Types of Car Dashboard Symbols
The car dashboard light can generally be divided into three categories:
- Red lights: Indicate a critical problem or safety concern. Pull over safely and fix the issue.
- Yellow/Orange lights: Yellow car warning lights mean something needs to be looked after soon, but it is not urgent.
- Green or Blue Lights: These indicate that a feature or system is active and functioning correctly. They are typically used for driver-assistance features like cruise control, headlights, or lane-keeping systems.
Here is a list of common car dashboard symbols and meanings:
Common Symbol | Meaning | Action |
Engine Warning Light | Possible engine issue | Check immediately |
Oil Pressure Warning | Low oil pressure | Stop and check the oil |
Battery Warning | Charging issue | Inspect battery/alternator |
Brake System Warning | Brake fault or handbrake on | Stop and investigate |
ABS Warning | Anti-lock brake system fault | Drive cautiously |
Tyre Pressure Warning | Low tyre pressure | Check tyres soon |
Coolant Temperature Warning | Engine overheating | Stop and let the engine cool |
Airbag Warning | Airbag malfunction | Get inspected |
Check Engine Light | Emission or engine problem | Scan and repair |
Seat Belt Reminder | Seatbelt not fastened | Buckle up |
Door Ajar Warning | One or more doors are open | Close all doors securely |
Fuel Warning Light | Low fuel level | Refuel soon |
Traction Control Light | Traction control system active or faulty | Drive carefully, and check if it stays on |
Washer Fluid Warning | Low windshield washer fluid | Refill the washer fluid reservoir |
Fog Light Indicator | Front/rear fog lights are on | Turn off if not needed |
Most Common Car Dashboard Symbols (Car Warning Lights)
The following are the most common car display symbols:
1. Engine Warning Light
- Symbol: Engine block-shaped.
- Meaning: This car sign signifies that there is a problem with the engine or emissions system.
- What to do: Don’t ignore it. Get your car checked by a mechanic. It could be something minor or a serious problem.
2. Oil Pressure Warning Light
- Symbol: An oil can dripping.
- Meaning: This car dashboard symbol indicates that the oil pressure is too low.
- What to do: Pull over and inspect the oil level. Low oil pressure while driving may ruin the engine.
3. Battery Warning Light
- Symbol: A battery icon.
- Meaning: Something is amiss with the battery charging system.
- What to do: Check the battery and alternator. When the battery runs down, your car will come to a halt.
4. Brake System Warning Light
- Symbol: A circle surrounded by an exclamation mark or "BRAKE".
- Meaning: This car warning light suggests low brake fluid, brake pads are worn out, or the handbrake remains on.
- What to do: Do not move until resolved.
5. ABS Warning Light
- Symbol: Letters "ABS" within a circle.
- Meaning: This car indicator signs suggest that the anti-lock braking system isn't functioning properly.
- What to do: The vehicle can still brake, though ABS won't assist during emergencies.
6. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
- Symbol: An exclamation mark within a flat tyre shape.
- Meaning: One or more tyres have low pressure.
- What to do: Pump up your tyres to the correct pressure.
7. Coolant Temperature Warning Light
- Car symbols: A mercury-filled thermometer in water.
- Meaning: The coolant temperature has exceeded the higher limit.
- What to do: Pull over and let the car cool. Never open the radiator cap when the car is hot.
8. Airbag Warning Light
- Symbol: A person sitting in a circle (airbag).
- Meaning: There's an airbag system malfunction.
- What to do: Check it. Airbags may not open in an accident.
9. Check Engine Light (CEL)
- Symbol: Looks like the engine light, but is usually yellow.
- Meaning: Something is wrong with the emission control or engine.
- What to do: Use an OBD-II scanner or see a mechanic.
10. Seat Belt Reminder Light
- Symbol: A person wearing a seatbelt
- Meaning: Someone in the vehicle is not buckled.
- What to do: Buckle up at once.
11. Low Windshield Washer Fluid Light
- Symbol: Windshield with dotted spray above it.
- Meaning: The windshield washer fluid level is low.
- What to do: Refill the washer fluid tank when possible.
12. Cruise Control Indicator Light
- Symbol: A speedometer with an arrow or dial.
- Meaning: The cruise control system is active.
- What to do: No action needed unless you want to turn it off.
13. Automatic Shift Lock Warning Light
- Symbol: A foot and brake symbol.
- Meaning: You need to press the brake pedal to shift out of park.
- What to do: Step on the brake to change gears.
14. Hill Descent Control Indicator
- Symbol: A vehicle on a slope with a speedometer symbol.
- Meaning: Hill descent control is engaged for slow-speed downhill driving.
- What to do: No action needed unless you want to deactivate it.
15. Side Airbag Warning Light
- Symbol: A seat with an airbag on the side.
- Meaning: There's a problem with the side airbags.
- What to do: Get it inspected for safety.
16. Key Not Detected Light
- Symbol: A key icon with a slash or warning sign.
- Meaning: The car cannot detect the key fob.
- What to do: Check if the key is inside or replace its battery.
17. Catalytic Converter Warning Light
- Symbol: An engine with dots or heat waves.
- Meaning: Problem with the catalytic converter.
- What to do: Have the emission system checked right away.
18. Low Key Fob Battery Indicator
- Symbol: A key with a battery icon.
- Meaning: The key fob battery is running low.
- What to do: Replace the battery soon to avoid starting issues.
19. 4WD or AWD Warning Light
- Symbol: 4WD or AWD letters, sometimes with an exclamation mark.
- Meaning: A Fault in the four-wheel or all-wheel drive system.
- What to do: Get the drivetrain inspected.
20. Power Steering Warning Light
- Symbol: A steering wheel with an exclamation mark.
- Meaning: Problem with the power steering system.
- What to do: Driving may become harder; get it repaired.
These car dashboard symbols indicate that you should pull over and look at the issue straight away:
- Engine Temperature Warning Light
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
- Brake System Warning
- Battery Warning Light
- Check Engine Light (if flashing)
- Low Brake Fluid Warning Light
- Power Steering Warning Light
- Diesel Particulate Filtrate (DPF) Warning Light
- Master Warning Light
- Door Ajar Warning Light
Engine Temperature Warning Light
If the engine temperature warning light appears on your car's dashboard, it means the engine is overheating. Continuing to drive can lead to major damage, such as a blown head gasket. Pull over and allow the engine to cool.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This dashboard warning light indicates low oil pressure. Low oil pressure can leave your engine underlubricated. The journey could easily have damaged your engine. Check the oil level and top up or tow to a repair shop.
Brake System Warning Light
This car symbol can mean low brake fluid or worn brake pads. Driving without brakes is extremely dangerous.
Battery Warning Light
This car dashboard symbol indicates that your alternator in your vehicle is not working properly, and the battery will not get charged, and eventually, your vehicle will stall. Check the charging system as soon as possible.
Flashing Check Engine Light
A flashing check engine light warns of a serious misfire that may even destroy your catalytic converter. Pull up to the side immediately.
Low Brake Fluid Warning Light
This symbol means there isn’t enough brake fluid in your car. Without it, your brakes may not work well or fail completely, making it unsafe to keep driving. Stop the car and check the brake fluid level.
Power Steering Warning Light
This light shows a problem with the power steering system. You may find it hard to turn the steering wheel. This can be dangerous, especially at low speeds. Get it fixed as soon as possible.
Diesel Particulate Filtrate(DPF)Warning Light
This light appears in diesel cars when the filter is blocked. The car may lose power or give off more smoke. Driving with a blocked DPF can harm the engine. It should be cleaned or repaired quickly.
Master Warning Light
This general warning light means there’s a serious issue somewhere in the car. It’s usually paired with a message or another light. You shouldn’t ignore it. Check your vehicle information display or visit a service centre fast.
Door Ajar Warning Light
This symbol tells you that one or more doors are not fully closed. Driving with open doors is dangerous. Stop the car and shut all doors tightly. Make sure the light goes off before moving again.
These are useful car dashboard symbols and meanings that are not urgent. Continue driving, but these should be checked soon.
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring Light
- ABS Warning Light
- Airbag Warning Light
- Washer Fluid Indicator
- Cruise Control Indicator
- Fog Light Indicator
- Seat Belt Reminder Light
- Headlight Indicator Light
- Rear Windshield Defrost Light
- Parking Sensors Indicator
Tyre Pressure Monitoring Light
Low tyre pressure warning signs shouldn’t be ignored. Underinflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency, affect handling, and increase the risk of blowouts. They also lead to uneven wear. Always refill to the recommended pressure promptly to maintain safety and performance.
ABS Warning Light
The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) warning light signals a fault in the system that prevents wheel lock during hard braking. While your standard brakes will still work, you’ll lose the added safety and control ABS provides. Have it checked promptly to avoid risks in emergency situations.
Airbag Warning Light
The airbag warning light indicates a problem with your vehicle’s airbag system. While you may not notice any difference during regular driving, in the event of a collision, the airbags may fail to deploy, greatly increasing the risk of injury. It’s crucial to get this checked and fixed as soon as possible to ensure your safety.
Washer Fluid Indicator
The low washer fluid warning light means the windshield washer reservoir is running low. While this doesn’t affect your car’s ability to drive, it can impact visibility, especially during dusty, rainy, or muddy conditions. Topping up the washer fluid is a quick fix and essential for maintaining a clear windshield.
Cruise Control Indicator
This indicator shows that the cruise control system is active and maintaining your set speed. It’s a convenience feature, especially on highways. You don’t need to take any action unless you want to adjust the speed or turn it off manually.
Fog Light Indicator
This indicator light shows that your fog lights are turned on. They help improve visibility in foggy or low-visibility conditions. Remember to switch them off once visibility improves to avoid dazzling other drivers and save battery power.
Seat Belt Reminder Light
This light tells you that a seat belt is not fastened. It usually turns off once all passengers buckle up. It’s not dangerous for the car, but very unsafe for you. Always wear your seat belt before driving.
Headlight Indicator Light
This symbol shows that your headlights are on. It’s just a reminder, especially at night or in foggy weather. If they stay on during the day, you might want to turn them off. It does not affect your driving.
Rear Windshield Defrost Light
This symbol means your rear window heater is working. It helps remove fog or frost from the rear glass, which is useful in winter or rainy weather. After some time, it will turn off automatically.
Parking Sensors Indicator
This light tells you that your parking sensors are on. It helps detect objects around your car when parking. If it blinks or shows an error, one of the sensors may need cleaning. It’s not urgent, but it should be checked soon.
Car Dashboard Symbols that Don't Require Attention
Not all car dashboard symbols mean trouble. Some lights simply inform you that a feature is turned on or working as expected. These symbols don’t require any action and are just part of your car’s normal operation. Some of the symbols are:
- High Beam Indicator Light
- Turn Signal Indicator
- Low Beam Indicator Light
- Daytime Running Lights(DRL) Indicator
- Automatic Gear Position Indicator (P, R, N, D)
- ECO Mode Indicator
- Seat Heater Indicator
High Beam Indicator Light
This light comes on when your high-beam headlights are switched on. It helps you see better at night on dark roads. It's a blue light on the dashboard. No action is needed unless you want to switch back to low beams.
Turn Signal Indicator
This flashes when you activate the left or right turn signal. It blinks green in most cars and helps other drivers know your direction. It usually turns off on its own after a turn. If it stays on, you may need to turn it off manually.
Low Beam Indicator Light
This shows that your regular headlamps are on. It's usually a green light on the dashboard. It helps light the road in normal night driving. No action is needed—just an informational light.
Daytime Running Lights(DRL) Indicator
This symbol appears when your daytime running lights are on. These lights automatically switch on when you start your car. They help other drivers see your vehicle during the day, and no action is required.
Automatic Gear Position Indicator (P, R, N, D)
This indicator shows your current gear in an automatic transmission car. It displays P for Park, R for Reverse, N for Neutral, and D for Drive. It changes as you shift gears. You don’t need to take action unless you change gears.
ECO Mode Indicator
This light shows that your car is in fuel-saving “Eco” mode. It adjusts engine performance for better mileage. Many drivers leave it on for everyday driving. No action is needed unless you want more power and turn off Eco mode.
Seat Heater Indicator
This light comes on when you switch on your heated seats. It makes your seat warm for added comfort during cold weather. You can usually adjust the heat level with buttons. No action is needed unless you're turning it off.
Why You Should Never Ignore Car Warning Lights
Car dashboard symbols and meanings are meant to warn you before anything seriously goes wrong. Disregarding them may:
- Result in costly repairs
- Putting you and your passengers in danger
- Cause breakdowns in hazardous locations
- Cut down on your car's fuel efficiency
- Result in your car failing emission tests
Learning the meaning of these car symbols will help you avoid small problems from turning into big ones. Always refer to your car's manual and never hesitate to seek professional assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
