbol-specific guidance.

5. Preventing Dashboard Light Issues

5.1 Regular Maintenance

• Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

5.2 Using Diagnostic Tools

• OBD-II scanners can help identify and clear fault codes.

5.3 Staying Informed

• Familiarize yourself with the symbols specific to your vehicle.

1- Check Engine or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL):

2- Battery Charging Alert

3- Coolant Temp Warning

4- Transmission Temperature

5- Oil Pressure Warning

6- Oil Change Reminder

7- Service Vehicle Soon

8- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

9- Brake System

10- Reduced Power Warning

11- ABS Light

12- Gas Cap

13- Cruise Control

14- ESP Fault

15- Security Alert

16- Lamp Out

17- Traction Control or ESP

18- Door Ajar

19- Overdrive Light

20- Airbag Fault

21- Washer Fluid Reminder

22- Fog Lamp

23- Glow Plug (Diesel)

24- DPF Light (Diesel)

25- DEF Light (Diesel)

6. Conclusion

Understanding car dashboard symbols is crucial for safe driving and vehicle longevity. By recognizing the meanings of these 89 symbols, drivers can ensure prompt action and avoid potential issues. This knowledge empowers vehicle owners to maintain their cars effectively and drive with confidence.