How to Read the Dashboard Lights

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The dashboard, and particularly the instrument panel, represent the easiest way a vehicle talks back to its driver, allowing him to stay up to date with the status of the car and provide him with prior notice on potential mechanical problems. The dashboard items followed the same evolution trend as the whole car, migrating from standard light bulbs to more attractive and efficient LEDs or completely-digitalized dashboard components.

Take for example BMW's head-up display, a special technology developed by the German company which projects important information such as speed, fuel consumption or the tachometer straight on the windshield. Getting back to the instrument clusters, their number increased significantly once the car manufacturers developed new technologies regarding safety, engine management or miscellaneous car-related equipment. But more importantly, these tiny lights tracking the operation of the car can provide critical information that could protect you, your passengers and the other drivers on the road.

The number of instrument clusters is huge, mostly due to the fact that most car manufacturers used basic symbols and personalized them for their own models although we all agree that standard ones would be useful for all drivers, no matter the car they own. That's why we've decided to create a list of the commonest instrument panels used by different carmakers around the world, although it could be easily expanded to hundreds.

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1. ABS warning light – it is turned on every time there's something wrong with the Anti-lock Brake System. Note that the ABS symbol is activated once the drive starts the engine but it's automatically turned off after a few seconds.
2. Low fuel notification – this panel is switched on if the fuel level gets very low and refuel is required.
3. Seat belt reminder – the symbol appears and remains active as long as the engine is started and the seat belt remains unfastened; depending on the car manufacturer and car model, the seat belt reminder is combined with an audio notification.
4. Electrical problem warning – this light warns you that there's a problem with the electrical system of the car.
5. Brake system alert – the notification is powered on if the ECU detects a problem to the brake system
6. Warning light – it signals an unidentified problem with your car; it usually requires the car to be serviced.
7. Child seat indicator – if turned on, it informs you that the standardized child safety seat is attached
8. Tire pressure monitor – the warning is turned on in case of low tire pressure which could raise the fuel consumption or affect the grip.
9. Air filter – usually installed on the center console but also found on the dashboard, this light informs the driver that a malfunction was detected at the passenger compartment air filter
10. Front airbag – the light monitors the front airbag and, in case it is turned on, signals a problem with it; it usually requires professional assistance.
11. Side airbag – same as the front airbag but intended for the side airbag
12. Child seat – this symbol informs the driver that there may be a problem with the rear-mounted child seat; similar to number 7 but used by different manufacturers

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13. Fog beams indicator – it is activated and remains on once the driver turns on the fog beams
14. Windshield wash – the notification appears once the windshield wipers are activated
15. Master lighting switch
16. Rear window defrost – pretty self-explanatory, it is turned on once the driver presses the rear window defrosting button
17. Child seat warning – similar to the other child seat notifications, it warns the driver that the child seat may be wrongly installed
18. Brake fluid malfunction – rarely installed on the dashboard, it unveils a problem in the brake fluid recipient
19. Battery warning – if this light is turned on while driving, it reveals a malfunction concerning the battery charging system
20. Child safety lock – if lighted on, the symbol shows you that the child safety lock has been activated
21. Emergency indicator – the notification is activated once the driver pushes the emergency button
22. Cruise control – this light is turned on if the cruise control system is activated; note that it may differ by brand and car model.
23. Windshield defrost – similar to rear window defrost but especially intended for windshield
24. Powertrain malfunction – if on, this light shows that the powertrain has been damaged and the car needs to be serviced as soon as possible.

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25. Slip indicator – mostly installed on luxury cars, the slip indicator unveils that the car may lose grip due to difficult driving conditions
26. Open doors indicator – this symbol is usually turned on just after the driver starts the engine and informs him that one or more doors are closed incorrectly
27. Anti-theft system – exclusively installed on Ford models, this symbol flashes once the Securilock Anti-theft technology has been enabled
28. Electronic Throttle Control light – briefly enabled when the driver starts the engine, the indicator shows a malfunction in the Electronic Throttle Control system
29. AWD – with a pretty suggestive name, this panel is lighted on once the all-wheel drive system is enabled
30. ESP/BAS light – similar to the ABS indicator, but especially installed to inform the driver about a potential problem with the Electronic Stability Program technology
31. Overdrive indicator – it shows the driver that the overdrive system has been turned off
32. Turn signals – surely the most known instrument panels, the turn signals are activated once the driver changes direction and uses the signal lever
33. Temperature warning light – it warns the driver of the possibility of engine overheating and usually demands the driver to stop the vehicle
34. OBD Indicator – member of the Onboard Diagnostics, this indicators reveals a problem to the engine or to the gas emissions and required the car to be serviced.
35. High beam light – it is turned on once the driver activates the high beam mode of the headlights
36. Oil pressure warning – this notification is turned on if the ECU detects a problem with the oil pressure; the driver is usually recommended to stop the vehicle and service it as soon as possible.

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On 13 January 2009 at 01:51 UTC, Swaikat said:

those tips were so helpful. thanks

On 18 January 2009 at 14:44 UTC, James Field said:

You missed out the lambda sensor for Diesels. (it's a curly spring-like symbol).

Also the battery charge problem symbol (a batt. with + and - symbols)

On 24 May 2009 at 15:30 UTC, Christella said:

I have a Ford F150 that has a symbol similar to No. 27 but instead of a lock it has something similar to a screw-like figure. What is this symbol an indication for?

On 26 May 2009 at 05:41 UTC, nyaku said:

I have a Toyota Fielder 2001 and last night a symbol similar to number 8 lit up. Instead of the exclaimation mark, there are 2 arrows pointing to a dot in the centre. please somebody help

On 27 May 2009 at 12:15 UTC, shane plasebo said:

This chart is helpful but some warning lights are missing in this chart. Damn !!!

On 1 July 2009 at 00:22 UTC, Carrie said:

My brother has a 2004 Grand Prix and a light that looks like a sideways teardrop with a line on the top and one by the "bubble" end of the teardrop. Any idea what this could be for?

On 6 July 2009 at 15:27 UTC, Richard said:

Was wondering if anyone knew of a site like this one showing the meaning of the symbols but I have japanese domestic Nissan UD and the lights are in japanese.

On 15 July 2009 at 01:35 UTC, Kirama said:

I have Suzuki Escudo Model 1994, please can post the meaning of the dashboard lights for Suzuki. There is one light which is not above, it is on and gives me a restless drives.

On 22 July 2009 at 11:30 UTC, corey said:

extremely useful thanks a lot

On 5 August 2009 at 14:21 UTC, brian said:

the screw insted of a lock means to check your gas cap

On 12 August 2009 at 09:53 UTC, Jet Li said:

this helped me so much. i was driving the car around after having a massive accident and by reading this i now know how dangerous it was all that time i was driving the car, the engine could have blown up.

On 18 August 2009 at 14:48 UTC, da pilot said:

For those who might not know what's lambda sensor.

An oxygen sensor, or lambda sensor, is an electronic device that measures the proportion of oxygen (O2) in the gas or liquid being analyzed.

The sensor does not actually measure oxygen concentration, but rather the amount of oxygen needed to completely oxidize any remaining combustibles in the exhaust gas. Rich mixture causes an oxygen demand. This demand causes a voltage to build up, due to transportation of oxygen ions through the sensor layer. Lean mixture causes low voltage, since there is an oxygen excess.

Drive safe and stay alive ;)

On 22 August 2009 at 19:46 UTC, kkk said:

good

On 28 September 2009 at 06:02 UTC, Jananjaya said:

Very useful tips. Thanks!

On 11 October 2009 at 03:32 UTC, Avib said:

Thanks for the efforts :)

On 14 October 2009 at 12:27 UTC, teja said:

i liked this suggestion. please give me more details about the project on dash board display

On 19 October 2009 at 08:32 UTC, mike said:

I have a Toyota Fielder 2001 and last night a symbol similar to number 8 lit up. Instead of the exclaimation mark, there are 2 arrows pointing to a dot in the centre. please somebody help

On 26 October 2009 at 04:45 UTC, madu said:

i cant read my benz 300 vboot baded dashboard light well, the one that has to do with brakelight and oil.

On 10 November 2009 at 20:36 UTC, triniguy said:

Mike, did you get an answer to your question ?The same thing just happened to me . Could you let me know what that symbol meant.

On 17 November 2009 at 13:25 UTC, martin said:

what does symbol number 4 mean an electrical problem ?

On 29 November 2009 at 22:13 UTC, boy said:

dang this web helped SO MUCH! thanks God!!

On 22 December 2009 at 10:26 UTC, JASON said:

the number 8 symbol is that the same alot of cars . for tire pressure problems

On 25 December 2009 at 06:54 UTC, Nicole said:

Hi, i've got a 1996 TOYOTA CELICA with 'a car looking symbol with its back light on' all the time.it didnt happen before, so i wonder what it means and how should i do to fix it~~thanks

On 6 January 2010 at 03:58 UTC, baba said:

the number 10 symbol is always lit up, it wont go away, help please.

On 17 January 2010 at 02:52 UTC, Geniebean said:

Phew! It's just a tire pressure warning. I had no idea. Thanks for this!!

On 21 January 2010 at 12:34 UTC, FP said:

I found this tips very helpful.I have been worried because I had no clue about what the problem with my car is. Thanks a million

On 21 January 2010 at 21:50 UTC, DJ-D said:

thanks so much this site helped me out a lot... thank you

On 1 February 2010 at 04:34 UTC, john said:

is 34 the same on a mercedes clk?

On 7 February 2010 at 19:55 UTC, kerry said:

Very helpful site...thanks

On 9 February 2010 at 03:01 UTC, hazem said:

i would like to thank you soo much for the useful info. i was looking for that indicators at many websites . thanx again .

On 9 February 2010 at 15:17 UTC, Waqas said:

Fantastic piece of information. thanks

On 16 February 2010 at 22:18 UTC, Rebeeca said:

The symbol that lit up on my dashboard of a 2005 chevy trailblazer was of a oil can like number 36 with a wrench beside it. It only comes on when first started then goes off. Checked the oil and the level is fine. Just started today. Wondering if you can give me any help for what it means

On 25 February 2010 at 00:45 UTC, Xwilson said:

My dash board for a fielder X grade 2003 is showing some light which looks like two inverted head lumps at the top right hand side but smaller can any one tell me the meaning of this.

On 26 February 2010 at 04:58 UTC, julz said:

no idea what my symbol means - a car with curved arrows going out of it towards ground ?? land rover diesel - HELP please x

On 3 March 2010 at 17:01 UTC, Sri said:

This is very helpful..... I was searching for this guide since 45 mins....

Thanks.

On 30 March 2010 at 01:33 UTC, nrk1in said:

Believe me I spent 2 hours searching for some warning signs that i needed to know...only this web page helped me..I actually printed out this web page for future references...Thanks a lot

On 30 March 2010 at 07:29 UTC, gikuhi said:

Thankx, very useful indeed!

On 7 April 2010 at 05:34 UTC, JILL said:

thanks a lot! These are really practical tips for green hand.

On 11 April 2010 at 20:25 UTC, tbaby said:

i recently just go by tank dropped to check my float in my gas tank because the gas gauge was stuck on E. Now the check engine light is consistantly on "yellow". what does this mean? what do i need to do?

On 12 April 2010 at 15:40 UTC, help said:

would number 34 happen if your gas cap was not screwed on tight? if so how long will it take to go off?

On 14 April 2010 at 01:15 UTC, donald said:

what is the meaning of no 24???

On 15 April 2010 at 19:53 UTC, Lis said:

Thanks so much for this - i've been searching the net for ages trying to find ANYONE who can help me diagnose the warning light on my dash. Thanks - great site :)

On 16 April 2010 at 12:54 UTC, tom said:

i have a nissan micra,there are 2 temperture gauges one red and one blue....whats the blue one for???

On 17 April 2010 at 08:15 UTC, donald said:

my mecchanic changed the filters and oil of my ford focus 16 tdci 2006,but still the lights on my dash ,the no 24 and 34 still on and still less power,altogh its improves a little bit.any help??

On 19 April 2010 at 23:00 UTC, Cora said:

I have a 1992 BMW 525I. This afternoon the "antilock" red light light is on. What does that mean? Thank you for any help you can give me.

On 22 April 2010 at 11:01 UTC, fon said:

I found this site extremely helpful and it saved me about 150.00 which i would have had to pay a dealership just to tell me my tire pressure is low. Thanks a lot.

On 22 April 2010 at 11:04 UTC, fon said:

excellent site. Very helpful. saved me about 167.00 which I would have had to pay a dealership to tell me my tire pressure is low.

On 28 April 2010 at 20:01 UTC, Donsarpong. said:

Thanks. Good synopsis of dashboard lights.

On 11 May 2010 at 19:12 UTC, Grateful gal said:

Thanks! This is really helpful.

On 18 May 2010 at 19:56 UTC, thankful said:

very helpful....spent a lot of time looking for these symbols..............Thanks

On 26 May 2010 at 05:29 UTC, Kathryn said:

I have a sprinter van and non of the above match, what is the tank with what looks like water in bottom, with an open ended pipe going in on Left and a capped pipe on the top right? I thought it was coolent?

On 26 May 2010 at 20:22 UTC, cronus404 said:

thank you so much!!! I lost my manual and had no idea what symbol #8 was. Ive been looking for hours and this is the first site i could find it on. Thank You Again

On 1 June 2010 at 16:13 UTC, pnut mts said:

thank u it took so long to find meanings of the symbols kmt

On 8 June 2010 at 10:23 UTC, andy said:

33 INTERMITTENTLY COMING AND GOING

On 10 June 2010 at 04:47 UTC, silvia said:

i have a honda beat, the square box with squiggly lines above flashes on and off, what does this mean and what do i need to do

On 22 June 2010 at 06:44 UTC, Motiul said:

Thanks. what is OBD?

On 24 June 2010 at 02:11 UTC, elec said:

Very useful article. thanks for sharing.

On 24 June 2010 at 22:50 UTC, BMR said:

I drive a Pontiac Grand AM and there is a light on my dash next to the "E" on the fuel gauge. It looks like a box with an arrow inside it, with the arrow pointing at what appears to be a liquid in the bottom of the rectangle. What does this mean and what do I need to do to fix this?

On 27 June 2010 at 18:22 UTC, lawrence said:

can you explain why symbol 24 has been coming on, and what needs to be done. thanx.

On 28 June 2010 at 12:03 UTC, vishi said:

thnx alot

On 9 July 2010 at 19:42 UTC, Tru said:

Mine isn't on there. It's for a doosan forklift. No help

On 17 July 2010 at 19:06 UTC, Seagrms said:

Thanks soo much ... surely it is of gr8 help ...

On 25 July 2010 at 22:18 UTC, jan said:

Very helpful website since I am renting a car and the low tire pressure light came on. What a relief that it was not something more serious.

On 26 July 2010 at 02:49 UTC, kaiser sosae said:

thanks guys for these explanations.
I need some help anyway. I have a BMW 3 series 318i. Yesterday a symbol lit up on the dashboard. It was that triangle in number 6 with an arrow going around it in an anticlockwise direction but not completely around the triangle. What does this mean?
BR

On 29 July 2010 at 03:56 UTC, mwas said:

Excelent stuff here.
I have a toyota corolla 2003 that I bought from Japan two months ago. Yesterday I got the no.8 symbol on my dash board and I was scared to hell. after searching the internet I found this site and there I new it was tire presure and true by morning it was a flat tire!

On 2 August 2010 at 12:06 UTC, LacyJ said:

AWESOME.... I have been looking everywhere for this!

On 3 August 2010 at 11:57 UTC, fash said:

my car was showing the warning light that is in no 34. the explanation is that it should be serviced, what type of service does it require.
Has anyone encounter this type of problem before and how was it resolved.

On 4 August 2010 at 05:30 UTC, Matt said:

Very well explained and laid out. Saved me a trip to the dealership!!

On 17 August 2010 at 16:35 UTC, Melissa said:

Finally, someone to answer my questions! This really helped. Thank You.

On 17 August 2010 at 21:07 UTC, _jan said:

Been searching for a meaningful website such as this... thanks a lot for the help.
God Bless!

Going to have a nissan sentra EX saloon, my 1st car (3rd owner though) and i have no idea what those lights meant from the dashboard till now. XD sorry, noob here when it comes to cars hehe. thanks again.

On 22 August 2010 at 17:49 UTC, scion said:

Thanks a million for this. I have a symbol similar to no. 8on my Toyota Sienna but with two centre-facing arrows in the middle instead of an exclamation.What could it mean?

On 31 August 2010 at 17:26 UTC, runny said:

my car has number 34....wat does it mean?why did it happen in first place?

On 4 September 2010 at 07:35 UTC, Joseph said:

@ BMR: That's the low coolant warning light.

On 15 September 2010 at 20:38 UTC, Gina said:

Very useful. Answered my questions. Thanks.

On 19 September 2010 at 11:10 UTC, KHalid said:

my car (Toyota X Fielder 2003) has number 34....what does it mean? I have stopped driving after that. What should I do now ? Is it major problem ? Should I go to the toyota service center immediately or not ? Please help me.

On 19 September 2010 at 16:00 UTC, lll said:

meaning of the symbol P/S on a toyota corolla 1.5 2001

On 12 October 2010 at 16:44 UTC, grand am said:

I drive a Pontiac Grand AM It looks like a box with an arrow inside it, with the arrow pointing at what appears to be a liquid in the bottom of the rectangle. What does this mean?

On 13 October 2010 at 16:59 UTC, Sumari said:

Thank you so much! This was very helpful. I can now understand some of the uncommon dashboard indicaters that are not familiar to me.

On 13 October 2010 at 17:06 UTC, Kinto-ringa said:

This does not have all the correct symbols. I do believe there should be 39 symbols, not to mention the most common and important ones are not listed. Please do fix this.

On 23 October 2010 at 21:24 UTC, mom of 2! said:

Please help! number 34 came on and i duno what to do i cant afford to take it in and have to b to work on monday... did any1 figure out a bit more detail on the promble PLEASE PLEASE help

On 25 October 2010 at 13:26 UTC, noel said:

no 24 on a ford focus 16 tdci what it means

On 26 October 2010 at 00:28 UTC, Njogs said:

I have a toyota fielder and recently, a warning sign similar to number 8 appeared on the dashboard but instead of the exclamation sign, it had two arrows pointing to a dot at the centre. Kindly explain the meaning of this sign.

On 26 October 2010 at 11:22 UTC, Pulgalouka said:

Excellent info, thanks a lot

On 27 October 2010 at 00:27 UTC, Prince said:

This has been extremely helpful....Thank you very much

On 27 October 2010 at 00:36 UTC, Prince said:

I drive a Mercedes E 230 2007 model year, Gulf specifications car bought here in the uae. I have clocked around 127000 kms. The last service was at 120000kms.

warning #34 has been "on" for the last 48 hours, and the next service is not due for another 3000 kms.....is this somethign that needs immediate attention or can i stretch it for 3000kms? I drive around 300 kms every day on the highway at high speeds (140 to 160km/hr). Any suggestions will be most welcome.

On 29 October 2010 at 18:24 UTC, smokingjules said:

Hi, I've got a 1996 TOYOTA CELICA with 'a car looking symbol with its back light on' all the time.it didn't happen before, what it means thanks

On 31 October 2010 at 16:15 UTC, stockport toffee said:

I had my 55 plate focus serviced on Thursday and then noticed Saturday no 34 showing!! what can it be 48 hours after service?

On 1 November 2010 at 15:18 UTC, stockport toffee said:

I had a new Altinator fitted late July and its now malfunctioning getting done tomorrow.Thankfully under warranity!! thats what the 34 was!

On 14 November 2010 at 13:48 UTC, Leo said:

Very informative. My daughter had a concern about a warning light coming on, I tried to find information online "with no success" until I actually found this sight with pictures and their meanings. Thank you.

On 18 November 2010 at 10:41 UTC, Dada said:

Help!
I drive a Hyundai Elantra 2008 GT. I have my AIRBAG lights on( no airbag deployed but had a frontal collision) and just a few hours ago a CAR symbol in orange colour appeared on the dash. Please help.

On 19 November 2010 at 10:56 UTC, PHILIP said:

I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE 2001 FIELDER. I DRIVE A TRUENO. SOMEONE NEEDS TO ASSIST.

On 22 November 2010 at 03:24 UTC, dinai said:

very useful tips thank you

On 24 November 2010 at 06:41 UTC, nyaku said:

I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE 2001 FIELDER. I DRIVE A TRUENO. SOMEONE NEEDS TO ASSIST.

It is the tyre pressure icon. Pressure in one (or more) tyres is low or you're running on those small spare tyres.

On 1 December 2010 at 17:21 UTC, Patti said:

I have a VW Jetta. A light came on that looks like a snow flake. I looked through the book and can't find what it means.

On 7 December 2010 at 10:45 UTC, Shah said:

I have number 34 on my dashboard for the past 2 days. What do i need to do. Can i drive for another week or so? Someone please advise.

On 8 December 2010 at 18:43 UTC, Joe said:

Fewf, its winter time and my tire pressure signal turned on, what would I do without the guy who made this site!

On 16 December 2010 at 07:00 UTC, stevemax said:

Very handy especially with the japanesse vehicles full of dash board signs.

On 21 December 2010 at 21:22 UTC, Steve said:

So helpful, even my Dodge manual says nothing about the dashboard info

On 7 January 2011 at 09:25 UTC, ariel said:

thank you,very useful tips

On 16 January 2011 at 23:26 UTC, Umashankar said:

Very good & useful

On 3 February 2011 at 07:49 UTC, nkamo said:

i have a sign similar to no.8 , but with 2 arrows pointing to the centre.wat does it mean?pliz help

On 7 February 2011 at 10:19 UTC, brian said:

Hi,
l recently bought a 2001 nissan x-trail from japan and number 34 keeps showing,what could be the problem and for how long can l drive it before servicing it?PLEASE HELP!

On 16 February 2011 at 05:57 UTC, MacDav said:

Thank you for such informations. Quite helpful.

On 16 February 2011 at 15:03 UTC, john said:

Hi can anyone tell me why the red "stop" light is activated on my dashboard its a 2000 lagguna

On 17 February 2011 at 09:11 UTC, Katy said:

Hi, is symbol number 34 serious? it came on yesterday and has not gone off at all since. Thank you Katy.....

ive got a 2001 Toyota Celica.

On 21 February 2011 at 08:45 UTC, Shejama said:

It is really good.We can learn about the symbols and we can take actions according to it

On 21 February 2011 at 09:15 UTC, Ryan said:

I looked everywhere trying to find exactly this: Diagrams with explinations and finally found this. Thanks so much for making it so simple and easy to understand.

On 21 February 2011 at 18:51 UTC, Bart said:

Good info to use when not in the car.
I will always check my car's manual

On 26 February 2011 at 21:12 UTC, arsenio said:

The sigal M had appear in my toyota ipum control panel. What does it means?

On 6 March 2011 at 13:10 UTC, Maverick said:

Hi
I have suzuki Cervo and it shows the symbol 24 (powertrain malfunction). The sign is not permanent but it do appear after sometimes. Is it something serious?? can u recommend some remedial measures or any suggestions coz i dont have its user manual.
Regards!!

On 8 March 2011 at 02:56 UTC, commy21 said:

have a 99 holden commadore v8, and number 34 comes up but it has a lightning bolt symbol in the middle. what does this mean?

On 8 March 2011 at 14:22 UTC, tony said:

where can i get manual for a bmw 520 2.1 petrol automatic year 2003.What is the significance of an intermittent symbol on dashboard of a triangle almost surrounded by a long line ending as an arrow at the base of triangle

On 11 March 2011 at 11:37 UTC, Hugh Christiansen said:

I have a 2001 honda accord dash shows 4 doors open and "brake lamps" is lit up and car won't start why?

On 11 April 2011 at 04:06 UTC, riff said:

usefull info but I can't fine some signs here

On 21 April 2011 at 01:42 UTC, Primo said:

I have a gmc envoy 2005 with a light on the dash that has a little frame of a car and the two front wheels are aiming to the right. Theres also a wrench, the size of the mini car frame, to the left of it. What does it mean. Please answer, thankyou.

On 16 May 2011 at 14:26 UTC, Danny Dew said:

Very helpful. Thanks.

On 22 May 2011 at 08:34 UTC, Daniel said:

thanks a ton, this really helped me out a lot, thanks again

On 24 May 2011 at 04:15 UTC, bmw car said:

thanks a bundle very useful and easy to know as i have a bmw and it is fast

On 27 May 2011 at 00:17 UTC, rbkia said:

I drive a Lexus 330 2004. there is a light on the dashboard that looks like a car and as if lights are on in the back. At first i thought it was a warning about one of my back lights were out but as i looked in the back all my lights are working. what could the light on the dashboard mean.

On 31 May 2011 at 14:01 UTC, Sandy said:

1993 MB CE 300. Light is a circle with three dashes on each side. Anyone know what that means? THX

On 7 June 2011 at 04:07 UTC, v'dasgak mysteriser said:

thanks a lot really useful and easy to know and read thank you

On 8 June 2011 at 08:41 UTC, Dianne said:

Thanks. But I have a Toyota RAV 4 which has a symbol of car, viewed from above with the front down and showing headlights on. It is on all the time, reagardless of whether or not headlights are on. Can't figure out what it is. We live in Tanzania and got the car second hand from Japan and it came without a manual.

On 22 June 2011 at 08:53 UTC, Jessica said:

Number 34 is on in my 2004 F150. My boyfriend took it to get a battery yesterday and they gave him a 66 but told him it needs a 35. Could that be making the light be on? It wasn't on before that.

On 1 July 2011 at 19:33 UTC, frank said:

04chevy avalanche,selector lite for gear postion stays on, please advise.

On 31 July 2011 at 14:33 UTC, dinai said:

very useful . thank you.

On 2 August 2011 at 03:46 UTC, Sancho said:

hie guys.i have a Toyota Corolla xe saloon-automatic.last week i serviced my car with a local garage. after the oil change,filter,brake pads,plugs etc a symbol similar to nummber 8 started appearing.instead of the exclamation mark,there are two(2) small arrows pointing to a dot in the centre.please help,wats the hell is this.my tyre pressure is fine i checked all that.i hate symbols on dashboards that i dont understand.thank you in advance

On 7 August 2011 at 16:54 UTC, T.T said:

TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT CAME ON DID NOT HAVE A CLUE UNTIL NOW...PRAYER HAS BEEN ANSWERED!

On 15 August 2011 at 20:30 UTC, aaron said:

my indicator for tire pressure being low has two arrows in the middle pointing to the left and right. Does that mean the tire pressure is low on both sides of my Toyota Sienna? Pls let me know.....thanks

On 23 August 2011 at 04:01 UTC, paraisabin said:

so helpful!! Damn i was driving all this time with lots of danger to me my friends and others on the road.
Gotta do the servicing soon..
Thanks a lot!

On 23 August 2011 at 13:25 UTC, HMNB said:

My Toyota Belta from Japan (2011 model) shows the engine symbol 34 after installing Navigation/TV/DVD system. How can this be corrected? This comes up with all other lights at start up, but this one persists.

On 1 September 2011 at 18:36 UTC, Holli said:

I had my rear drums and diskes changed on my 2003 Saturn L200 and it now has a clicking noise as I brake. normal?

On 6 September 2011 at 09:51 UTC, Tricia said:

This was very helpful! I am so relieved I was able this website.

On 6 September 2011 at 20:45 UTC, Linda said:

I purchased a preowned 2010 Toyota and didn't receive an owners manual...so when an indicator light came on...I KNEW the Internet would have the information and explanation I needed to correct any problem. It worked!!!! Thanks SO MUCH!!!!

On 12 September 2011 at 21:12 UTC, malty said:

Very useful website. thanks

On 13 September 2011 at 04:17 UTC, Richard said:

Hi i have a Toyota Opa ACT10 2001 model. Could you pliz mail me the dashbord signs and also the car operating manual.the one i have is in japan language and not helpful as such. (ric1924@yahoo.com)

On 18 September 2011 at 11:20 UTC, alex said:

wow u guys are so good, thank you

On 18 September 2011 at 20:28 UTC, AK said:

Thank you so much for the exhaustif list of these signs,it helped me to be overcome the fear of driving a car without any clue of those signs!

On 23 September 2011 at 20:53 UTC, crank said:

I have a BMW 318 ti and i dont see some of the symbols i see in that car, can you help me plz. Thanks

On 27 September 2011 at 00:06 UTC, eslondon said:

v useful, thanks

On 30 September 2011 at 13:48 UTC, josb said:

thank you this is very helpful, I have a 2001 jetta and it shows the icon number six, triangle with exclamations mark but it has a circulating arrow around it.

On 12 October 2011 at 23:39 UTC, Efekay said:

THANX! This is very educating for a DIY guy like me! Efeoghene Kagho, EFEKAY AUTOMATRIX, Lagos, Nigeria.

On 15 October 2011 at 22:29 UTC, Sid said:

How much time or more specifically approximate number of kilometers will be allowed before brake pads actually need to be repalced after the time that the warning light comes on for a BMW X3

On 16 October 2011 at 10:05 UTC, NODDY said:

ODB INDICATOR STAYES ON ALL THE TIME ITS BEAN TO THE GARAGE AND HAD THE COMPUTER ON IT IT RESETS IT BUT WHEN U DRIVE 4 A BIT IT COMES BACK ON CAN ANY BODY HELP PLEASE

On 19 October 2011 at 15:44 UTC, Daddy Rabbit said:

I have a 94 bmw 325is and the light kinda looks like 5 or 24...but not quiet the same.Like minutes on clock around the outside of a tire.

On 24 October 2011 at 03:55 UTC, phil said:

number 36 that light only came on today and just wondering if its a major problem and how to fix it

On 29 October 2011 at 01:37 UTC, billy said:

Very insightful information

On 30 October 2011 at 08:50 UTC, vee said:

MASTER LIGHTING SWITCH IS LIT UP ON MY DASH. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN

On 3 November 2011 at 09:38 UTC, aninbern said:

my dashboard symbol its look like number 8 symbol but inside there is two arrows in opposite direction can u help me?toyota corrola AE11o

On 10 November 2011 at 17:18 UTC, Melcow said:

Damn there no icon what I am look for. Damn..I try make clear pic...there two hose each side with square and seem heat on the top..is it exhaust emission ?

On 10 November 2011 at 20:27 UTC, serg said:

i have a pontiac g6 and my anti-theft system symbol came on, how do i get it to turn off or what do i need to do to get it off

On 13 November 2011 at 07:48 UTC, Clauds said:

I bought an eclass 220 cdi WX52 OVA 3 weeks ago. It had 1 fault showing (battery symbol) and message about breaks. When previous owner was queried about them he said he had fixed breaks himself, but had not been on diagnostics machine.
Engine failed to turn on last Friday after putting key in yet all lights and radio are working.
Have put new battery in the boot and engine is still not turning on and a sinlge clicking sound can be heard.

Any suggestions please?

Clauds

On 14 November 2011 at 01:32 UTC, sweety said:

my car is showing the warning light that is in no 34. the explanation i find here is that it should be serviced, what type of service does it require. My next service is after 3000 kms. Has anyone encounter this type of problem before and how was it resolved. can i drive it or iat risk? Please explain?
Sweety

On 21 November 2011 at 02:11 UTC, M said:

v helpful

On 23 November 2011 at 23:48 UTC, confused said:

a oil can with a water line under it . could you tell me whot this means ... thank you

On 23 November 2011 at 23:54 UTC, driver said:

could you please tell me whot a oil can and a water line under means please thank you

On 24 November 2011 at 12:14 UTC, jenn said:

these tips came in handy for me to notice it ahead of time

On 24 November 2011 at 23:00 UTC, echoowner said:

would the temperature warning light (#33) come on if the vehicle is cold?

On 2 December 2011 at 12:46 UTC, Hisham said:

@Christela
the F150 symbol you are talking about is the same as # 27, but instead of a lock you have a key ( or a electronic chip shape wich is emplanted into the key ) and its go off after the car start

On 5 December 2011 at 21:12 UTC, cayman islands said:

Hi Great info how about SRS in red?

On 11 December 2011 at 13:59 UTC, petepete00 said:

very helpful!!!

On 13 December 2011 at 07:08 UTC, Vova said:

Thank You very much! Very usefull !

On 21 December 2011 at 23:14 UTC, Pugsey 1 said:

Thank you for explaining # 34. This was not an easy symbol to find on the internet. You're a very helpful site to have as a resource. Thanks again and happy holidays!

On 23 December 2011 at 01:03 UTC, Gary tank commander said:

I drive a tank and there's a light that comes on that looks a bit like a fire, and it comes on when it gets hot. It has the word 'mine' underneath, and happens every time the tank backfires. Can anyone tell me what it means.

On 31 December 2011 at 15:51 UTC, Sadhu said:

A warning light similar to low tire pressure symbol with the exclaimation mark replaced with two opposite arrows pointing on a dot in the centre. Can you please tell me what is it

On 3 January 2012 at 21:54 UTC, J Everett said:

Did it seriously not occur to any of you complaining about warning lights to maybe read the operator's manual that came with the car. If you bought it second hand, search for a copy online. They're out there. Don't just come complain here that they missed a particular light that's showing on your dash and expect them to do the work of figuring it out for you. Use Google; that's what it's for.

On 4 January 2012 at 07:53 UTC, Ljen said:

Very helpful information. Fast and easy when you're in a rush and don't want or have time to run out to your car for the manual.

On 4 January 2012 at 22:48 UTC, Zaid said:

I have a toyota marino and the # 19 sign with the catalytic converter sign illimunates @ the same time after i have switched on the ignition.What should i do?

On 8 January 2012 at 18:38 UTC, godson said:

I have a Toyota Fielder 2001 and last night a symbol similar to number 8 lit up. Instead of the exclaimation mark, there are 2 arrows pointing to a dot in the centre. please somebody help

On 9 January 2012 at 20:09 UTC, bob said:

Trying to figure what an arrow circling a triangle means on a 323I, dont see it listed

On 11 January 2012 at 04:32 UTC, DS72 said:

I have a 52 plate BMW 318, there is a yellow warning light that looks like a water tank with a water line, what does this mean?

On 13 January 2012 at 03:13 UTC, John said:

Good tips. Please can someone tell me more about item no 34? I just saw this indicator on my honda pilot yesterday

On 18 January 2012 at 23:13 UTC, nyabs said:

very useful information thanks

On 31 January 2012 at 13:59 UTC, dazpove77 said:

Need help i have bmw 318 se i have a few warning lights that come on when iam driving numbers 1/ 5/ 6 on the diagram above any idea's on what to do would be very helpful

On 3 February 2012 at 22:52 UTC, kaseem said:

These are the needful information to a driver. Thanks to autoevolution.com

On 5 February 2012 at 09:44 UTC, justin said:

theres a warning light thats on my van its not on here has 2 small circles one says 1 and the other and the letter p in the circles break under that. its a mecury estate made in 2002 dont know the model number

On 8 February 2012 at 20:41 UTC, a hermit said:

very good!

On 11 February 2012 at 13:06 UTC, Chevy man said:

I have an s10 1997 chevy blazer and yesterday a light lit up that looks like the high beam symbol but it is solid green please help i dont know what it is!

On 14 February 2012 at 06:40 UTC, fayyaz said:

On my dashboard there is a reading/ratio called E/T. It an option you can select, same place to select the average km/h driven, temperature, litres/km being consumed, etc. Does anyone know that it is for?

On 15 February 2012 at 17:34 UTC, jb21 said:

What does LTP mean??? That comes on when I stop and put the car in park.

On 16 February 2012 at 10:13 UTC, bmwlover said:

thanks this helps a lot, some other sites were useless!

On 7 March 2012 at 14:07 UTC, Territown613 said:

This was very useful information, the only site I found that answered my question on the tire pressure icon. Thanks a million

On 7 March 2012 at 23:27 UTC, Tina said:

Ty very much I have looked for hours and finally a site with codes

On 10 March 2012 at 04:59 UTC, Esir said:

Gosh, I turned my Ford Focus on and found the OBD light on, I decided to off it and search for the possible meaning of the warning light, thanks to the site, as otherwise I would blow the engine.

On 10 March 2012 at 14:57 UTC, gmt said:

these tips were very helpful, million thanx!

On 15 March 2012 at 19:21 UTC, lee said:

hi this sight is really useful i have just snapped my key in the barrel and with a short temper and steel toe capped boot i kicked the crap out of the barrel and surrounding area smashing the transponder housing and the curcuit board inside it i got a replacement transponder ignition barel and key with chip after sorting out the damage i done and fitting the new parts it would not start someone told me i needed an ecu aswell cause there coded so after spending money on new parts had to find more money for the ecu i got one and fitted it and it still would not start then a friend told me they all have to be coded so hearing this the new parts also met my steel toe capped boots regretting what i had done i bought a full ecu kit comprising of an ecu a transponder ignition barrel and key with chip my car witch is an astra 1.6 16 valve on a 51 plate was running fine with no warning lights on the dash after i fitted all the kit it starts fine but now there is an engine warning light on the dash what could be causing this as my car runs fine now .. any answers most appretiated thankyou.. lee.

On 19 March 2012 at 05:49 UTC, kelz said:

these tips were brill thanx :)

On 21 March 2012 at 15:48 UTC, Ochman said:

You're a lifesaver. Thanks!

On 22 March 2012 at 15:14 UTC, slugbait said:

i have a 2006 fiesta zetec, there is a yellow light on the dash, outside of the tacho, its by the number 7 on dial, it has no symbol, its just yellow, any ideas?

On 30 March 2012 at 00:04 UTC, bobbyganush said:

thanks i had no idea what the tire pressure symbol was til i saw this

On 30 March 2012 at 03:25 UTC, Joka said:

This information was quiet helpful. Howeve, I have a problem with my SUZUKI ESCUDO vehicle. it has a symbol with about three cyinder like pipes going into a round into a component that has an outlet. like the join between the maniford(sp) and the exuast(sp) pipe or system. I will be very greatful if am helped. Good day.

On 5 April 2012 at 21:39 UTC, kandy said:

i have a ford explorer limited 1996. i have a yellow light that stays on in dash. it is a circle with a line horizontal and the capital letter D in it. please let me know what it means. i have searched the internet all morning with no success. this looks like the best site for an answer. looking forward to hearing from you if you could help. thank you

On 5 April 2012 at 21:41 UTC, kandy said:

On 6 April 2012 at 08:57 UTC, Amber woods said:

Thank you this was very helpful. I have my driving test today, I'm extremely nervous and I wanted to do some last minute studying

On 9 April 2012 at 07:08 UTC, SAMMY said:

I HAVE A DODGE CHARGER I HAVE TO DESCONNECT MY BATTRY EVERY TIME I GONE START MY CAR AND I HAVE THE ENGINE LIGHT ON SENSE THAN WHAT TO DO ?

On 9 April 2012 at 13:29 UTC, sad driver said:

Amazing, I was wracking my brain trying to figure out what was wrong with the car! Manual was useless, but you saved the day!

On 25 April 2012 at 15:44 UTC, aani yar said:

very impressive good work realy sort my problem out, Wez

On 2 May 2012 at 14:28 UTC, Charlotte ''sparkletts'' Willhite said:

thank you this is very useful, but ive got one on my mitsubishi eclipses thats not here and have no idea what it means... it looks like a carousel or a gate. if you can tell me waht it means it would really help me out thank you.

On 3 May 2012 at 04:40 UTC, Debra Mathis said:

Thank you very much. I thought it was something major. I was sitting with the car idle for a long time and it was a light like a T with 2 crosses across the top instead of 1. I have a Dodge Grand Caravan and I think it was the temperature warning light that the car was running hot. As I started to drive, the light went out. I haven't checked the fluids in a while so I will do that right away. Thank you for your helpful website!

On 4 May 2012 at 17:16 UTC, Charles Griffin said:

Great work on this. Very helpful.

On 7 June 2012 at 12:05 UTC, Avneet Saluja said:

i have OBD indicator on well i have got my car serive week ago again it's on. do u have any suggestion to fix this up

On 28 June 2012 at 18:13 UTC, Erin Conroy said:

I have # 27 on my GMC Jimmy 2005 (Canada) so it is not exclusively Ford. It stays on all the time how do i turn it off.

On 20 July 2012 at 04:54 UTC, brian lowrie said:

Well, on the face of it, great. However, on my mini there is another orange warning light, third up from the left. Any ideas? Jok.

On 9 August 2012 at 09:47 UTC, Mohammed Lebonny Abdullahi said:

Thanks is great I was enlightened when I went through the list.

On 13 August 2012 at 14:19 UTC, sherbet bell said:

thank you very helpful

On 11 September 2012 at 05:47 UTC, Victor Hugo Jo?o said:

I have a Toyota Allex 2001 and last night a symbol similar to number 8 lit up. Instead of the exclaimation mark, there are 2 arrows pointing to a dot in the centre. please somebody help.

On 11 September 2012 at 05:48 UTC, Victor Hugo Jo?o said:

I have a Toyota Allex 2001 and last night a symbol similar to number 8 lit up. Instead of the exclaimation mark, there are 2 arrows pointing to a dot in the centre. please somebody help.

On 15 September 2012 at 05:21 UTC, arjuna jayasekara said:

oh very nice use ful information
this is service even car manufacturers dont tell us usually for older cars
thanks a lot guys

On 15 September 2012 at 05:22 UTC, arjuna jayasekara said:

oh very nice use ful information
this is service even car manufacturers dont tell us usually for older cars
thanks a lot guys

On 18 September 2012 at 22:56 UTC, coachorr said:

My tire pressure monitor was on constantly with a low tire. After installing the donut, it was on constant, then started flashing. What does that mean?

On 18 September 2012 at 22:56 UTC, coachorr said:

My tire pressure monitor was on constantly with a low tire. After installing the donut, it was on constant, then started flashing. What does that mean?

On 4 October 2012 at 16:01 UTC, AYISHA ILIAS said:

what happens when your car starts to jerk when u apply the brakes?

On 10 October 2012 at 06:32 UTC, Dawn Ford said:

my tire pressure light is on #8 how to reset HELP

On 10 October 2012 at 06:33 UTC, Dawn Ford said:

My tire pressure light is on checked tires how to reset HELP

On 14 October 2012 at 12:38 UTC, Gwen Thomas said:

THANK GODDNESS FOR AUTOREVOLUTION .com......has made my life easier knowing how to read dashboard warning signals. thank you

On 26 October 2012 at 19:12 UTC, Mindy G said:

Thank you for the helpful explanations of the dashboard lights.

On 12 November 2012 at 13:31 UTC, Leonel Aranda said:

Exactly what I needed today, thanks

On 17 November 2012 at 10:58 UTC, Edgar Whittington said:

This was extremely helpful! Thank you!

On 30 November 2012 at 08:03 UTC, Dave Hawkins said:

Very useful better than the Ford handbook

On 30 November 2012 at 09:23 UTC, Tyler Chevrier said:

NUMBER 14 IS WRONG YOU IDIOT! ITS WHEN YOUR LOW ON WIND SHIELD WASHER FLUID

On 1 December 2012 at 04:20 UTC, Kevin Redmond said:

I have a 2001 honda accord sedan and a horizontal red light came on in the dash board warning lights under the vertical column gear indicator, what is the meaning of that light?

On 5 January 2013 at 20:27 UTC, Donald Gulfan said:

For Toyta 86. On page 197 of the manual it says that the light turns on when the ENGINE START STOP switch is turned to IGNITION ON mode to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will be turned off after the engine is started or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction ........if the lights do not turn off. As i Observe mine the Passenger side Airbag Indicator light stays ON always. Is this OKay or a Malfunction?

On 8 January 2013 at 08:48 UTC, Ken Martinez said:

2008 Jetta SEL symbol came on last nite looks like a snow flake wont turn off?

On 4 February 2013 at 12:39 UTC, Sai Set said:

help me

On 14 March 2013 at 03:02 UTC, fred k. said:

My car is a Toyota Spacio and it has a 34 yet it serviced, and the gas cover is locked well what can i do?? plz help

On 21 March 2013 at 20:55 UTC, Cody W. said:

thank you it helped with scouts

On 25 April 2013 at 04:18 UTC, John A. said:

Maint Record shows on my Toyota Corolla 2007, what does it mean?

On 10 May 2013 at 14:54 UTC, Ashley D. said:

My Citroen Relay is showing No33 warning when the engine is cold ( it has been sat on the drive for 6 months) but when I turn the ignition on the warning goes off ?? Is this a common fault?

On 11 May 2013 at 01:09 UTC, Francis Mae T. said:

very helpful...thanks.

On 13 May 2013 at 08:52 UTC, joseph m. said:

The tips were extremely helpful. Please include the meaning of SRS as shown on Mitsubishi Dion gdi dash board.

On 16 May 2013 at 08:33 UTC, Nasir M. said:

hmm that was good info