Your guide to common car dashboard symbols
Let’s decode 10 common car dashboard symbols and meanings
1. Check engine light
What it means: The check engine light is one of the most critical car dashboard symbols. It can be triggered by minor problems like a loose fuel cap, or more serious issues with your car’s engine or transmission.
What to do: If you spot the check engine light, have your vehicle inspected by a professional as soon as you can to avoid damage that could lead to expensive repairs. If the light starts flashing, it’s best to stop driving and get help immediately, as it usually points to a more urgent issue.
2. Oil pressure warning
What it means: If you spot this light, it means that your engine’s oil pressure is low, which could be caused by insufficient oil levels, a failing oil pump or an oil leak.
What to do: Pull over and turn off your engine immediately to avoid potential engine damage. Next, check your oil level. If it’s low, you’ll need to add more oil. If the light stays on after you top up your oil, or if you notice any unusual engine noises, don’t start or drive your vehicle until you have spoken with an expert mechanic.
3. Battery/charging system warning
What it means: This car dashboard symbol signals a problem with the charging system, which could be caused by a failing alternator, battery issues or a loose battery connection.
What to do: This is a great example of why warning lights are important in cars! A faulty charging system can leave you stranded with a dead battery, so it’s crucial to get your vehicle inspected by a mechanic immediately.
4. Brake warning light
What it means: The brake warning light can indicate several issues, from low brake fluid levels and worn brake pads to a problem with the brake system itself. It might also light up if the parking brake is engaged.
What to do: First, check whether your parking brake is engaged (and release it if you need to). If the light stays on, check the brake fluid level and, if it’s low, top it up. If the light stays on or if you notice any braking issues, don’t drive your vehicle until you’ve spoken to an expert.
5. Coolant temperature warning
What it means: Spotting this car dashboard symbol suggests your engine is overheating, which can be caused by low coolant levels, a failing radiator or a malfunctioning thermostat.
What to do: Find a safe spot to pull over and switch off your engine to help prevent damage. Let your engine cool down completely before checking the coolant level, and add more coolant if the levels are low. If the light stays on or you notice any coolant leaks, don’t start or drive your car until you’ve spoken with the team at your local Bridgestone store.
6. Tyre pressure monitoring system
What it means: This car dashboard light symbolises that one or more of your tyres could be under-inflated, which causes premature tyre wear, and impacts both your vehicle safety and fuel efficiency.
What to do: Check your tyre pressure and make sure it’s in line with your car model’s recommended level. If the light comes back on after adjusting the pressure, or if you think you might have a puncture, stop by your local Bridgestone store to get them checked.
7. ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning
What it means: The ABS warning light indicates a problem with your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system. This system helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking and can be critical for maintaining control in slippery conditions.
What to do: If this light comes on, your regular braking system may still function, but it’s important to have the ABS checked by a mechanic for proper operation and safety.
8. Transmission temperature warning
What it means: This car dashboard light signals that your transmission is overheating, which can be caused by excessive and prolonged strain or low transmission fluid levels.
What to do: Pull over and let your car’s transmission cool down. Check the transmission fluid level, and add more fluid if you need to. If the light stays on or you start to experience transmission problems, get in touch with a professional for help.
9. Airbag Warning Light
What it means: The airbag warning light points to a problem with the airbag system, which could affect its deployment during a collision.
What to do: If this light is on, get your airbag system inspected by a professional. Your safety could be compromised if any airbag parts are functioning incorrectly.
10. Service vehicle soon
What it means: This car dashboard symbol’s a sign that your vehicle is due for routine maintenance, or that there’s a non-specific issue that needs attention.
What to do: Check your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and book any necessary services with a professional to keep your car running smoothly. Keeping up with your regular services helps prevent bigger (expensive) issues in the future.
Still confused by your car dashboard symbols and meanings?
Car dashboard symbols are your car’s way of telling you about issues that need your attention. Visit your local Bridgestone store and chat with the friendly team to find out what your car needs. Each store uses specialised equipment to connect with cars and provide more detailed information than dashboard lights can communicate.
Frequently asked questions about car dashboard symbols
How long do dashboard lights last?
Dashboard symbols will stay illuminated until you’ve addressed the issue triggering it. Often, they need the attention of an expert mechanic to be resolved.
What dashboard lights require attention?
While some car dashboard symbols are more urgent than others, they all require your attention to help prevent damage to your vehicle. Orange or amber lights mean that you should investigate a problem as soon as possible, whereas red lights are a sign to stop your car immediately and contact an expert mechanic.
Why are warning lights important in cars?
Cars use dashboard symbols to alert their drivers to issues impacting occupant safety and vehicle performance. Ignoring them can lead to danger or more complex problems that are expensive to fix in the future.