Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings Explained

Dashboard lights aren’t just simple icons – they’re your car’s way of saying, “Pay attention! Something may need your care”. Each light signals a specific issue or system status, helping you stay safe on the road. While all dashboard lights deserve your attention, some are more critical than others. Continue reading to learn more about different car light meanings, which ones you shouldn’t ignore, and what you should do depending on which one lights up.

What Does Each Dashboard Light Mean?

Here’s a breakdown of car dashboard symbols and their meanings so you can better understand what your car is trying to tell you.

Check Engine Light

This usually looks like an engine icon or may say “Check Engine”. But, why is your check engine light on? The check engine light is a general warning that something could be wrong with your engine or emissions system. While it doesn’t always signal an emergency, it’s best to have it checked as soon as possible to prevent further issues.

Battery Light

Shaped like a battery icon, this light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system, possibly related to the battery or alternator. If this light stays on, your car may not start next time, so it’s wise to have it looked at promptly.

Oil Pressure Warning

Represented by an oil can symbol, this light warns of low oil pressure, which can lead to severe engine damage. If this light appears, pull over safely and check your oil levels. Continuing to drive with low oil pressure can cause significant engine problems down the line.

Brake System Warning

This light may appear as an exclamation mark inside a circle or with the word “BRAKE”. It could indicate low brake fluid or an issue with the brake system. Since brakes are essential for safety, we recommend you get this checked right away.

Coolant Temperature Warning

Usually shaped like a thermometer, this light signals that your engine may be overheating. Overheating can cause severe damage, so it’s best to pull over, let the engine cool, and seek help if this light appears.

Tire Pressure Warning

This light looks like a horseshoe with an exclamation point in the middle and alerts you to low tire pressure. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, handling, and safety, so check your tire pressure soon if this light appears.

ABS Light

This icon, often labeled “ABS”, relates to your car’s Anti-lock Braking System. If this light is on, it means there might be an issue with the system, which helps prevent wheel lockup during braking. While you can still drive, it’s smart to have this checked to ensure safe braking.

Airbag Warning Light

Shaped like a person with a circle in front, this light indicates a problem with your airbag system. Since airbags are critical for safety during a collision, it’s very important to get this checked to be sure that they’ll deploy if needed.

Other Car Warning Lights

Additional car light symbols, such as the Traction Control, Door Open, and Seatbelt Reminder lights, are there to signal minor issues or reminders. While these may not always indicate urgent problems, they’re worth paying attention to for overall safety and vehicle health.

What to Do When a Dashboard Light Turns On

Seeing a dashboard light come on can be alarming, but knowing what steps to take can help you handle the situation calmly and effectively. Here’s what to do when you notice a warning light:

• Stay Calm and Assess: Don’t panic if a light comes on while you’re driving. Many dashboard lights aren’t immediate emergencies, so stay calm and try to identify the symbol. Most lights are color-coded: red usually indicates an urgent issue, while yellow or orange suggests a warning that needs attention but isn’t necessarily critical.

• Check the Vehicle Manual: If you’re unsure about what a light on the dashboard means, consult your vehicle’s owner manual. Here, you’ll find a full explanation of each dashboard symbol for your specific vehicle.

• Take Precautions if Needed: For lights that indicate serious issues – like the oil pressure, coolant temperature, or brake warning – pull over safely as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and investigate the issue if it’s something you can safely check.

• Schedule a Professional Inspection: If the light doesn’t go away or if you’re unsure about what’s causing it, it’s best to have a professional inspect your vehicle. Handling the issue promptly can prevent additional damage and help you avoid expensive repairs.

What to Do When Dashboard Lights Keep Appearing

By understanding dashboard lights meanings, you can ensure your vehicle stays safe to drive and catch potential problems early. Regular maintenance also reduces the chances of car warning lights appearing unexpectedly. However, if repairs become too expensive or frequent, it may be time to consider buying a reliable used car instead. 

At Express Credit Auto, we offer a wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected and are ready for the road. Plus, we provide in-house financing options even if you have low or zero credit, making it easier to get behind the wheel of a reliable vehicle. Stop settling for costly repairs – explore our inventory today and start driving a car you can count on!

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