Picture this: You need to go to a nearby supermarket to pick up groceries, so you pack your bags and get in your car. However, the dashboard symbols are blinking away. This continues to happen regardless of the changes you make, adding to your increasing frustration and causing delays.
Dashboard symbols can be challenging, especially if you have recently started driving. Newer models of cars have complex dashboard symbols, making it difficult for people to transition from old versions to new ones. However, since every symbol has meaning and purpose, understanding the car dashboard symbols’ meaning is essential for identifying potential issues and ensuring safe vehicle operation to avoid hassles later.
Understanding Dashboard Symbol Colours
Different symbols on the dashboard have varying meanings. Here is what car dashboard symbols mean:
Red Light
What does it mean: It indicates a potential problem with the car that needs urgent attention.
Potential problem areas: Brake issues, low oil pressure, overheating engine, or battery problems.
Solution: Immediately contact your mechanic and schedule an inspection of your car.
Orange (in some cases, yellow) Light
What does it mean: It indicates problems that need repair, but not immediately. These problems don’t cause performance issues with the car.
Potential problem areas: The colour usually indicates problems with the engine or system.
Solution: While this dashboard colour does not indicate an urgent problem, it’s still best to consult a mechanic.
Blue or Green Light
What does it mean: It usually indicates some feature is on; it does not indicate a problem.
Potential problem areas: There is nothing to worry about; check for the feature in your car that needs to be turned off.
Solution: Check the features that are not required but are on and turn them off.
Common Car Dashboard Symbols and Their Meanings
Here are some standard dashboard symbols to know about:
Engine Warning Light
This light shows up when the sensors detect a problem with the engine system. The problem can be of varying nature, including a plug fault or even low compression. It’s best to avoid fixing these issues by yourself and instead contact a mechanic. Any errors during repairs can lead to greater concerns with the engine management system.
Oil Pressure Warning
Low engine oil pressure can cause immense stress to the engine system. When this light shows up, paying attention to your car’s maintenance is essential. To avoid causing any damage to the engine, consider getting it quickly checked by a mechanic. The oil pressure warning can show up due to low oil levels, engine wear, oil pump issues, or a clogged oil filter. Sometimes, a faulty oil pressure sensor can trigger this warning, and getting it checked as soon as possible is crucial.
Battery Charge Warning
The battery system is a crucial component of a car, and when a battery charge warning light shows up, it indicates problems with the charging system or the battery itself. If the battery systems malfunction, you need a manual jumpstart to start your car. When your car’s engine is on, and the light comes on, this can indicate that the battery charging system is not working correctly. It’s best to check your battery system professionally to identify and repair the issue immediately.
Brake System Warning
If you see an exclamation mark with a circle around it, it indicates something is wrong with your braking system. A faulty braking system poses serious safety concerns and makes driving an unsafe experience. The problem usually arises when there are issues with the braking component and the hydraulic fluid. When this light is on, it’s best to check if the parking brakes are disengaged and then check the brake fluid levels. If unsure, avoid driving the vehicle and request professional assistance for inspection and braking system repair.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The tyre pressure monitoring system constantly looks for any pressure imbalance in the tyres. When the systems are not working properly, other car components, like the braking system, will not work correctly either. In addition, the engine will have to work more to produce the same torque to keep the vehicle rolling. To tackle this challenge, you will need to visit the nearest service station and get the air pressure in your tyres balanced.
Coolant Temperature Warning
The coolant is critical in maintaining the car’s engine in perfect condition. If the car’s engine overheats, it becomes susceptible to damage. On the other hand, improper coolant temperature in winter can make starting your vehicle challenging. So, whenever the coolant temperature warning shows up on your dashboard or not, it’s essential to take precautions to avoid damaging the engine.
ABS Warning Light
The ABS warning light is part of the braking system. When this sign shows up on the dashboard, it indicates issues with the anti-lock braking system. If not fixed, the issue can lead to problems where sudden braking is required. Even if you apply the brakes, the brakes may lock, eventually preventing the car from coming to a complete stop. ABS is a remarkable technological advancement designed to protect drivers in case they have to make sudden brakes. It’s best to check your ABS professionally to ensure consistency and proper functioning.
Airbag Warning Light
As per the Australian Design Rules (ADRs), new cars must have airbags to protect the passengers in case of an accident. If you see the airbag sign on your dashboard, getting it checked as soon as possible is highly recommended. Any problems with the airbags can increase safety risks. If the sensors malfunction, there’s also a higher risk of the airbags not deploying in case of an accident.
Traction Control Warning
Your car’s traction control system must work well to avoid wheelspin in harsh weather conditions. When these systems are not working correctly, accelerating and managing the vehicle while driving can become challenging. Any system malfunction can be due to faulty sensors and wiring. Other reasons often include low brake fluid or even accidental activation of the traction control system.
Seat Belt Reminder
Seat belts are an essential part of any car. They keep the driver and other passengers strapped to their seats during an accident, ensuring their safety and well-being. When the seatbelt sign on the dashboard beeps, it is often a reminder to wear the seat belt before beginning to drive. Seatbelts are mandatory, so consider putting your seatbelts on whenever the sign shows up.
Door Ajar Warning
The door ajar warning appears when the door has been left open for too long. It is usually delivered via a beeping sound. When this sign appears on the dashboard, it’s essential to close the door properly. Though no complications arise if the door has been left open for too long, it is necessary to heed the warning signal and close it for safety and compliance.
Less Common Dashboard Symbols
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Warning
The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) warning is native to cars with diesel engines. The warning sign indicates that the filter is clogged with soot. It often calls for quick action to avoid causing damage to the system, as the engine system cannot actively or passively regenerate itself. If the soot clogging is not cleared, it can cause performance-related damage to the engine, eventually reducing the overall efficiency of the engine.
Glow Plug Warning (Diesel Engines)
Glow plugs are essential for a diesel engine car, igniting the fuel and air in the internal combustion system. When the glow plug warning light turns on, it can indicate faults in the system, often leading to problems while starting the engine. A steady light indicates that the glow plug is working correctly, whereas a blinking glow plug warning light indicates a problem that needs professional inspection.
Lane Departure Warning
Lane departure warnings have become increasingly common in heavy vehicles, particularly to avoid road accidents. If the lane departure warning lights are on, it is recommended that you check if you are deviating from the lane you should be driving in. If no measures are taken, the car’s in-built system will engage in corrective steering to bring the vehicle back to its correct lane.
Adaptive Cruise Control Indicator
The adaptive cruise control indicator comes into play when a specific speed limit is set, and the system is active. These systems are also used for scanning slower vehicles in a high-traffic area and managing the vehicle’s speed while maintaining a safe distance from other cars. Once the traffic clears out, the vehicle’s speed returns to normal, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free driving experience. The feature automatically turns on and can be managed through the system’s administrative centre.
What to Do When a Warning Light Appears
Seeing a warning light appear on your car’s dashboard can initially seem worrisome. However, it’s important not to panic and instead understand what the symbol means. If required, slow down your vehicle, park it safely, and contact a professional instead of making decisions alone. While some warning lights are not critical, others may require immediate professional assistance. Warning lights like the red oil warning light, the engine warning light, and even ABS-related warnings should not be ignored.
Conclusion
Today’s cars are designed to ensure the safety and security of drivers and passengers. Warning signs on the dashboards often result from some car components not functioning properly. Some warnings can be fixed by closing the door, while others require professional inspection and fixing. Putting your safety first and getting your vehicle checked to avoid hassles or severe damage is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Continue Driving with a Warning Light On?
Whether you can drive with the warning lights on depends on the severity and colour of the light. For instance, driving with a warning light indicating problems with the engine or braking system is not recommended. In an emergency, your vehicle cannot respond promptly for your safety. If you see red lights indicating problems with the engine management system, braking, or pressure system, it’s best to park your vehicle and call professionals for assistance safely.
Are Dashboard Symbols Universal Across All Cars?
While specific models and makes follow a universal dashboard warning system, some brands may have specifications unique to their vehicles. To avoid confusion and ensure you know how to react when a dashboard warning sign pops up, it’s recommended that you thoroughly review the user manual. This will help you understand car dashboard symbols and meanings, as well as what needs to be done when they pop up.
How Can I Reset a Dashboard Warning Light?
Turning the ignition on/off is an effective way to reset the dashboard warning light. If the warning lights continue, it is highly recommended that you identify and rectify the error. This will ensure your safety and well-being while neutralising or deactivating the warning indication.
