What is the exclamation mark on my dashboard?

The exclamation mark on your dashboard is a warning indicator that something requires your attention. This symbol is commonly used to alert drivers of potential issues with their vehicle that need to be addressed.

What Does the Exclamation Mark Mean?

The exclamation mark on your dashboard is typically associated with the vehicle's onboard diagnostics system. When this light illuminates, it indicates that the system has detected a problem or issue that requires further investigation. This could be related to the engine, transmission, emissions system, or other critical components of your vehicle.

Potential Causes of the Exclamation Mark

There are several potential reasons why the exclamation mark may appear on your dashboard:

• Engine or Emissions System Issues: The exclamation mark may indicate a problem with the engine, such as a malfunctioning sensor, a faulty spark plug, or an issue with the emissions control system.


• Transmission Problems: The exclamation mark can also signal a problem with the vehicle's transmission, such as low fluid levels or a malfunctioning component.


• Electrical System Faults: The exclamation mark may be triggered by an issue with the vehicle's electrical system, such as a problem with the battery, alternator, or wiring.


• Brake System Concerns: In some cases, the exclamation mark may indicate a problem with the vehicle's brake system, such as low brake fluid levels or a malfunctioning brake component.

It's important to note that the specific cause of the exclamation mark can vary depending on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. If the exclamation mark appears on your dashboard, it's recommended to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and address the underlying issue.

What to Do When the Exclamation Mark Appears

If the exclamation mark appears on your dashboard, follow these steps:

• Check the Owner's Manual: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual to understand what the exclamation mark indicates and any recommended actions to take.


• Perform a Visual Inspection: Visually inspect your vehicle for any obvious signs of damage or issues, such as leaks, loose connections, or unusual noises.


• Scan for Diagnostic Codes: Use an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) scanner to read any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been stored by the vehicle's onboard computer. This can help identify the specific issue that triggered the exclamation mark.


• Seek Professional Assistance: If you are unable to diagnose the issue or feel uncomfortable addressing it yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for further inspection and repair.

Addressing the issue that triggered the exclamation mark on your dashboard is important to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of your vehicle. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly identify and resolve the underlying problem, helping to prevent more serious and costly repairs down the line.

How to fix exclamation point car light?

Low Tire Pressure
If it's an exclamation point, it must be important, right? Well, yes, we would not be ones to advocate for ignoring warning lights. The simplest solution is to add air to all four tires using a quality gauge to check your work.

Is it safe to drive with an exclamation mark?

Yellow Warning Light
A yellow triangle with an exclamation point is usually a non-critical warning. It indicates that the problem you're dealing with won't necessarily put you in danger while you're on the road, but you should still have your vehicle checked.

What does the (!) light mean in my car?

A car light with an exclamation point can indicate a few things: an exclamation point inside parentheses is a low tire pressure warning, while an exclamation point inside a circle with parentheses is a general brake system warning that could mean low brake fluid or a problem with the parking brake. Another common variation is a steering wheel with an exclamation point, which signifies a power steering system issue.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the different car dashboard warning lights: 55sCar Care FixYouTube · Nov 11, 2025
Specific meaning based on the icon

• Exclamation point between parentheses (!): This indicates low tire pressure. You should add air to your tires. If the light stays on after inflating them, have a mechanic check for a puncture or other damage. 
• Exclamation point inside a circle ( ): This is a general brake system warning light. It can mean the parking brake is engaged or there is low brake fluid or another issue with the braking system. 
  • If the light comes on while driving, it's a serious warning that requires you to stop safely and have the car checked immediately. 
• Steering wheel with an exclamation point: This signals a problem with the power steering system. 
  • Check the power steering fluid reservoir if you have a hydraulic system. 
  • If the light persists or you have an electric power steering system, do not drive the vehicle and get it serviced as it can be very difficult to steer. 

Color of the light

• Red: A red light is a serious warning that requires immediate attention, often meaning you should pull over safely and stop the car.
• Yellow or Amber: A yellow or amber light indicates a caution, meaning the vehicle needs to be serviced soon but it's not an immediate emergency. 

This video explains what to do when a red car dashboard light comes on: 58sDon Wheaton Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac LtdYouTube · Aug 23, 2018

What are the common causes of (!) on my car?

There's a few common reasons this light may appear. The most obvious is that one or more of your tires has a leak. However, swings in the outside air temperature can also cause low tire pressure, which also results in the tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) indicator light coming on. That's not uncommon in the St.