Do you know what your dashboard lights mean? Yes, you can look them up in your owner’s manual, or you can simply identify them here, simplified:
Understanding Your Dashboard Lights
Airbag Indicator
What it looks like: Someone getting blasted by a kickball while sitting down.
What it means: There could be an issue with the airbag system in your vehicle.
Anti-Lock Brake Warning
What it looks like: The word ‘ABS’ reminding you to exercise more.
What it means: Something is wrong with your anti-lock brake system. Go get it checked out.
Automatic Shift Lock / Engine Start Indicator
What it looks like: A shoe warning or dance zone.
What it means: You need to use the brake and start your car’s ignition or get out of neutral.
Battery Alert
What it looks like: A battery.
What it means: The vehicle’s charging system is losing power and you are running solely on battery.
Engine Warning
What it looks like: some say a helicopter and others say a submarine.
What it means: It can flash on for a number of reasons. When it does, get it checked out immediately.
Engine Temperature Warning Light
What it looks like: A key or flag poking out of the water.
What it means: Your engine is about to overheat.
Fog Lamp Indicator
What it looks like: A bullet flying through a squiggly wall.
What it means: You have your fog lights on.
Fuel Indicator Symbol
What it looks like: A gas pump.
What it means: You need gas. Don’t chance it!
Oil Pressure Warning
What it looks like: No, a genie will not pop out if this light comes on.
What it means: You’re low on engine oil, or you have a problem with your oil pressure system.
Tire Pressure Warning Light
What it looks like: Some people think it’s an exclamation point inside a flower pot.
What it means: The pressure in your tires is too low and needs to be checked.
Traction Control
What it looks like: Drifting initiated.
What it means: Your vehicle’s traction control system is engaged. Close.
Traction Control Malfunction
What it looks like: It’s the Illuminati of the auto world.
What it means: Your anti-skid system may be shut off completely.
Seat Belt Reminder Light
What it looks like: A crash test dummy wearing a seatbelt.
What it means: Don’t be a dummy and buckle your seatbelt, please.
Security Light
What it looks like: A key in front of a car.
What it means: Your vehicle is responding to the proper transponder which triggers the ignition. Or, there could be something wrong with your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
Washer Fluid Indicator
What it looks like: An upside down, double-handled umbrella.
What it means: Your washer fluid level is low and needs to be filled up.