Most common car dashboard symbols explained

Want help interpreting the dashboard warning lights that can appear in your car? This guide has you covered.

Modern cars are complex machines with a range of built-in monitoring systems designed to keep everything running smoothly. The symbols on your dashboard are there to alert you when something isn’t functioning correctly, and the severity of the issue is often indicated by colour.

Green light typically means everything is working as it should. Amber or yellow lights indicate that something needs attention sooner rather than later, while red lights signal a problem that requires immediate action.

In this handy guide, we’ll explain what the various car dashboard warning lights mean and what to do if one pops up in your vehicle.

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Check engine

This warning could pop up for a number of reasons. This ranges from minor issues such as a sensor malfunction to rather serious problems like damaged electric or mechanical components. In some cases, you may experience reduced power, often referred to as ‘limp mode’.

You can often reset the warning light by turning off the car, waiting 30 seconds and then turning it on again. If it persists, you should get the engine checked by a professional promptly.

Engine temperature and coolant level

This warning light shows that your car’s engine is either running hot, or your coolant level is too low. An overheating engine could be connected to a faulty water pump, a blocked coolant hose or broken radiator, while low coolant could be connected to a leak.

If this light comes on, pull over to the side of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so and turn off the car. Don’t attempt to open the radiator or expansion tank cap while the car is hot.

Also never drive for extended periods while the car is overheating as this will blow the head gasket and potentially damage your car’s internals.

Oil level

Shaped sort of like a watering can, this symbol means that the oil level in your car is below the required level. This can happen if the oil pump is damaged, but it’s most likely just using a bit of oil and requires a top up.

When this symbol comes on, stop at your earliest convenience and top up the oil. Older cars will have a dipstick which will show where the oil level is at, while you’ll be able to view this on your infotainment system in newer cars.

If the oil level keeps dropping regularly you will need to book your car in for a service to diagnose the issue.

Brake system

The brake system warning light can come on for reasons such as low brake fluid or damaged brake lines. The brake pedal may feel spongy or hard, depending on the problem.

This issue needs immediate attention. You should avoid braking hard or driving at higher speeds until you can find a safe place to stop. Have the car towed to a service centre even if the brakes feel fine.

Battery charge

This means that your car’s battery or charging system may be faulty. You may simply need a fresh battery, but it could also be a problem with the alternator (this charges the battery while driving), or your wiring.

You can continue to drive until you reach a service station. But if the car struggled to turn over the last time you started it you should avoid switching it off until you can stop in a secure location.

Avoid using auxiliary systems such as the radio and electric windows if you suspect that your battery is flat or not charging.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

Diesel cars have a filter installed in the exhaust system to reduce harmful emissions, this can get clogged up and cause the DPF warning light to illuminate.

Driving at motorway speeds for at least 30 minutes will give the system time to burn off the excess soot in the filter. If this doesn’t fix the issue, you should book your car in for a service.

Tyre pressure

Most modern cars come equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that will light up when it detects a drop in air pressure. This could be because of a puncture or a slow leak due to a cracked rim or faulty valve.

When this happens, you should stop and check for signs of a puncture. If there’s damage and it’s not too severe, you may be able to fill the tyre with enough air to get you to your nearest repair centre. If not, you can replace the offending tyre with a spare if your car is equipped with one.

If you have run-flat tyres the sidewalls will not look deflated, and you’ll be able to drive slowly for a short distance to a tyre repair centre.

Traction control/stability control

This light will flicker when the car loses traction on a slippery surface. It may be the case that you’re driving too fast for the prevailing conditions and you may feel a tug on the steering wheel or the power cutting out and then returning.

Slowing down and avoiding sudden braking or acceleration can reduce this from happening.

Airbag warning

If this pops up, the airbag system or the seatbelt pretensioner system may have a malfunction. This may prevent the airbag from deploying in the event of an accident.

This light may either display as a symbol of an airbag (represented by a round circle close to an icon of a person wearing a seatbelt), or you may simply see the letters ‘SRS’, short for supplemental restraint system – another term for airbags.

In the event this comes on, book your car in to have it checked out. You can drive with this warning light illuminated but the safest approach is to have a professional repair the issue promptly.

What if a warning light has come in that’s not in this list?

Many modern cars will have dozens of warning lights for advanced driver aids and unique features that you may not see in this list. So, if you see an unfamiliar symbol light up, your best bet is to check the owner’s manual for a comprehensive list of your particular vehicle’s dashboard symbols.

You can also call your local dealership or a helpline. These numbers should be in your car’s handbook or can be found on the relevant manufacturer’s website.

Remember that many dashboard lights will illuminate when you start the car and should go out once you drive off. But if some symbols stay illuminated, it may be a good idea to have that particular issue checked.

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Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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