Let’s discuss the various dashboard lights, their purposes, and the required measures that need to be taken. The electronic systems in today’s cars rely on a series of sensors connected to warning lights and symbols on the dashboard. Dashboard warning lights are displayed in different colors, which usually denote the seriousness of the problem. Yellow and orange warning lights are typically less urgent, while red warning lights indicate more serious issues that need immediate attention.

Types of Dashboard Warning Lights

Red Warning Lights: These usually indicate a severe problem with your car. If a red warning light appears, you should act quickly to resolve the issue.
Orange or Yellow Warning Lights: These indicate that the engine management system (the computer running the engine) has detected a malfunction. While you can continue to drive, it is advisable to visit your local service center as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair.
Green or Blue Lights: These lights inform you that a system is on and operating correctly.

1. Engine Temperature Warning Light

a red and black sign with a temperature gauge

This light indicates that the engine is overheating. The engine produces a lot of heat and must be cooled continuously to avoid damage. This is typically done by circulating coolant. The water pump circulates the coolant through the engine passages to the radiator, where it is cooled and returned to the engine. If the engine temperature warning light illuminates, there may be a problem in the cooling system, such as a leak in the radiator, damaged hoses or pipes, a damaged thermostat valve, a faulty water pump, or a faulty cooling fan. The temperature sensor detects the overheating and sends signals to the ECU, illuminating the warning light. These following are some tips to fix Engine Temperature Warning light otherwise consult with your car mechanic.

Tips to Prevent Overheating:

Regularly check your vehicle’s coolant levels.
Store an extra bottle of new antifreeze and a gallon of water in your trunk.
Avoid overusing the car’s air conditioning on extremely hot days.
Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual for coolant service flushes.

2. Battery Charge Warning Light

This light indicates that the battery is no longer being charged by the alternator and is running only on its own charge, which will eventually run out, stopping the car. This issue may be due to a faulty alternator, damaged drive belt, damaged connecting wires or relays, or a faulty battery. sometimes battery light on but car runs fine.

Immediate Actions:

Check and clean any rust and tighten any loose battery cables.
If the light remains on, it could indicate a mechanical issue with the alternator or voltage regulator, or a wiring problem.
The problem can be resolved by checking wiring connections, servicing alternator parts, or replacing the battery.

3. Oil Pressure Warning Light

This light signifies that oil is not circulating properly through the engine. Insufficient oil pressure can cause the engine to wear prematurely or seize up. Common reasons include low oil levels, a worn oil pump, or worn internal components.

Actions to Take:

This light signals a loss of oil pressure, meaning lubrication is low or lost entirely. Pull over safely and check the oil level and change the oil at the manufacturer’s specified intervals. If the oil level is correct, the issue might be a faulty oil pump, clogged oil filter, internal oil leak, bad oil pressure sensor, or faulty wiring. sometimes oil light comes on but oil is full it may lead to problem.

4. Brake Warning Light

This indicates that the handbrake or parking brake is engaged. If the light stays on after disengaging the handbrake, it means the hydraulic pressure has been lost in one side of the brake system or the fluid level in the master cylinder is dangerously low due to a leak. If the light comes on while driving, safely pull over and have your vehicle towed to a mechanic, as brakes are crucial for safety.

5. Transmission Temperature Warning Light

This light shows that the transmission fluid temperature has exceeded normal limits. Overheating can lead to transmission failure, which is costly to repair. The ideal operating temperature of transmission fluid is 175 degrees. Overheating occurs above 200 degrees, with the failure rate doubling for every 20-degree increase. Modern vehicles indicate the severity of the problem with different colors: yellow for less urgent issues and red for critical ones.

6. Tire Pressure Warning Light

This light indicates that the pressure is low in one of your tires. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) alerts you when tire pressure is too low, creating unsafe driving conditions. The warning light is usually yellow or amber and resembles a cross-section of a tire with an exclamation point or the letters “TPMS”. Common reasons for this light to turn on include a puncture, faulty tire pressure sensor, or seasonal temperature changes causing gradual pressure loss.

Actions to Take:

If the light is on, check the pressure of all tires with a gauge.
Determine the cause of pressure loss and add air or service the tires as appropriate.

7. Security Alert

The security light indicates the car’s anti-theft system status. It has two primary functions:

It flashes when the ignition is off to show that the security system is active.
If it stays on while the engine is running and the car can’t start, there is a problem with the anti-theft system.

Common Causes:

Battery failure causing the computer to lose track of your key.
Smart key malfunction.
Locking or unlocking issues.
The light typically indicates the car does not recognize the key being used.

8. Side Airbag Light

This light indicates a fault with the side airbags, which are usually located in the seat or door panel. These airbags reduce injury risk to the pelvic and lower abdomen regions.

This light indicates a problem with the airbag system, which includes the impact sensor, airbag inflator, airbag module, and clock spring. If any component of this system fails, the airbag may not function properly. The mechanic should check for faulty sensors, improper wiring connections, or issues with the airbag module, inflator, or clock spring.

Actions to Take:

If the light shows a problem, one or more airbags may not inflate during a collision.
Possible causes include previous airbag deployment not being properly reset or issues with the vehicle’s computer system.

9. Reduced Power Warning

This light indicates that the engine computer has limited engine power output to avoid damaging the engine. It is often triggered by a system failure, such as an issue with the electronic throttle actuator control system or a faulty electronic fan clutch.
Driving with Reduced Power:
- You can drive, but the vehicle’s performance will be reduced.
- It’s best to seek repairs promptly to restore normal functionality.

10. Seat Belt Indicator

This symbol appears when the seat belt reminder sensor detects that a seat belt is not securely fastened. It ensures the passenger safety system can deploy airbags optimally.

Actions to Take:

Buckle your seat belt if the light is on.
If the light flashes when buckled, the sensor or buckle housing may be damaged and need replacement.

11. Press Clutch or Brake Pedal Light

In Volkswagen and Audi vehicles, this light serves as a reminder to press the clutch or brake pedal depending on the transmission type.

Manual Transmissions: Press the clutch pedal before starting the engine.
Automatic Transmissions: Press the brake pedal to shift out of park mode.

12. Powertrain Fault Light

This light indicates an issue with the vehicle’s powertrain or four-wheel-drive system. Commonly found in Ford vehicles, it looks like a wrench symbol.

Actions to Take:

Address powertrain issues promptly to prevent overheating and further damage.
If the vehicle enters safe mode, drive only as necessary to reach a safe location.

13. Power Steering Warning Light

This light illuminates when a problem is detected with the power steering system, which can be either hydraulic or electronic. Hydraulic steering uses hydraulic oil to turn the steering, while electronic steering uses an electric motor. Issues such as leaks in the hydraulic pump, connecting pipes, steering box, or damage to sensors or the electric motor can cause the power steering to stop working.

Actions to Take:

Investigate and fix the issue as soon as possible.
Without power steering, the vehicle will be harder to maneuver, requiring extra caution while driving.

14. Steering Wheel Lock

This light means the steering wheel is locked and cannot be moved when the ignition is off.
Actions to Take:
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to release the lock.

15. Parking Brake Light

This light indicates that the parking brake is engaged.

Actions to Take:

Disengage the parking brake before driving.

16. Traction Control Light

This light indicates that the vehicle’s traction control system is either activated or deactivated.

Actions to Take:

If the light is on while driving, take caution as the traction control system may be deactivated or faulty.

17. Check Engine Warning Light

If Check Engine warning light illuminates, there is a problem with the engine management system or engine parts. The engine management system includes various sensors, such as loose gas cap, bad oxygen sensor, the cam position sensor, crank position sensor, and mass air pressure sensor. These sensors send signals to the engine control unit (ECU). If these sensors fail or their wiring connectivity is compromised, the ECU cannot receive signals, affecting engine performance and potentially preventing the engine from starting.

Actions to Take:

There are many mechanical parts in an engine, and some sensors monitor these parts. If any mechanical failures occur, the sensors detect the problem and send signals to the ECU, illuminating the check engine light to notify the driver. The driver should seek the help of a mechanic to diagnose the problem with a scan tool. In some cases, the check engine light may glow red, indicating that the driver should immediately stop the vehicle and address the issue before restarting to prevent further damage.

18. Service Vehicle Soon

The service engine soon light indicates a fault in the vehicle chassis systems.

Actions to Take:

Have the vehicle checked by a mechanic to avoid further damage.

19. Overdrive Light

This light indicates that the vehicle’s overdrive system is turned off.

Actions to Take:

Enable the overdrive feature for better performance and fuel efficiency by pressing the overdrive selector on the gear shifter.

Understanding these safety symbols helps maintain your vehicle’s safety and functionality, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience.

20. Oil Change Reminder

The oil change reminder light indicates that the oil pressure in your vehicle’s engine has dropped, and you need to take immediate action. Continuing to drive with this light on can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s engine. If the light flashes while you are driving, it means the oil pressure in the engine has dropped. An engine requires a constant supply of oil, especially when moving, to ensure its parts are properly lubricated.

For most vehicles, a standard oil change is recommended every three months or every 3,000 miles. However, with modern lubricants, many engines today have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If your car’s engine requires full synthetic motor oil, it might go as far as 15,000 miles between services.

Resetting the Oil Change Light:

After changing the oil, the oil change light won’t turn off on its own. You need to reset it. If you don’t reset the warning light, your vehicle won’t be able to alert you when the next oil change is needed.

21. Master Warning Light

The master warning light notifies you of a problem in one or more of the vehicle’s advanced systems. It can flash in two colors, red and yellow. If the warning symbol shows an exclamation point in a yellow triangle, it indicates a fault in the vehicle stability control system. You can drive with caution, but without the benefit of the advanced electronic control system. If the light is red, there will likely be text displayed on the instrument panel, indicating issues like low oil pressure or reminders such as a door being ajar or the need to change the oil.

Potential Reasons for the Master Warning Light:

Low tire pressure
Low fuel
Low washer fluid
Low coolant
Low battery voltage
A door is ajar
The parking brake is engaged
Headlights left on
Loose or missing fuel cap

22. Glow Plug Warning Light

Glow Plug Warning Light: Diesel engines have glow plugs that heat the combustion chamber to assist with starting the engine when it’s cold. The glow plug light, a squiggle with two loops, illuminates to show that the glow plugs are warming up. If the light blinks or remains on, it indicates a problem with the glow plugs or electrical connections, requiring a mechanic’s inspection.

23. Icy Road Warning Light

This light turns on when the outside air temperature reaches around 35 degrees Fahrenheit, warning you of possible ice formation. Initially, it will be amber, turning red as temperatures drop further, indicating a real possibility of ice.

24. Gas or Fuel Cap Light

This light turns on if the gas cap is not tightened correctly or if there is a detected leak in the system, typically from a loose gas cap. If this light comes on, pull over safely and re-secure the cap. If the light doesn’t turn off, have a certified technician investigate the issue.

25. ESP Fault or Traction Control Malfunction

This light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s traction control system. ESP stands for Electronic Stability Program, which improves car stability on hard surfaces. If the warning light flashes, the ESP traction control is working. If the light stays on, an important electronic driving aid no longer functions.

26. Distance Warning Light

This light indicates that the computer has detected that the vehicle in front is too close or is being approached too quickly. It may also detect large objects in the road.

27. Clogged Air Filter

This light indicates reduced airflow to the engine. The air filter removes dirt and debris from the outside air before it enters the engine cylinders. A clean air filter can improve gas mileage, acceleration, and engine life while lowering emissions. If this light comes on, replace or inspect the air filter.

28. Catalytic Converter Warning

This light indicates that the catalytic converter is overheating or not operating as intended. The warning symbol looks like flames or wavy lines rising from a pipe. The catalytic converter converts toxic gases and pollutants into less harmful pollutants. Over time, the metal can deteriorate, causing overheating issues due to restricted airflow.

29. Immobilizer Warning Light

This vehicle security system stores unique codes for the vehicle and its key fob. It looks yellow or Red Car with key symbol. If the wrong key fob is used or the registered security code fails, the car may not start, and this warning light illuminates.

30. Brake Fluid Light

This light indicates that the brake fluid level is low. Stop when it’s safe, consult your owner’s manual to locate the brake fluid reservoir, and top it up with the correct brake fluid.

31. Brake Pad Warning Light

This light indicates that your brake pads are worn and need to be checked. Driving with worn brake pads is dangerous and can cause further damage to the braking system.

32. Brake Lights Warning

This indicator light means an exterior brake light bulb is defective. Check all exterior brake light bulbs.

33. Automatic Gearbox Warning Light

This light indicates an issue with the transmission, possibly related to fluid temperature, fluid level, or pressure. Do not continue to drive with this light on. Diagnose and repair the problem immediately to prevent further damage.

34. ABS Warning Light

This light indicates a problem with the ABS system, which ensures that the wheels do not lock up under hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain control. Causes of the warning light include leaks in the brake master cylinder, ABS pump and valves unit, brake caliper, or issues with the wheel speed sensor. Worn-out disc rotors and brake pads can also cause the light to turn on. Finding and rectifying the problem will restore normal brake function. It could indicate an issue with the wheel speed sensors or wiring.

35. All-Wheel Drive Light

This light indicates that the car has activated its all-wheel-drive system. If the service four-wheel-drive light is on, there may be an issue with the system.

36. Four-Wheel Drive Lock

This light means that the vehicle’s four-wheel-drive lock mode is activated.

37. Trailer Tow Hitch Warning

This light could indicate that the tow hitch is unlocked or there’s an issue with the lighting system.

Actions to Take:

Check the tow hitch and lighting system for any issues.

38. Airbag Indicator

This light turns on when the front airbag is switched off or there is a fault in the airbag or seat belt system. It indicates that one or more airbags may not inflate in the event of a collision.

39. Air Suspension Warning Light

This light means there is a problem with the air suspension system, likely due to a leak or inflation issue.

Light Symbols:-

Let’s explore various light symbols and their meanings:

40.Low Beam Indicator Light

This light means that the vehicle’s dipped beam headlights are on.

41. Lamp Out or Exterior Light Fault

This indicator light shows that one or more headlamp bulbs or other exterior bulbs have burned out or are defective. An exclamation point might be included in this symbol, which always indicates a problem, even if the symbol is green.

43. High Beam Light Indicator

This light indicates that your car’s high beam headlights are on or that the high beam flash function is being used.

44. Auto High Beam Indicator Light

This light means that the auto high beam system has switched on the high beam headlights. The system will automatically turn on the high beams when conditions are clear and will turn them off when it detects another vehicle ahead or coming toward you.

45. Headlight Range Control Light

This light turns on if an issue is detected with the headlight range control system. The range control will be disabled temporarily until the problem is resolved.

46. Front Fog Lights

This indicator light means that the front fog lights are turned on.

47. Adaptive Light System

This light illuminates when adaptive headlights are turned on. Unlike traditional headlights, which are fixed and only illuminate directly in front of the vehicle, adaptive headlights use electronic sensors to detect your steering angle and swivel based on the direction your car is heading. Water or condensation within the headlight is the most common cause of adaptive headlight failure.

48. Side Indicator

This light will turn on when the normal headlights are in use. Side lights, which are not as bright as headlights, are used by drivers to make themselves visible to traffic during times when it’s not dark enough for the main lights.

49. Rear Fog Lights Switched On

This means that the rear fog lights are on. The purpose of the rear fog lamp is to reveal the position of your vehicle when driving in fog, snow, or other conditions that limit visibility. Normal tail lights are fairly dim and are not as likely to be seen in foggy weather.

50. Rain and Light Sensor Indicator Light

This light means there is an issue with the sensor system, and the wipers and lights will not function automatically. These sensors can detect rain on the windshield and analyze the overall brightness outside. The main function of these light sensors is to control the automatic headlights.

Common Symbols

Let’s explore some common vehicle symbols and their meanings:

51. Windshield Defrost and Rear Window Defrost

These indicator lights mean that the defrost function is in operation. When illuminated, it indicates that the defroster is turned on. The symbol for the front defrost is a curved window, while the rear defrost is represented by a rectangular window.

52. Washer Fluid Reminder

This light alerts the driver that the windshield washer fluid is low. Once the reservoir is filled with fluid, the light should go out immediately. If the reservoir is full and the light remains on, a faulty fluid level sensor might be the issue, and it should be checked and replaced if necessary.

53. Low Fuel Level

If your car is low on fuel, an icon resembling a fuel pump with a hose will appear. It glows when the system detects insufficient fuel. If you see a low fuel warning light, refuel immediately.

54. Key Not in Vehicle

This warning light tells you when the key isn’t detected in your car, preventing you from driving off without it. Cars equipped with keyless ignition have a warning light on the dash to indicate if the correct key fob hasn’t been detected. Modern cars can sense when the driver is approaching with the key, unlocking the doors automatically. Additionally, remote keyless ignition allows you to start the car without inserting the key, using a coded radio signal.

55. Hood or Bonnet Open

This symbol indicates that the car’s hood is not closed correctly. Pull over safely and check that the hood is closed all the way. Once properly closed, the light should turn off. If the light remains on, there may be an issue with the hood’s locking mechanism.

56. Hazard Lights On

This light illuminates when the hazard lights are activated. Hazard warning lights are a pair of intermittent flashing indicator lights that flash in unison to warn other drivers that the vehicle is a temporary obstruction. Different countries have different uses for hazard lights, but they are commonly used to indicate that the vehicle is stationary due to a breakdown, accident, or other obstruction.

57. Door Ajar

This light indicates that one or more of your doors is open or not closed securely.

58. Direction Signal Indicators

These lights signal when your car is turning left or right. Always use your turn signals when driving to inform everyone around you of your intended actions, preventing surprises when you merge or turn. Ensure your turn signals are turned off if the steering wheel does not automatically do it for you.

Advanced Feature Symbols

Let’s take a look at some advanced feature symbols commonly found in modern vehicles:

59. Recirculated Cabin Air

This indicator light means that the vehicle’s ventilation system is recirculating air from within the vehicle. Using this mode helps the car cool down faster, as it recycles the already cooled air instead of bringing in warmer air from outside, which would make the air conditioner work harder.

60. Rear Spoiler Warning

The rear spoiler warning light indicates a fault with the spoiler system.

61. Parking with Park Assist Pilot

If the parking assist light is illuminated in green, it means that the system is active and assessing the surroundings. For example, Volkswagen cars with Park Assist can steer automatically when parking. The driver only needs to operate the accelerator and brakes. To activate Park Assist, you may need to press a button, or it might turn on automatically at low speeds or when in reverse.

62. Lane Assist

When this light is on, the lane assist system is active. It helps detect lane markers on the road with a front windshield camera and assists in steering to keep the vehicle within its lane. If the vehicle starts to stray, the system alerts the driver with visual and audible warnings and applies slight counter-steering torque. Note that this is a convenience function and not a substitute for attentive driving.

63. Lane Departure Warning

This warning light appears if the vehicle changes lanes or moves out of its lane without signaling. The system detects lane markers and alerts the driver with a flashing indicator and beeps when a tire touches a lane marker, helping to prevent crashes due to unintentional lane departures.

64. Key Fob Battery Low

This indicator light informs you that the key fob battery needs to be replaced. Typically, the battery lasts between three to six months. When the battery power declines, the keyless remote battery low light appears on the dashboard.

65. Ignition Switch Warning

This light means there’s an issue with the ignition system or the car key. It could indicate a mechanical problem with the ignition switch, preventing the key from turning.

66. Hill Descent Control

This symbol lights up when the hill descent control system is activated, helping maintain a specific speed while driving downhill. If the light is steady, the system is engaged and controlling speed. If it blinks, the system is on but not engaged.

67. Forward Collision Warning

This safety system detects vehicles, obstacles, or pedestrians ahead and alerts the driver when the vehicle is too close. It uses a radar sensor located behind the lower grille below the front bumper.

68. Eco Driving Indicator

An eco indicator light helps the driver to drive more fuel-efficiently by monitoring acceleration. If you accelerate too hard, the light disappears. When the light is on, it indicates that the engine is operating close to its maximum fuel efficiency.

69. Cruise Control

This light appears when the cruise control system is on. Typically, the cruise control light will be orange when the system is on but a speed hasn’t been set, and it turns green once a speed is chosen.

70. Adaptive Cruise Control

Like regular cruise control, but it also maintains a set distance from vehicles ahead. If the gap closes, it will apply the brakes to slow the vehicle down and warn the driver with a sound or flashing light.

71. Convertible Roof Warning Light

This light is lit while the roof is opening or closing. If the light remains on, it indicates that the roof is not fully opened or closed, or there is a fault in the system.

72. Brake Hold Indicator Light

Auto brake hold is an advanced system that automatically applies and releases the parking brake in situations like stop-and-go traffic. The indicator is green when the system is activated.

73. Blind Spot Indicator Light

This system detects vehicles in your blind spots and illuminates a yellow or red indicator light. Some systems also provide a warning sound. The light typically appears in the outside rearview mirrors or window frames.

74. EPC Light

The EPC (Electronic Power Control) warning light on the dashboard of Volkswagen cars indicates a problem with the electronic power control system. This system manages the engine’s throttle and various other electronic functions. When the EPC light comes on, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the vehicle. While it is possible to drive the car with the EPC light on, it is recommended to exercise caution and avoid pushing the engine too hard. It’s best to have the vehicle inspected and repaired by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

75. Auto Windscreen Wiping

This light indicates that the windscreen wipers are in automatic mode.

76. Winter Mode

This light, marked with a snowflake symbol, indicates that winter mode is on. It helps the vehicle handle better in cold weather and icy conditions.

77. Start-Stop Warning Light

This system stops the engine when the car is stationary, like at a traffic light, and restarts it when the driver presses the gas pedal. The light indicates that the system is active.