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The most common car dashboard symbols and their meanings

10/12/2024

6 min read

The first time I got into the driver’s seat of a car, I was completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of doohickeys, bits, and bobs to keep track of. While I’ve gotten way better at handl>ing myself behind the wheel now, I still occasionally get blindsided whenever I get jumpscared in the middle of my drive with a car dashboard sign I’ve never seen before.

To help out anyone who’s had this same issue (and to drill these into my head, too), we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common car dashboard signs and their meanings. A couple of handy rules of thumb to always keep in mind are:

1. If a dashboard panel symbol flashes for a few seconds before turning off, the vehicle is operating as normal. You only need to start worrying if the car dashboard sign remains lit

2. Always pay attention to colour! Blue symbols are just for information, and require no follow-up. Amber or Green symbols mean that your car requires non-urgent attention. Red car dashboard signs are urgent! Whenever possible, pull over and stop driving as soon as possible once you notice a red card dashboard sign.

Symbol	Meaning
	The Brake Warning light is turned on when the parking brake is engaged, or when there’s an issue with the vehicle’s braking system. If it’s turned on while the parking brake is fully disengaged, this is your sign to get your vehicle checked out by a professional.
	This lamp icon straight out of Aladdin is the Oil Pressure Warning Light. It comes on when there’s an issue with your vehicle oil system. Your vehicle might be running out of oil, or facing some other issue with its oil systems. The oil system is responsible for making sure the engine’s parts are lubricated for a smooth drive. It’s a good idea to stop driving as soon as possible once you see this car dashboard sign come on.
	If you see the Engine Temperature Warning Light turn on, chances are that your coolant levels are running low. Top up your engine coolant and be sure to check that the cap is properly secured and that there are no leaks. An overheated engine causes lots of problems down the road, so be sure to keep an eye on this.
	The Airbag Indicator Light comes on when something’s wrong with one or all of your vehicle’s airbags. The airbag system is critical for ensuring you remain safe in the event of a crash, so be sure to get this checked out immediately!
	When the Battery Alert Light is on, there’s most likely a problem with your vehicle’s battery system. Whether it’s a damaged cable, a faulty charging system, or some other kind of electrical fault, you’re best off seeking professional help as soon as possible. Without a properly functioning battery, your car’s motors can’t start, making driving impossible.
	There’s a number of things that can trigger the Transmission Temperature Warning Light. The transmission system makes sure that your car’s gears can change as needed. From a lack of transmission fluid to a worn-down transmission system, it’s a good idea to get your vehicle to a repair shop as soon as possible if this light stays on.
	The Tire Pressure Warning Light comes on when there’s a problem with one or more of your tires, or their associated sensors. Driving with low or high pressure causes unnecessary damage to your tires, so be sure to check it when this light comes on. Most petrol stations have air pump kiosks, so head to a nearby one if you’ve got tire pressure issues. The car’s required tire pressure is usually located on a sticker by the side of the driver’s door.
	Many newer vehicles contain a traction control system. When your Traction Control Light is on, one of your wheels may be spinning at a different speed than the others due to the rain or any other factors that might cause the road to be slippery. In these cases, your brakes will automatically be engaged until regular driving resumes, so you’ll be able to drive as per normal. Just make sure not to get too careless on a slippery road!
	Engines are finicky things. Whether it’s a piston misfire, a cracked gas cap, or any number of issues, the Check Engine light can come on for any number of reasons. Whatever it is, you’ll need to get a professional to check your engine, as any problems that arise from this could potentially damage it beyond repair.
	The Anti-Lock Braking System prevents your vehicle from sliding on the road whenever you slam the brakes. When the ABS Warning Light turns on, your brakes will still function largely as per normal, but you’ll have trouble making emergency stops, so get this checked out when possible.
	The Fuel Indicator Light means… Well. You know. Time to head to your nearest petrol station! If you’re a GetGo user, you needn’t fret too hard, since refuels are on us!
	If you’re driving an automatic vehicle, you’ll see the Brake Pedal Light come on once your vehicle starts. Once you’ve moved the gear lever to drive or reverse while pressing down on the brakes, your vehicle will shift out of parking mode, and this light will turn off.

(Photos from: Virginia Tire & Auto)

Taking note of relevant car dashboard signs and keeping your vehicle well-maintained is absolutely vital to driving safely. But if you’ve already got enough going on in your life without worrying about keeping up with a slew of tire replacements and other maintenance issues, there’s an alternative out there for those seeking an easier drive:

GetGo meticulously services and maintains each and every one of its vehicles for you as part of the carsharing experience. What’s more, even the little things such as refuelling are on us!

If you’re curious about carsharing as a more accessible and convenient alternative to owning a vehicle, why not read up to find out if it’s right for you?

(Featured photo from: BMTech)

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