What is the orange symbol on a Honda CR-V?

The orange symbol you’re most likely to see on a Honda CR‑V is the Check Engine light (the Malfunction Indicator Lamp, or MIL). It indicates an engine or emissions issue that should be diagnosed. While a loose gas cap can trigger it, many other faults could cause the light to come on.

Beyond the Check Engine light, CR‑V dashboards can show other amber indicators depending on the year and trim. These include a general Master Warning triangle, a tire‑pressure warning, a VSA off indicator, and a maintenance minder wrench. Knowing what each light means helps you respond appropriately.

Common orange dashboard indicators

Orange indicators signal warnings that warrant attention, but their urgency varies. Here are the lights you’re most likely to encounter on CR‑V models:

• Check Engine / Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) — engine icon. Signals a fault in the engine management or emissions control system. Causes range from a loose gas cap to faulty sensors or more serious engine issues.


• Master Warning light — a triangle with an exclamation mark. A general warning that one or more vehicle systems require attention, often shown with another specific light.


• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning — exclamation inside a tire or a horse‑shoe symbol. Indicates at least one tire is underinflated and may affect handling and tire wear.


• VSA Off indicator — car with wavy lines. Means the Vehicle Stability Assist system is turned off, usually by pressing the VSA OFF button or due to a fault in the system.


• Maintenance Minder / service due — wrench icon or “MAINT REQD.” Indicates maintenance is due per Honda’s maintenance schedule.

These lights cover distinct issues, so consult the owner’s manual or an authorized Honda technician for the exact meaning for your year and trim. If an orange warning remains illuminated while driving, arrange a check‑up soon.

What to do if the orange symbol appears

When an amber light appears, follow a practical set of steps to protect the engine and stay safe. The guidance below helps you respond effectively in most situations.

1. Note whether the light is blinking or steady. A blinking Check Engine light often signals a severe issue such as a misfire, which can damage the catalytic converter. If it blinks, pull over safely as soon as possible and turn off the engine if you’re in danger; then seek assistance.


2. Check obvious causes. If the light is the MIL, first verify the gas cap is tight and not damaged. A loose or faulty cap can trigger the light. For a TPMS warning, inspect tire pressures and inflate to the recommended psi shown on the doorjamb label.


3. Observe accompanying symptoms. Notice any reduced power, rough idle, hesitation, unusual noises, or poor fuel economy. Document these to help a mechanic diagnose the fault.


4. Diagnose with a code reader or professional service. If you have access to an OBD‑II scanner, retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to identify the subsystem involved (emissions, engine, transmission, etc.). If unsure, take the vehicle to a Honda dealer or qualified shop.


5. Decide on the urgency. A steady MIL may allow planned maintenance, but issues affecting acceleration, temperature, or power warrant prompt inspection to avoid further damage.


6. Proceed with recommended repairs and reset. After the fault is fixed, have the system checked so the light can be cleared and remaining fault codes are resolved.

If you see critical warnings—such as a brake or oil pressure indicator—stop safely and seek roadside assistance if needed.

Blinking versus steady: urgency matters

A practical rule of thumb is that a blinking check engine light is more urgent than a steady one. A blink often points to a misfire or emissions issue that could damage the catalytic converter if driven hard. A steady light may indicate a fault that can wait for a scheduled service, but it still requires diagnosis to prevent potential damage.

For precise, model‑year specifics, consult the owner’s manual or a Honda technician; a codes readout from a diagnostic tool is the most efficient way to identify the exact subsystem involved.

Summary

In most Honda CR‑V models, the orange dashboard symbol you’ll encounter first is the Check Engine light (MIL), signaling an engine or emissions fault. Other amber indicators—Master Warning, TPMS, VSA off, and Maintenance Minder—appear based on year and trim. Treat blinking lights as urgent, perform a quick check (gas cap, tire pressures), and seek diagnostic help to protect the engine and ensure safe driving. Regular maintenance and timely repairs help prevent these lights from coming on unexpectedly.

What is the orange icon on my dashboard?

An orange symbol on a dashboard typically indicates a maintenance or warning issue that is not an immediate emergency, such as low tire pressure, a low fuel level, or a system malfunction that requires attention soon. The specific meaning depends on the symbol, so it's important to consult your car's owner's manual for an exact explanation.
 
Common orange dashboard symbols and their meanings

• Triangle with an exclamation point: This is a general warning and could mean a variety of things, including low tire pressure, a malfunctioning sensor, or a problem with the stability control system. 
• Engine management light (check engine light): This indicates a potential issue with the engine or powertrain. While you can usually continue driving, it's best to have it checked by a mechanic soon to prevent further damage. 
• Low tire pressure: This symbol, often a horseshoe shape with an exclamation point inside, means one or more of your tires are underinflated. 
• Low fuel: This warning, usually the shape of a gas pump, indicates that your fuel tank is almost empty. 
• Electronic stability control (ESC) or traction control: This symbol (often a car with squiggly lines behind it) indicates that the system is either on, has been triggered by a slippery surface, or has a malfunction. 
• ABS malfunction: An orange "ABS" light means there is a problem with your anti-lock braking system. 
• Low washer fluid: Some cars will show a symbol of a windshield with a splash of liquid to indicate low washer fluid. 

What to do when you see an orange warning light

1. Check the symbol: Look for the specific symbol on your dashboard and note its shape and any accompanying text on the display. 
2. Consult your owner's manual: Your car's manual will have a detailed explanation of what the specific symbol means and what you should do next. 
3. Adjust for issues: If the light is for a simple issue like low fuel or tire pressure, address it. For tire pressure, check the pressure and adjust it as needed. If the light doesn't turn off, have it inspected. 
4. Seek professional help: If the symbol indicates a more serious issue, such as a powertrain or ABS warning, or if the light comes back on after a reset, it's best to take your car to a certified mechanic for diagnosis. 

What does the orange exclamation mark mean in a Honda CR-V?

Tires: An orange exclamation point inside a tire indicates low tire pressure. Gas: If an orange fuel pump shows up on your dashboard, it means you need to fill up your tank ASAP.

What is the master warning ⚠?

The master warning light, a triangle with an exclamation mark, is a general warning that indicates a malfunction in one or more of the vehicle's safety or advanced electronic systems. It can signal issues ranging from low windshield washer fluid to serious problems with the engine, brakes, or stability control. When this light appears, you should check the car's display for a specific message and consult the owner's manual to identify the exact problem and determine if it is safe to drive.
 
This video explains what the master warning light means and what actions you should take: 20sToyota of SeattleYouTube · May 3, 2018
Possible causes

• Low fluid levels: Windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, or oil can be a common trigger. 
• System malfunctions: It can indicate a problem with advanced systems like the electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, or power steering. 
• Sensor issues: Faulty sensors related to various systems can also trigger the light. 
• Routine maintenance needed: It can simply be a reminder that a scheduled service is due. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the causes of the master warning light, such as low washer fluid and open doors: 41sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Dec 21, 2024
What to do

1. Check your display: Look at the car's information display for a more specific message that often accompanies the master warning light. 
2. Consult the owner's manual: The manual will provide a guide to all dashboard symbols and explain what the master warning light means for your specific vehicle model. 
3. Check basic fluid levels: If there are no other obvious messages, check your windshield washer fluid, and then your brake fluid. 
4. Do not ignore it: Even if it turns out to be a minor issue, like low washer fluid, it's important to address the cause to turn the light off and prevent future issues. 
5. Seek professional help: If you cannot determine the cause or if the light indicates a serious problem, it is best to have your car inspected by a qualified mechanic. 

This video shows how to diagnose and reset the master warning light: 1mDashboard warning lights YouTube · Aug 6, 2025

What is the orange tool light on my Honda CR-V?

The wrench symbol is a warning light that means your Honda is due for a scheduled maintenance service. This wrench symbol is known as the Honda Maintenance Minder, and it calculates your car's maintenance needs with advanced algorithms that factor in driving habits and more.