To help car owners better navigate the symbols on the dashboard, AutoPortal has prepared a brief overview of the most common indicators.
What the color means
First of all, it is worth remembering that the color of the light is the main signal, similar to a traffic light.
Red color — driving the car is dangerous
Yellow — calls for attention (like a traffic light)
Green — serves only an informational function (for example, parking lights or low beam). Other shades are also found. For instance, blue usually signals only that the high beam is activated.
It should be noted that most indicators (especially red and yellow) should go out a few seconds after starting the engine. If they continue to stay on constantly (except when the headlights or fog lights are on), this indicates a malfunction.
Usually, the explanation of all symbols can be found in the owner's manual. But what to do if the car was bought on the secondary market and the owner did not hand over the booklet? In such a situation, our article will be useful.
Here we will analyze the most significant and frequently encountered pictograms, omitting obvious ones — such as turn signals, light indicators, low fuel level warning, and the like. It is unlikely that anyone needs these basic things explained.
Decoding symbols on the panel
Oil pressure warning light. If it does not disappear after starting the engine (stays on constantly or flashes), you need to urgently check the oil level — it has probably dropped to a critical level.
ABS icon. Indicates malfunctions in the anti-lock braking system. You can drive, but with caution — during emergency braking, the system may not work.
Brake system indicator. If it does not go out, continuing the trip is very risky. Usually, this indicates a lack of brake fluid or problems with the parking brake.
Brake pad wear warning. Reminds that it is time to check the condition of the pads.
Battery or alternator indicator. Indicates a discharged battery or a faulty alternator. If the light comes on while driving, it is worth inspecting the alternator belt. If necessary, it is better to turn off energy-consuming devices (radio, lights, etc.) to continue the trip.
Open door warning. Depending on the model, it may indicate an unclosed door or trunk. In many modern cars, it shows the specific door.
Engine malfunction indicator. If the icon or the CHECK inscription lights up, it means there are errors in the electronic engine control unit. It often appears after refueling with low-quality fuel. In any case, it is better to contact a service center — it is usually impossible to find the cause yourself.
Airbag sensor (SRS). Signals malfunctions in the airbag system or seat belt pretensioners.
Engine temperature indicator. A blue icon on some cars indicates that the engine has not warmed up yet — until it disappears, you should not give high RPMs. Orange color warns of overheating.
Timing belt indicator. Not found on all cars, but it exists. If T-BELT lights up — it is time to replace the timing belt.
Glow plug indicator (EPC). Typical for diesel engines. It is better to go for diagnostics immediately — the reasons can be different, but it is as alarming a signal as CHECK.
Cruise control indicator. If the light does not go out when the system is turned off, there is a malfunction.
Sonar indicator. A symbol still unusual for Ukrainian drivers. Found on cars with adaptive cruise control.
Electric power steering indicator. A yellow icon in the form of a steering wheel — a minor error, red — a serious one.
Lighting malfunction indicator. Lights up if one of the external lamps (parking lights, low beam, etc.) has burned out.
Fuel filler flap indicator. A rare symbol. If it is on — the flap is open.
Washer fluid level indicator. If it lights up — you need to add fluid to the windshield washer reservoir.
This icon indicates the need to add coolant to the radiator.
Diesel particulate filter indicator. Found on diesel cars and reminds of the need to replace or clean the filter.
Tire pressure sensor. Lights up when the pressure in one or more wheels drops to a critical level.
Child seat indicator. Lights up if the seat is installed incorrectly.
AT Check indicator. Appears when there are problems with the automatic transmission. Similar to engine error diagnostics.
O/D off indicator. Found on cars with automatic transmission. Indicates that Overdrive mode is turned off.
Keyless access indicator. If such a symbol lights up, it means there is a malfunction in the keyless access or engine start system. It is recommended not to turn off the engine and immediately go to a service center — otherwise, after stopping, you may not be able to start the car with the button and will have to open it mechanically.
All-wheel drive indicator. On cars with pluggable all-wheel drive, it may mean activation of this system. But if the drive is off or permanent, and the light is on — there are malfunctions. It is indicated by the inscription 4WD or a picture.
ESP Off. When such a sign appears, it is worth checking whether the dynamic stabilization system is turned off. In many cars, when it is turned off, the OFF inscription lights up. If the system was not turned off, but the indicator is on — a malfunction has occurred. Different manufacturers call this system differently. Ferrari — CST, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mazda, Mini — DSC, Volvo — DSTS, Mitsubishi — MASC, Maserati — MSP, Porsche — PSM, Alfa Romeo, Subaru — VDC, Honda — VSA, Daihatsu, Lexus, Toyota — VSC.
Instead of a conclusion
The listed indicators are the most typical. But this does not mean that your car will not have other symbols. Everything depends on the make, year of manufacture, and trim level. Therefore, our overview is useful for most drivers, but it does not cover all possible icons. The main rule: if the dashboard suddenly starts flashing like a Christmas tree — this is not a holiday. This is a reason to visit a service center, because without special equipment it is almost impossible to determine the cause of most signals yourself.
