What does the P light mean on my dashboard?

The P light typically signals the parking brake is engaged, but depending on your car it can also point to EPB (electric parking brake) faults or to features like park assist or parking sensors being active. Check your owner's manual for your exact model to be sure.

Common meanings of the P light

Below are the most common explanations you may see across a wide range of vehicles. Remember that icon design and color can vary by brand, so consult your manual for your specific car.

• Parking brake engaged: The P symbol appears when the parking brake is applied. Release the brake and verify the light goes out. If it stays on after release, there may be a fault in the braking system.


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• Park assist or parking sensors active: Some vehicles use a P icon to indicate that park assist or proximity sensors are currently engaged or operating.


• Transmission in Park indicator: In some dashboards, a P light simply confirms the transmission is in Park. This is normal and should disappear once you move out of Park.

In most cases, the P light is informational. If it’s red, flashing, or accompanied by unusual braking behavior, stop safely and arrange for service as soon as possible.

What to do if the P light appears while driving

If the P light comes on while you’re driving, follow these steps to stay safe and determine the cause.

• Slow down and pull over safely if you can do so without compromising traffic flow. Check to see if the parking brake is engaged or partially engaged.


• Check for EPB symptoms: if you suspect an EPB fault, do not rely on the parking brake to stop. Have the system inspected by a professional.


• Check other brake indicators: a low brake fluid level, overheated brakes, or worn pads can produce warning lights that accompany the P light; address these issues promptly.


• Consult the manual or contact roadside assistance if the light remains on after you’ve released the parking brake, or if you notice reduced braking performance.

When in doubt, avoid driving long distances with braking indicators illuminated. A quick diagnostic at a service center or dealership can prevent brake failure or other safety hazards.

Model-specific notes

Iconography and exact meanings vary by brand and model. The same P symbol may indicate different systems (parking brake, EPB fault, or Park Assist) depending on your car. Always verify with your owner’s manual or a dealer for your particular vehicle.

Brand-specific quick guidance

General guidance: treat the P light as a brake-related warning or feature indicator. If in doubt, seek professional inspection rather than attempting to guess the meaning based on appearance alone.

Summary

The P light on dashboards most often signals that the parking brake is engaged. It can also indicate an EPB fault, or that park assist/parking sensors are active, or simply confirm the transmission is in Park. If the light is red, flashing, or accompanied by braking changes or warning chimes, stop safely and have the vehicle checked. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the precise meaning and recommended action for your model.

What does the p light symbol mean?

A "P" warning light on your car's dashboard typically relates to the parking brake, but can also signify issues with the parking assist system or electric shift control. The specific meaning depends on the vehicle and the exact symbol, so it is important to check your car's manual. Common meanings include the parking brake being engaged, a fault in the electric parking brake system, or a problem with the automatic parking assist features.
 
Potential meanings of a "P" warning light

• Parking brake is on: A simple "P" light, especially with an exclamation point or parentheses, often means the parking brake is engaged or not fully released. Releasing the brake should turn the light off. 
• Electric parking brake fault: A "P" inside a circle with a wrench is a common symbol for an issue with the electric parking brake system and requires service. If the light flashes, it may indicate the system is working, but if it remains on, it needs attention. 
• Parking assist system disabled: A "P" symbol with curved lines around it is typically the button to turn off the parking assist sensors. If the light is on unexpectedly, it could mean the system is malfunctioning, and you should check for dirt on the sensors or have the system checked. 
• Electric shift control system: In some vehicles, like certain Nissan models, a "P" light can indicate a problem with the electronic shift control, which can cause shifting issues and may need to be checked by a mechanic. 
• Automatic transmission: A blinking "P" with a chime could be a reminder that the car is not in park when you are trying to turn it off, especially in a manual transmission vehicle. 

What to do

1. Check your owner's manual: This is the most important first step, as the symbol's meaning varies by manufacturer and model. 
2. Check the parking brake: Make sure the parking brake is fully released. 
3. Check for other symbols: Look for other warning lights, such as the brake warning light (often a circle with "P" and an exclamation point) or a check engine light, which can provide more context. 
4. Inspect sensors: If the light relates to parking assist, check the sensors for dirt or debris. 
5. Visit a mechanic: If the light remains on after checking the basics, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose the specific problem. 

What does p mean on a car dashboard?

A "P" on a dashboard most often indicates that the parking brake is engaged and the symbol is a circled "P" with an exclamation point, say Burns Chevrolet, Neil Huffman Honda, and Athens BMW. If the light remains on after releasing the brake, it could mean a more serious issue, such as a problem with the braking system or low brake fluid. A different "P" symbol may indicate a parking sensor or an automatic parking system.
 
Parking brake is engaged 

• What it means: Your parking brake, or emergency brake, is currently on. 
• What to do: Release the parking brake before you start driving. The light should turn off. 

Parking brake light remains on or flashes 

• What it means: The light staying on or flashing after you've released the brake suggests a problem with the parking brake itself, or another issue in the braking system. This could be caused by: 
  • The parking brake not being fully disengaged. 
  • Low brake fluid levels. 
  • A problem with the brake system, such as worn brake pads or a failing master cylinder. 
• What to do:
  • First, try fully engaging and then releasing the parking brake. 
  • Check the brake fluid level if you can safely do so. If it's low, add more. If the light goes off, the low fluid was the problem. If it stays on, there may be a leak. 
  • If the light does not go away, it is a safety concern. Schedule service with a mechanic as soon as possible. 

Other "P" symbols

• Parking sensor button: A simple "P" with radiating lines or arrows usually turns the parking assist sensors on or off.
• Automatic parking assist: Some cars, particularly those with automatic parking systems, may show a blue "P" with an arrow to indicate the feature is active and looking for a parking spot. 

How to fix PS light on dashboard?

Below are the key steps to help you fix power steering warning light:

1. Step 1: Check the Power Steering Fluid Level (Hydraulic Systems)
2. Step 2: Inspect for Leaks.
3. Step 3: Check the Power Steering Belt (Hydraulic Systems)
4. Step 4: Test the Electrical Connections (Electric Power Steering Systems)
5. Step 5: Reset the System.

What does the p engine light mean?

powertrain
P Codes - P stands for powertrain, meaning the issue is related to engine functions, transmission, or drivetrain. C Codes– C codes cover chassis functions such as steering, suspension, and brakes.