Car Dashboard Warning Signs: A Complete Guide

Dashboard signs usually appear when there is something wrong with your car as a warning or indication. It could look like a tiny engine, an exclamation mark, & maybe something you’re not familiar with. There are so many dashboard signs that it could be difficult to identify the issue.

This guide breaks down what these signs mean, how serious they are, & what to do when they appear, so you’re never left guessing behind the wheel.

What Do Dashboard Warning Signs Mean?

Dashboard warning signs are the symbols that appear in your car dashboard that tell you if the car is malfunctioning to keep you safe and informed.

Each warning light is designed to:

• Alert you of a specific issue (e.g. brake system problem, battery issue)
• Indicate severity of the issue (via color)
• Prompt immediate or scheduled action

What does a dashboard light color indicate?

Similar to a traffic signal, you will notice that your dashboard lights in three main colors: red, yellow or orange and green (or blue). 

Red warning light indicates a serious issue that requires your immediate attention. Think of it as ‘stop immediately’. For example, airbags deploy failure or engine overheating.

Yellow or orange light indicates an issue that is not urgent. An example is low tire pressure.

Green (or blue) light indicates that a system is in use, such as headlights or cruise control.

Common Car Dashboard Signs Explained 

1. Check Engine Light

If you see a yellow or amber light that is shaped like a small engine, it could mean a range of problems, such as a loose gas cap or something serious like a misfiring cylinder. If the check engine light is flashing, we recommend stopping and pulling over to get immediate attention.

Severity: Moderate to Critical | Action: Get diagnostics immediately if light flashes

2. Brake Warning Light

Never ignore an exclamation mark inside a circle. This warning sign may indicate that your brake fluid is low or that there’s a malfunction in the braking system. When it’s flashing, your car needs a prompt inspection.

Severity: Critical | Action: Pull over immediately

3. Oil Pressure Warning Light

Remember those old-fashioned oil cans? If you see this sign, your oil pressure is too low and you may risk starving the engine of lubrication. Since it’s a red alert, turn the engine off immediately to prevent permanent damage.

Severity: Critical | Action: Pull over immediately to check oil level

4. Fog Lamp Indicator Light

The Fog Lamp sign is more of an indicator than a warning light & it looks like a headlight symbol with a squiggly line. This green symbol indicates that your fog lights are on, and if you use them unnecessarily, it can make it difficult for other drivers to see the road.

Only use the fog light if your visibility is less than 100 yards.

Severity: None | Action: None; Turn off fog lights if visibility is not hindered

5. Battery/Charging System Light

When you see a battery icon, there’s a chance your car might be running solely off the battery. It often indicates a bad alternator or a loose connection.

Severity: High | Action: Pull over immediately or drive to a service center soon

Related topic: Why won’t my car start?

6. ABS Warning Light

ABS light is easy to identify as it usually spells out the words in the dashboard in yellow/amber. It indicates a fault in the Anti-lock Braking System.

Don’t worry! You can still use the standard brakes, but not the system designed to prevent skidding in emergencies. Therefore, have it checked as soon as possible.

Severity: Moderate | Action: Drive cautiously and avoid hard braking

7. Coolant Temperature Warning Light

This warning sign is shaped like a thermometer over liquid. If this sign appears, your engine is likely overheating. 

If you continue to drive, it can harm your engine components. Our advice is to turn the engine off immediately to prevent permanent damage & save thousands in repair.

Severity: Critical | Action: Pull over immediately and turn off the engine

8. Airbag Warning Light

If you see a seated figure with a circle in front of them, it indicates an issue with your car’s airbag system. This could be critical for passenger safety as the airbags won’t deploy in a crash if the light stays on.

Severity: High | Action: Avoid risky driving and visit a service center

Depending on the car manufacturer, brand and model, you can notice a number of different warning signs. Check this Kia’s handbook for a list of warning and indicator icons with explanation.

What To Do When A Warning Light Appears?

There’s no saying when you encounter a warning light on your dashboard. It could happen when you start your car first thing in the morning or when you’re driving. 

In any case, here’s what you should do when a warning light pops up:

• Don’t panic. You don’t want to cause havoc, especially if you’re driving on a busy road.
• Check the color. Red means stop, yellow means caution.
• Consult your owner’s manual or look it up online. You could ask a friend if you’re unsure.
• Pull over safely if needed.
• Call roadside assistance or a mechanic if you can’t fix the issue.

How To Prevent Dashboard Warnings?

Your cars get sick too and need maintenance. If you take your car maintenance lightly, it can surprise you with these warning signs. We suggest scheduling regular vehicle maintenance to prevent dashboard warnings. 

Data suggests 69% of drivers delay their vehicle maintenance even after knowing it is due. That’s a mishap waiting to happen. 

Checking your tire pressure monthly is another great way to avoid unwanted stress and delays, especially during a long drive. 

Have a schedule for oil changes and fluid top-offs. Most importantly, don’t let your gas tank run out completely, & pay attention to small signs of wear.

Uncommon Dashboard Lights

Hybrid Battery Malfunction Light

I have only seen this light appear on hybrid vehicles and it indicates the hybrid battery malfunction. If it appears on an EV, it would mean the main battery has a malfunction.

Severity: High | Action: Stop driving and consult a technician

Eco Mode Sign

You can switch to eco mode if you want to use the battery for more miles and enhance fuel efficiency on your hybrid/electric vehicle. A green dashboard light appears with the text “ECO” when you switch to this mode.

It’s not a warning light but an indication. You’ll get slower acceleration in eco mode and save on your fuel. Switching it off will give you control of the speed again.

Severity: None | Action: None

Pedestrian Ahead Indicator

This indicator will turn on if you have a vehicle’s driver assistance feature and it detects a pedestrian or a cyclist ahead of your car. It’s a safety light that usually appears during a traffic stop near the pedestrian crossing.

Severity: Moderate to High | Action: Drive cautiously

Charging Indicator Light

The charging indicator appears when you’re charging your electric vehicle. While this indicator will look very different depending on the car model & brand, a blinking or red sign may indicate an issue with the power supply or connection.

Severity: Low to moderate | Action: Check charger or consult technician if issue persists

Key Low Battery Indicator

The Key Low Battery Indicator only appears for vehicles that have a Smart Key to alert the drivers to change the battery in the key.

Severity: Low | Action: Replace the key fob battery when possible

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the triangle warning sign mean?

The triangle warning sign is a Master Warning Light that alerts you to a general issue. For most cars, you can check the message center for details about the exact problem.

Can I drive my car with all the warning lights on?

The straight answer is no. If your dashboard has all the warning lights on simultaneously, there could be a serious electrical issue, a battery problem, or a failing alternator.

If you’re driving and see multiple warning lights flashing, pull over safely to have your vehicle inspected immediately.

What is the most important dashboard light?

The most critical dashboard lights include the Check Engine Light (when flashing), Brake Warning Light, Oil Pressure Light, and Coolant Temperature Light. These are potentially engine threats or could indicate an immediate safety concern.

Can I drive with the brake light on?

Do not drive if the brake light is on. Generally, the brake light should switch off when you release the parking brake. If the light stays on, it may signal low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a critical braking issue. It’s not safe to drive in this condition.

What is the symbol for daytime running lights?

The symbol for daytime running lights is a green headlight icon with lines indicating light beams. It means your vehicle’s daytime running lights are on to increase visibility.

Final Thoughts

Dashboard warning signs are designed to protect both you and your vehicle. I highly recommend you go through your owner’s manual to see if there are any dashboard signs that you’re not familiar with. When in doubt, don’t ignore it and consult your mechanic or visit a service center.