What is the car light on dash?
The dashboard warning light is a symbol on the instrument cluster that signals a vehicle status or fault. The exact icon tells you which system is involved and how urgently you should act. In short, it’s a signal you should interpret and respond to to stay safe and keep the car running smoothly.
This article explains the meaning behind the most common dash lights, how to read them, and what steps to take when they appear. It covers the main symbol categories, urgency levels, and practical actions you can take before consulting a mechanic.
Common dash warning lights
Below are the lights you’re most likely to encounter, what they typically mean, and why they matter. Keep in mind that symbols vary by make and model, so consult your owner’s manual for exact definitions.
- Check Engine / Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) — usually amber. Signals an engine or emissions issue. A diagnostic scan is often needed; if the light is flashing, pull over safely and stop driving if you can, as this can indicate a misfire or severe issue.
- Oil Pressure Warning — red or amber. Indicates oil pressure is too low. Stop the engine as soon as safely possible to avoid engine damage; check oil level after cooling and seek service.
- Battery / Charging System — red or amber. Suggests a charging system or alternator problem. The car may run briefly on battery power, but you’ll risk stalling; seek service promptly.
- Coolant Temperature Warning — red or blue thermometer icon. Blue typically means the engine is cold; red indicates overheating. If red, pull over safely and shut off the engine to prevent damage; check coolant level and system leaking afterwards.
- Brake System Warning — red. Could mean the parking brake is engaged or there is a hydraulic brake fault or low brake fluid. If it remains on while driving, slow down, avoid sharp braking, and have the system inspected immediately.
- ABS / Traction Control — amber. Signals an issue with anti-lock brakes or stability control. You may still drive, but braking performance or handling could be reduced; have it checked soon.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) — amber. One or more tires is underinflated. Check and adjust tire pressures to the recommended level; drive cautiously if the light remains on after inflation.
- Airbag / SRS — red or amber. Indicates a fault in the airbag or pretensioner system. Driving is generally possible, but airbags may not deploy correctly in a crash; have the system inspected promptly.
- Maintenance / Service Due — yellow wrench or similar icon. Indicates scheduled maintenance is due or a service interval is approaching. Plan service to avoid potential issues.
In summary, red dashboard lights typically call for urgent action, amber lights signal caution or a potential issue, and blue/green lights often indicate a system that is on or warming up. Always check your manual for the precise meaning of each symbol on your vehicle.
What to do when a dash light appears
Guidance below helps you gauge urgency and decide on the next steps. Note that actions may vary by car model and driving conditions; when in doubt, err on the side of caution or contact roadside assistance.
- Identify the symbol and its color. Different icons indicate different systems, and red indicates higher risk than amber.
- Assess urgency: red lights usually require immediate attention; amber lights warrant prompt inspection but may not require stopping right away; blue/green often indicate a system is on or warming up.
- For red lights: find a safe place to stop, turn off the engine if necessary, and seek assistance or call for help. Do not ignore persistent red warnings.
- For amber lights: reduce driving intensity if possible, and schedule a service appointment. If the light changes or the vehicle behaves oddly (noises, reduced power), seek help sooner.
- Check the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the exact meaning of the symbol and recommended action.
- If you’re unsure about the meaning or how to respond, contact a qualified mechanic or road assistance to diagnose the issue with onboard diagnostics (OBD) or professional inspection.
By following these steps, you can minimize risk while ensuring appropriate maintenance and timely repairs.
Symbol explanations by light
Check Engine / MIL
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp lights up when the engine control unit detects an issue with engine management, emissions, or fuel systems. It can range from a loose gas cap to a faulty sensor. If the light stays on, have the vehicle scanned for trouble codes to guide repairs. If it’s flashing, reduce speed and stop driving if safe to prevent catalytic damage.
Oil Pressure Warning
This red indicator warns that engine oil pressure is too low. Continuing to drive can cause severe engine damage. Stop as soon as safely possible, turn off the engine, and check oil level after it cools. If the level is adequate, there may be a more serious oil pump or leak issue requiring service.
Battery / Charging System
The charging system light suggests an issue with the alternator, battery, or charging circuit. If the battery cannot hold a charge, the car may stall. Have the electrical system inspected to identify faulty components or wiring before you get stranded.
Coolant Temperature
The coolant temperature symbol indicates the engine temperature. A blue icon means the engine is cooling down or warming up; a red thermometer indicates the engine is overheating. If overheating occurs, pull over safely, shut off the engine, and inspect for leaks or low coolant levels before continuing or seeking help.
Brake System Warning
A red brake warning can mean the parking brake is engaged or there is a problem with the brake hydraulic system or fluid level. If the light stays on while driving, reduce speed and have the braking system checked promptly. Do not ignore ongoing brake warnings.
ABS / Traction Control
An amber ABS or stability/traction control light points to a fault in the anti-lock braking system or electronic stability control. You may still drive, but braking performance on slippery surfaces could be reduced. Have the system diagnosed to restore full safety features.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The TPMS light signals underinflated tires or a fault in the TPMS sensor. Check tire pressures using a gauge and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended level. If the light remains on after inflation, the sensor or system may need service.
Airbag / SRS
The airbag or supplemental restraint system light indicates a fault in the airbag or pretensioner circuitry. This does not affect everyday driving, but airbags may not deploy correctly in a crash. Have the system inspected as soon as possible.
Maintenance / Service Due
A maintenance or wrench icon means scheduled service is due or approaching. This is a reminder to perform routine maintenance such as oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections to keep the vehicle reliable and safe.
Summary
Dashboard lights are essential communication from your vehicle about status and safety. Red indicators require immediate action, amber reminders call for attention soon, and blue/green indicators signal system activity or warming. Always consult your owner’s manual for exact definitions, and when in doubt, seek professional diagnosis to protect your car and your safety. Regular maintenance and timely responses to dash lights help prevent breakdowns and extend vehicle life.
