We’ve all experienced that moment of mild panic while driving: a sudden beep followed by an unfamiliar symbol illuminating on your car’s dashboard. It’s natural to wonder, even worry, about what might be going wrong with your vehicle.
While some car dashboard symbols are instantly recognizable, others can be quite cryptic. However, understanding these warning lights is crucial. Knowing their meanings allows you to react appropriately, ensuring your safety and preventing potential vehicle damage. This guide will help you decipher the common Car Dash Symbols you might encounter.
Understanding the Types of Car Dashboard Symbols
It’s important to remember that not every dashboard light signals a problem. Many symbols are simply indicators of activated vehicle features – think headlights, cruise control, lane departure warnings, or blind-spot monitoring. Others relate to normal vehicle operation, like tire pressure monitoring or engine temperature.
When interpreting dashboard lights, color is key! Green or blue lights are generally informational, indicating that a system is active and functioning correctly. Orange or yellow warning lights are usually advisory, suggesting that your vehicle requires servicing or attention soon. These are less critical than red lights, which demand immediate action.
A red dashboard light typically signifies a serious issue that needs your prompt attention. Some red lights are safety reminders, such as the seat belt warning, while others indicate mechanical problems like engine overheating. If a red mechanical warning light appears, it’s essential to pull over safely as soon as possible to assess the situation. Ignoring a red light could lead to vehicle breakdown or further damage.
Keep these two points in mind as you learn about dashboard symbols:
- Car dashboards can vary slightly between makes and models. Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the most accurate and detailed information about your specific car’s symbols.
- It’s normal for many dashboard lights to briefly illuminate when you start your car as part of a system check. If these lights turn off within a few seconds, it indicates that the systems are functioning as expected.
18 Common Warning Lights on Your Car’s Dashboard Explained
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. Engine Warning Light (Check Engine Light) 8. Battery Alert Light 9. Low Fuel Indicator Light 10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light 11. Seat Belt Reminder Light 12. Airbag Warning Light 13. Security Indicator Light 14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light 15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light 16. Brake Warning Light 17. Lane Departure Warning Light 18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light
What It Means: Represented by a traditional oil can symbol, this car dash symbol indicates a problem within your vehicle’s oil pressure system. This could mean your car is low on engine oil, or that the oil pump isn’t effectively circulating oil to lubricate your engine components. (Some vehicles may display the word “OIL” instead of this symbol).
What To Do: Low oil pressure can lead to significant engine damage due to inadequate lubrication. This is a serious warning! Safely pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible, turn off your engine, and check your engine oil level. Inspect around the engine area for any obvious oil leaks. Then, use the oil dipstick to check the oil level.
If the oil level is low, adding oil might resolve the issue and the light may turn off. If the oil level seems adequate but the engine sounds unusually noisy, it could signal a problem with the oil pump. If both the oil level and engine sound seem normal, the oil pressure sensor itself might be faulty. In any of these scenarios, it’s crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic promptly to diagnose and address the cause of the low oil pressure.
Read: Understanding Oil Changes: How Often Does Your Car Need One?
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light
What It Means: Often referred to as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) symbol, this car dash symbol, resembling a horseshoe with an exclamation point, warns of a tire pressure issue or a problem with the TPMS itself.
If the TPMS symbol is continuously lit, it means that one or more of your tires have incorrect air pressure – either too low or too high. If the TPMS symbol flashes for about a minute to a minute and a half after starting your car and then remains illuminated, even if your tire pressures are correct, it indicates a malfunction within the TPMS sensors.
What To Do: Driving with improper tire pressure is dangerous and can damage your tires, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. It’s recommended to stop as soon as you can safely do so and use a tire pressure gauge and air pump to adjust your tires to the recommended pressure, usually found on a sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
If the light activates when you’re near a Virginia Tire & Auto location, feel free to stop by! They offer free air for tire inflation at all their locations, and their technicians can also repair or replace tires if needed.
They can also inspect your TPMS sensors to identify and quote for any necessary repairs. A faulty TPMS won’t impact tire performance directly, but it will prevent the system from alerting you to future low tire pressure situations.
Read: Decoding Your TPMS Light: What Does It Mean and What Should You Do?
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: This car dash 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 underlying issues.
What To Do: First, try reducing engine load by turning off the air conditioning and turning on your car’s heater to divert heat away from the engine and into the passenger cabin. If the light persists after a few minutes, pull over safely and turn off the engine completely. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 15-20 minutes. Crucially, do not open the hood while the engine is hot! Opening the hood prematurely can risk burns from escaping steam or hot coolant.
While waiting for the engine to cool, plan your next steps. Calling a roadside assistance service to request coolant top-up or arrange for a tow to a qualified repair shop is a prudent action.
(Virginia Tire & Auto services include complimentary Roadside Assistance coverage for 365 days, up to $200 in value, with every car care service.)
Read: Engine Overheating: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention Tips
4. Traction Control Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, often showing a car with squiggly lines underneath, indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is actively engaged. The traction control system uses the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect if a wheel is losing traction and spinning faster than others. If wheel slip is detected, the system automatically applies braking force to the slipping wheel(s) until traction is regained. This system is particularly helpful when driving in slippery conditions like rain or snow.
What To Do: If this light is flashing intermittently, it means the system is working as designed to help maintain control in slippery conditions. Continue driving cautiously, being mindful of the road conditions. If the light stays on continuously, it could indicate a malfunction in the system (see “Traction Control Malfunction Light” below).
5. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light
What It Means: The ABS, a vital safety feature, prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, especially on slick surfaces, by pulsing the brakes. If the ABS warning light, typically displaying “ABS”, illuminates on your dashboard, it signifies a malfunction within the Anti-lock Braking System.
What To Do: Given the crucial safety role of ABS, it’s important to have a qualified mechanic diagnose and repair the issue as soon as possible. While your regular braking system will still function, the anti-lock function might be compromised, especially in emergency braking situations.
Read: How Anti-Lock Braking Systems Enhance Vehicle Safety
6. Traction Control Malfunction Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, often similar to the traction control light but may be constantly illuminated or include the word “OFF”, signals a potential fault within your vehicle’s traction control system. This could be due to a faulty sensor, damage, or another system malfunction. In some vehicles, the ABS and traction control systems share a control module, so this light might sometimes activate due to ABS-related issues as well.
What To Do: While this light being on may not affect normal, everyday driving in good conditions, it means your traction control system may not function correctly in slippery or inclement weather. It’s advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic soon to ensure your safety in challenging driving conditions.
7. Engine Warning Light (Check Engine Light)
What It Means: The “check engine light,” often represented by an engine-shaped car dash symbol or the words “CHECK ENGINE,” is one of the more ambiguous warning lights. It can illuminate for a wide range of reasons, from minor to serious. Sometimes, it’s triggered by something as simple as a loose or cracked gas cap, leading to fuel vapor leaks. However, it can also indicate significant engine problems, such as low oil pressure or engine overheating.
What To Do: If the check engine light is on but you haven’t noticed any changes in your car’s performance, and there are no unusual noises or smells, it’s generally considered safe to drive a short distance – ideally back home or to a trusted repair shop like Virginia Tire & Auto.
However, if the check engine light is red or flashing, this is a more urgent warning! A flashing check engine light usually indicates a serious issue that could cause significant engine damage if ignored. In this case, stop driving immediately!
In either scenario (solid or flashing light), it’s crucial to have the cause of the check engine light diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to prevent potential engine damage and ensure your vehicle is running efficiently and safely.
Read: Driving with the Check Engine Light On: Is It Safe or Risky?
8. Battery Alert Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, resembling a battery, indicates a problem within your vehicle’s charging system. Potential causes include loose or corroded battery terminals, a failing alternator, 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: Electrical and battery issues can be complex, and professional diagnosis is often necessary. Experts at automotive service centers can effectively diagnose battery and electrical problems. If a battery replacement is needed, consider quality brands like Interstate Batteries. Don’t delay getting this checked, as you might end up needing to jump-start your car to get it to a repair facility.
Read: Car Won’t Start? Troubleshooting Common Electrical System Issues
9. Low Fuel Indicator Light
What It Means: Likely a familiar car dash symbol to most drivers, this symbol, shaped like a fuel pump, simply indicates that your vehicle is running low on fuel.
What To Do: While you might have some fuel reserve left when this light comes on, it’s best not to push your luck, especially if you have a significant distance to travel. Unexpected traffic or weather conditions can lead to increased fuel consumption. It’s always wiser to stop at the nearest gas station and refuel.
Bonus Tip: Most modern vehicles have a small triangle or arrow icon next to the fuel pump symbol on your fuel gauge. This handy arrow indicates which side of your car the fuel filler door is located on!
10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, often showing a foot pressing a pedal, typically indicates that you are attempting to shift out of “Park” or start your engine without pressing the brake pedal. The automatic shift lock mechanism is designed to keep your vehicle in “Park” or “Neutral” until the brake pedal is engaged, as a safety measure.
What To Do: Simply ensure the vehicle is in “Park” or “Neutral,” firmly press the brake pedal, and then attempt to shift gears or start the ignition.
11. Seat Belt Reminder Light
What It Means: This straightforward car dash symbol, depicting a person wearing a seatbelt, is a reminder for you or your passengers to fasten your seatbelts. It’s usually accompanied by an audible chime or repetitive dinging sound.
What To Do: Buckle up! Seat belts are a critical safety feature. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), seat belts reduce the risk of serious injuries in crashes by approximately 50%. Make sure all occupants in your vehicle are properly wearing their seat belts.
12. Airbag Warning Light
What It Means: The airbag warning light, often displaying the word “AIRBAG” or a symbol of a person with a deployed airbag, signals a problem within the vehicle’s airbag system. This could involve any of the airbags or the overall system’s control and sensors.
What To Do: A malfunctioning airbag system poses a significant safety risk in the event of a collision. It’s essential to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately to diagnose and repair any airbag system faults. Airbags are a critical safety component and must be functioning correctly.
13. Security Indicator Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, often a padlock icon, relates to your vehicle’s anti-theft security system. If the symbol is blinking steadily, it typically indicates that the security system is armed and active. 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. If the light is solid while the car is running normally, it may indicate a malfunction within the security system itself.
What To Do: If the vehicle is immobilized due to the security system, consult your vehicle owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to deactivate or reset the security system. If it appears to be a system malfunction, the security system may not be operating correctly until it is professionally repaired.
14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light
What It Means: This car dash symbol, usually showing a headlight symbol with a wavy line crossing it, simply indicates that your vehicle’s fog lights are currently switched on.
What To Do: Fog lights are designed for use in conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog, heavy rain, or snow. They should only be used when visibility is significantly limited (typically less than 100 yards). Using fog lights unnecessarily in clear conditions can create glare and reduce visibility for other drivers on the road. Remember to turn them off when visibility improves.
15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light
What It Means: Mimicking the motion of windshield wipers spraying fluid, this car dash symbol indicates that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is low and needs refilling.
What To Do: Replenish your windshield washer fluid reservoir as soon as it’s convenient. Maintaining adequate washer fluid is important for keeping your windshield clean and ensuring good visibility, especially in inclement weather or when driving on dusty or dirty roads.
16. Brake Warning Light
What It Means: If you see this car dash symbol, often an exclamation point inside a circle, or the word “BRAKE” illuminated in red, it can indicate two things: either the parking brake is engaged, or there is a problem within your vehicle’s braking system itself.
What To Do: First, safely stop your vehicle and check if the parking brake is engaged. If it is, disengage it fully. If the light remains on even after releasing the parking brake, it suggests a potential issue with your braking system. In this case, for safety reasons, it’s recommended to have your car towed to a qualified service center like Virginia Tire & Auto for inspection and repair. Do not continue driving with a brake warning light illuminated unless it’s solely due to the parking brake being engaged.
17. Lane Departure Warning Light
What It Means: Many modern vehicles are equipped with a lane departure warning system. This car dash symbol, often depicting lane markings with a car drifting, illuminates when the system detects that your vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane. It’s often accompanied by a beeping sound or steering wheel vibration as a warning.
What To Do: If this light activates, check your steering and adjust your vehicle’s position to remain within your lane. The system might activate intentionally when you are purposefully changing lanes without using your turn signal.
18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
What It Means: If this car dash symbol, resembling a thermometer in a gear, appears on your dashboard, it indicates that your transmission is overheating. This overheating could be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn transmission components, heavy towing, or other factors.
What To Do: Transmission overheating can lead to serious and costly damage. Pull over to a safe location as soon as possible and turn off your vehicle to allow the transmission to cool down. Wait for a significant period before attempting to drive again. It’s crucial to get your vehicle to a repair shop as soon as possible to diagnose and address the cause of the transmission overheating. If the light doesn’t turn off after cooling down, or if you have a long distance to travel, it’s best to call for a tow truck to prevent further damage.
Experiencing Car Trouble?
Whether you need routine maintenance like a simple oil change or require more complex diagnostics and repairs, Virginia Tire & Auto is here to help. Their team of experienced technicians can accurately diagnose and repair vehicle issues, getting you back on the road safely and with confidence. Schedule your service appointment at one of their conveniently located Virginia Tire & Auto locations today!
