What do 18 symbols on your car dashboard mean?
Your car's dashboard is like a communication hub, providing vital information about the health and status of your vehicle. However, the array of symbols that light up can sometimes feel like a foreign language. At Kevin's Autos, we believe that understanding these symbols is crucial for safe and efficient driving. In this article, we’ll break down 18 common dashboard symbols and what they mean.
1. Check Engine Light
This symbol, often shaped like an engine, indicates an issue with your car's engine or emissions system. It could range from a loose gas cap to a more serious engine problem.
2. Oil Pressure Warning
When this light appears, it means your engine oil pressure is low. Driving with low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage, so check your oil levels immediately.
3. Battery Warning
This symbol indicates a problem with your car's charging system. It could be a failing alternator, a dead battery, or loose wiring.
4. Brake Warning
If this light is on, it could mean your parking brake is engaged, or there’s an issue with your braking system, such as low brake fluid.
5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
This symbol warns you that one or more of your tires may be underinflated. Proper tire pressure is essential for safety and fuel efficiency.
6. Coolant Temperature Warning
This light indicates that your engine is overheating. Pull over immediately and let the engine cool down before checking the coolant levels.
7. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Warning
If this light comes on, there’s an issue with your anti-lock braking system. While your brakes will still work, the ABS feature may not function properly.
8. Airbag Warning
This symbol indicates a problem with your car’s airbag system. It’s important to address this issue promptly to ensure your safety in case of an accident.
9. Seatbelt Reminder
This light reminds you to buckle up. It’s a simple yet crucial step for your safety.
10. Door Ajar Warning
This symbol lights up when one or more doors are not fully closed. Double-check all doors before driving.
11. Traction Control Light
This light activates when your car’s traction control system is in use, helping you maintain control on slippery roads.
12. Stability Control Warning
If this light stays on, it means there’s an issue with your car’s stability control system, which helps prevent skidding.
13. Low Fuel Warning
This symbol is a friendly reminder that it’s time to refuel your car before you run out of gas.
14. Engine Start System Warning
This light indicates a problem with your car’s ignition or start system. It’s often seen in vehicles with push-button start systems.
15. Power Steering Warning
If this light comes on, there’s an issue with your power steering system, which could make steering more difficult.
16. Fog Light Indicator
This symbol lets you know that your fog lights are on, improving visibility in foggy conditions.
17. High Beam Indicator
This light indicates that your high beams are on. Remember to switch to low beams when approaching other vehicles.
18. Cruise Control Indicator
This symbol shows that your cruise control system is active, allowing you to maintain a steady speed without using the accelerator.
Conclusion
Understanding these dashboard symbols can help you address potential issues before they become serious problems. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to assist with all your car maintenance and repair needs. If you’re ever unsure about a warning light, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Safe driving!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the key is sinking in a river mean?
“The Key is Sinking in a River”.. means your engine is TOO HOT. Stop your car. Right now. Have it towed into the shop. It's a biggie, especially if your thermostat is also giving you fits (climbing, or spiking).
What are 5 lights that might light up on your dashboard to tell you something needs attention or repair in your car?
Common Dashboard Warning Lights and What They Mean
- Check Engine. This check engine warning light usually looks like an orange engine, and it tells you that something is wrong with the car's motor or emissions system.
- Coolant Temperature.
- Transmission Temperature.
- Oil Pressure.
- Tire Pressure.
- Brake System.
What are emergency warning lights?
Emergency vehicle lighting refers to any of several visual warning devices, which may be known as lightbars or beacons, fitted to a vehicle and used when the driver wishes to convey to other road users the urgency of their journey, to provide additional warning of a hazard when stationary, or in the case of law ...
What is the symbol on my dashboard?
The engine stop-start light is typically an "A" surrounded by a circular arrow, and it can indicate a few different things. It may illuminate in a green or blue color to show that the system is active, or in an amber color to show that the system has been disabled.
What does a transmission warning light look like?
You might see a gear symbol with an exclamation mark or a thermometer, signaling potential transmission issues. Each symbol or message on your dashboard is a call for your attention—don't overlook them! Your owner's manual is your go-to resource; it details what each symbol means specifically for your car.
What does the overheating symbol look like?
This dash warning light looks kind of like a boat sitting on water. It actually represents a thermometer-which means your car is getting too hot. Possible causes could include a coolant leak, a bad water pump, bad thermostat or more. Pull over as soon as possible if you see this, as it can be very dangerous.
What are the codes in car?
The DTC is a series of numbers and letters that locates the source and nature of the problem. The OBD-II codes, on the other hand, is a term that includes the entirety of the DTC system (body codes, chassis codes, powertrain codes, and network codes).
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 are the numbers on my car dashboard?
The most common dashboard configurations today include a speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge. 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.
What is the symbol for overheating engine?
Some cars may warn of an engine over-temperature condition by displaying a string of text in the driver's information center. Others will turn on an illuminated symbol depicting a thermometer floating in coolant. Regardless of the warning's appearance, the message is always the same: Your car's engine is overheating.
