What do 15 symbols on your cars dashboard mean?
Your car's dashboard is equipped with various symbols that provide crucial information about your vehicle's status. Understanding these symbols can help you identify potential issues before they become serious problems. In this article, we will explore 15 common dashboard symbols, what they mean, and why they are important for your vehicle's maintenance.
1. Check Engine Light
The check engine light is one of the most recognized symbols. It indicates that your vehicle's engine management system has detected a problem. This could range from a loose gas cap to a more serious engine issue.
2. Oil Pressure Warning
This symbol alerts you to low oil pressure, which can lead to engine damage. If this light comes on, check your oil level immediately and consider visiting a mechanic.
3. Battery Warning
The battery warning light indicates an issue with your vehicle's electrical system, such as a failing battery or alternator. If this light appears, it's essential to have your battery checked.
4. Brake Warning
This symbol can indicate several issues, including low brake fluid or a problem with the braking system. If this light is illuminated, you should have your brakes inspected as soon as possible.
5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The TPMS light warns you when one or more of your tires are under-inflated. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency.
6. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning
The ABS warning light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. If this light is on, your vehicle may not be able to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking.
7. Temperature Warning
This symbol alerts you to an overheating engine. If this light comes on, stop your vehicle and allow the engine to cool down to prevent severe damage.
8. Airbag Warning
The airbag warning light indicates a malfunction in the airbag system. If this light is illuminated, your airbags may not deploy in the event of an accident.
9. Seatbelt Reminder
This symbol reminds you to fasten your seatbelt. It's a crucial safety feature that should never be ignored.
10. Fuel Warning
The fuel warning light indicates that your fuel level is low. It's a good practice to refuel before the tank is completely empty to avoid running out of gas.
11. Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
This symbol warns you that the engine coolant temperature is too high. If this light comes on, check your coolant level and look for leaks.
12. Service Vehicle Soon
This light indicates that your vehicle is due for maintenance. Regular servicing is essential for the longevity and performance of your car.
13. Traction Control Light
The traction control light indicates that the system is active, helping to prevent wheel spin during slippery conditions. If this light is flashing, it means the system is working to maintain traction.
14. Stability Control Light
This symbol indicates that the stability control system is active. If it remains on, there may be an issue with the system that needs to be addressed.
15. Door Ajar Warning
This light alerts you that one or more doors are not fully closed. It's important to ensure all doors are secure before driving.
Conclusion
Understanding these dashboard symbols is vital for maintaining your vehicle's health and ensuring your safety on the road. If you ever see a warning light that you're unsure about, don't hesitate to consult your owner's manual or visit a trusted auto service provider like Kevin's Autos for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are all the gauges on a dashboard?
The most common gauges that you can notice are speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, and temperature gauge. Sometimes, a voltmeter to show the charge of the car and an odometer to display the mileage is also present on the dashboard.
What do 18 symbols on your car dashboard mean?
18 Common Warning Lights on Your Car's Dashboard
- Oil Pressure Warning Light.
- Tire Pressure Warning Light.
- Engine Temperature Warning Light.
- Traction Control Alert Light.
- Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light.
- Traction Control Malfunction Light.
- Engine Warning Light (Check Engine Light)
- Battery Alert Light.
Is it safe to drive with exclamation mark?
The dashboard light looks like an exclamation point inside of a horseshoe and, if illuminated, should be addressed immediately. When the TPMS light goes on, it should not be ignored. Driving on underinflated tires can lead to an accident or cause damage to your vehicle.
What do the numbers on the dashboard mean?
The speedometer displays wheel speed. Meanwhile, the fuel gauge displays the level of fuel in the tank. The temperature gauge displays the temperature of the engine coolant. It will read cold, hot, or normal as pictured below. The tachometer displays engine RPM which shows how fast the engine is turning.
What is displayed on a car dashboard?
Typical dashboard components include the speedometer, engine coolant, temperature gauge, indicators, and other car warning lights and symbols. However, the car dashboard refers to virtually all the interior components in the car's front, extending to the steering.
What does this (!) Mean in a car?
Battery and brake warning lights
Learn more about what to do if your car won't start. Finally, if you see an exclamation mark inside a set of parentheses (or a similar symbol), it indicates a problem with your brakes.
What are Amber warning signs on dashboard?
Amber warning lights on dashboard
- Check engine light. The cause: A sensor has detected a problem with your engine.
- Tyre pressure warning light. The cause: The tyre-pressure monitoring system has detected a drop in pressure.
- Diesel glow plug indicator light.
- ABS warning light.
- Limited electric power indicator light.
What is the most serious warning light?
#1: Check Engine Light
The check engine light is something you shouldn't ignore because there are several possible reasons why this light could appear. Most common reasons include issues with the vehicle's emission system, engine components, or fuel compartment.
What do the dash symbol lights mean?
There are 3 different categories of warning lights; red, amber and green: Red warning lights mean you should stop the car as soon as it's safe. Yellow warning lights mean that action is required. Green warning lights are for information only.
What is the most serious warning light on a car?
#1: Check Engine Light
The check engine light is something you shouldn't ignore because there are several possible reasons why this light could appear. Most common reasons include issues with the vehicle's emission system, engine components, or fuel compartment.
