Car dashboards are full of lights and icons, and they can be quite confusing if you don’t know what they mean. While some symbols are pretty obvious, others are more cryptic. This guide will help you understand what your car’s dashboard symbols mean and how to respond if they come on.
Every car model has its own set of dashboard symbols, and some of them might be different from others. However, there are some universal symbols that you should be familiar with.
Common Car Dashboard Symbols and Their Meanings
Warning Lights
1. Engine Warning Light: This is one of the most important warning lights you should be aware of. It usually looks like a small engine with a lightning bolt inside it. This light indicates that there’s a problem with your engine, and you should get it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
2. Check Engine Light: This light usually looks like a check engine icon. It can indicate a variety of issues, from a loose gas cap to a more serious problem. If this light comes on, you should have your car diagnosed by a mechanic.
3. ABS Warning Light: This light indicates that your anti-lock braking system (ABS) is not working properly. You should get your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
4. Brake Warning Light: This light indicates that your brake system is not working properly. You should stop driving your car and get it checked out by a mechanic immediately.
5. Tire Pressure Warning Light: This light indicates that one or more of your tires are underinflated. You should check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level as soon as possible.
6. Battery Warning Light: This light indicates that there’s a problem with your car’s battery. You should get your battery checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
7. Traction Control Warning Light: This light indicates that your traction control system is not working properly. You should have your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
8. Airbag Warning Light: This light indicates that there’s a problem with your airbag system. You should get your car checked out by a mechanic immediately.
9. Power Steering Warning Light: This light indicates that there’s a problem with your power steering system. You should get your car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Information Lights
1. High Beam Indicator: This light indicates that your high beams are on.
2. Low Fuel Warning Light: This light indicates that you are running low on fuel.
3. Turn Signal Indicator: This light will blink when you turn on your turn signal.
4. Cruise Control Indicator: This light indicates that your cruise control is engaged.
5. Door Ajar Warning Light: This light will come on if one of your doors is not completely closed.
6. Seatbelt Warning Light: This light will come on if you or a passenger is not wearing a seatbelt.
7. Parking Brake Warning Light: This light will come on if your parking brake is engaged.
8. Temperature Warning Light: This light indicates that your engine is overheating. You should pull over to a safe location and let your engine cool down.
9. Oil Pressure Warning Light: This light indicates that your engine oil pressure is low. You should pull over to a safe location and shut off your engine.
What to do if a Dashboard Light Comes On
If any of these lights come on, it’s important to take action. The first step is to check your owner’s manual to find out what the specific light means. This manual provides detailed information specific to your car model and year.
If you can’t figure out what the light means or if it’s a warning light, you should pull over to a safe location and call a tow truck. It’s never a good idea to ignore a warning light, as it could mean that there’s a serious problem with your car.
Here are some additional tips for dealing with dashboard lights:
- Don’t panic. Most dashboard lights are not indicative of major problems.
- Check your owner’s manual. The manual will have a section that explains all of the lights and symbols on your dashboard.
- If you’re unsure what the light means, call a mechanic.
- Don’t ignore a warning light. If it’s a warning light, it means that something is wrong and needs to be addressed.
Car Dashboard Symbols: A Visual Glossary
Here is a glossary of common car dashboard symbols, with explanations for each symbol, and relevant articles you can refer to:
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Conclusion
Understanding car dashboard symbols is essential for all drivers. By learning the meanings of these lights, you can quickly identify potential problems and take appropriate action. You can prevent any potential future risks to yourself, other drivers, and your car.
FAQ
Q: What are some common car dashboard symbols that are not warning lights?
A: Common information lights include indicators for headlights, turn signals, cruise control, fuel level, and parking brake.
Q: Why does my car dashboard light sometimes flash?
A: A flashing dashboard light usually indicates a more serious problem, requiring immediate attention. It’s advisable to pull over and check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Q: How can I know if my car’s warning lights are working properly?
A: You can often test your warning lights by turning the ignition key to the “ON” position, without starting the engine. This will typically illuminate all your warning lights briefly.
Q: What should I do if I’m unsure about a dashboard light?
A: It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure about a dashboard light, call a mechanic or roadside assistance.
Q: Are there any online tools to help identify car dashboard symbols?
A: Yes, there are many online resources available to help you identify car dashboard symbols. You can search for them on Google, or consult your car manufacturer’s website.
Q: Is it safe to drive with a dashboard light on?
A: It depends on the light. If it’s a warning light, it’s generally not safe to drive with it on. However, if it’s an information light, such as a high beam indicator, you can usually continue driving.
Q: What if my car’s dashboard lights are not working?
A: If your dashboard lights are not working, you should have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. A malfunctioning dashboard lighting system could indicate a more serious electrical problem.
Q: Is there a difference between a check engine light and an engine warning light?
A: While both indicate engine issues, the check engine light (often accompanied by a “CEL” message) might signal a less urgent issue, like a loose gas cap or a sensor issue. The engine warning light (usually a picture of an engine with a lightning bolt) often signals a more serious issue requiring immediate attention.
Q: How can I get help if my car has a dashboard light on?
A: If you’re unsure about a dashboard light, you can contact a mechanic directly or reach out to DiagXcar, where we can connect you with a reliable, qualified mechanic.
