Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

Looking for car dashboard symbols and names? If you own an automobile, then you would probably know just how important automobile dashboard symbols are. They are the small icons that are usually displayed within the speedometer and rev counter dials. These lights are connected to a sensor that, when illuminated, indicates to the driver that something is wrong with the vehicle and may require them to take some necessary action. This is why everyone should be fully aware of the car symbols meaning. Even Indus Motors has issued the automobile dashboard symbols Toyota guide for the drivers to insure their car’s safety. Car dashboard symbols and names are discussed below.

 

Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

As much as it is important to know about the dashboard markers or dashboard warning lights, most of us, unfortunately, don’t which is worrisome. Considering how dangerous it could be if you don’t know what to do if one of the icons illuminates, you could potentially cause some serious damage to your vehicle. However, there is nothing to be worried about these symbols and names as I will be breaking down 10 of these automobile dashboard symbols. So, read on and find out what these curious-looking lights mean.

 

Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

 

Note: Depending on what car you have, your vehicle’s dashboard may be different. Plus, the symbols may have altered designs or they may indicate different things. So, it is better to read your owner’s manual as it will help you understand these markers better. Some of these automobile dashboard lights could indicate a serious problem. Please don’t ignore them and have them checked by a professional. 

 

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

car dashboard symbols meaning

 

This ABS light means that your car’s anti-lock braking system (ABS) is not working properly. Now, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to apply the brakes as the vehicle will probably slow down in normal conditions. However, the function of the Anti-lock brake system is to prevent your car from skidding when you push the brakes with force or use them on a slippery surface. So, if ABS is not working fine then your car needs immediate attention, it’s recommended to get it checked by taking your car to a repair shop.

 

Battery

car dashboard symbols meaning

If you see a battery symbol light up, then it could mean one of two things. The first is that your battery is low on charge. The second reason could be related to the problem with your vehicle’s electrical and charging system which may be caused due to issues with the ignition cable or alternator belt.

 

Engine Temperature Warning Light

car dashboard lights

The Engine temperature warning light indicates that your car’s engine is getting hot. This probably happens when the coolant level of your vehicle is low. You can fix the coolant level issue by simply topping up the coolant. Please note that you should only do this when the engine is cold. In addition, there is a chance that the temperature warning light could glow because of the broken head gasket, water pump, and radiator.

 

Glow Plugs

car dashboard lights

Glow Plugs are only used in diesel cars and they help to start the engine. The glow plug will continue to illuminate for a while after you have turned the ignition keys. This is because it requires time for the plugs to heat up. However, if this symbol remains on or shows up later then there could be a problem with the plugs or the system that controls them.

 

Check Engine Light

car dashboard symbols toyota

It is one of the most ambiguous automobile dashboard lights. When it glows, it means that the engine control unit (ECU) has identified a problem. This problem can be anything from a faulty sensor to a serious mechanical failure. So, it is better to have a professional check your car whenever this icon appears.

 

Oil

car dashboard symbols toyota

This symbol does not mean good news for your car. It illuminates whenever your engine’s temperature rises too high, the oil level drops too low or the oil pressure becomes too high, or low, or needs an oil change. It can cause some serious problems. So, let a professional examine your car whenever the oil icon lights up.

 

Automatic Shift Lock

Automatic shift lock

Automatic Shift Lock or ASL is a safety feature that locks the shifter in neutral or park. The symbol of a boot inside the icon serves as a reminder that you must step on the brake to let go of the lock and shift the transmission into reverse or drive.

 

Tire Pressure

Tire Pressure

Tire Pressure monitoring systems have become mandatory for new cars. Even Indus Motors included the icon in its automobile dashboard symbol Toyota guide. This marker lights up when the pressure of the tire is too low. You can fix this symbols Toyota issue by topping up your car’s tires.

 

Seatbelt

Seatbelt

This icon lights up when a passenger is not wearing his/her seatbelt. Modern cars are usually equipped with pressure sensors that may cause the warning light to trigger after detecting a specific amount of weight in the seat. So, avoid placing heavy items on the seat if you don’t want these icons to illuminate unnecessarily.

 

Fuel Indicator System

Fuel Indicator System

The Fuel Indicator System can be found in almost every modern automobile. It has also been mentioned in the automobile dashboard symbol Toyota guide. This icon will light up if you run low on fuel. You can resolve the issue by having your gas tank filled with fuel by taking your car to a gas station. There is also an arrow next to the symbol on the fuel gauge. This would tell you where the gas cap is.

 

Traction Control Light

Traction Control Light

The traction control system is activated if this light is illuminated. This can control system compares the speed of your anti-lock brakes to determine which wheel is spinning faster. If a wheel begins to slip, it applies the brakes in an attempt to regain traction until it stops slipping. This is particularly useful when driving in the rain or snow.

 

Traction Control Malfunction

Traction Control Malfunction

A sensor fault or other issue might be causing this light to come on. The traction control system in your car may have a broken or dysfunctional sensor, or it may be experiencing some other form of failure. Because the same control module manages the ABS and the traction control system in some vehicles, this indicator lights up when there are issues with your ABS.

 

Airbag Light Indicator

Airbag Light Indicator

One of your airbags or the entire system is broken, according to the airbag indicator. Because your vehicle’s airbags protect you during collisions, this problem must be handled right away.

 

Security Light for Car

Security Light for Car

The Security light for the car indicates that something may be wrong with your car’s anti-theft system if it has one. This symbol also blinks when you turn on your car, which is not a sign that anything is wrong.

 

Fog Lamp Indicator

Fog Lamp Indicator

Your fog lights are on, according to this symbol. Only use fog lights when your visibility is less than 100 yards. If you turn them on for no reason, you might cause accidents for other drivers on the road.

 

Washer Fluid Indicator

Washer Fluid Indicator

This symbol means that your car’s washer fluid level is low, just like the motion of your windshield wipers. As soon as possible, fill up the reservoir with fluid.

f you’re looking to maintain your car’s shine, consider trying out snow foam car wash products, which can effectively remove dirt and grime while being gentle on your vehicle’s paint. For more information on how snow foam works, check out this informative article by Jenny Chem.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Symbols on a car Dashboard? 

There are 15 different car dashboard symbols that indicate different things. Some of these symbols and names include Engine Temperature Warning Light, Oil Pressure Warning, Traction Control, Engine Warning, and Antilock Brake Warning. These symbols’ meanings can be understood easily if you have a car manual.

What do the signs on my car Dashboard indicate?

There are different car dashboard symbols and when they get bright they indicate that a fault has occurred inside the vehicle’s system.

What does the yellow symbol on my Dashboard mean?

If you see a yellow symbol on your car’s dashboard light up then it means there’s a problem in the vehicle that needs to be serviced soon.

What does P mean on a car Instrument Panel?

The P on your car’s instrument panel symbol is called a Power Steering Warning. It means that there is an issue with the vehicle’s power steering system. You will still be able to use the steering wheel but you will be having little to no power assist.

What causes the traction control light to come on?

The traction control light will come on due to many reasons including, a faulty steering angle or broken wheel speed sensor, bad conditions on the road, problems with the braking system, and computer issues with the TLC system.

How do I circulate the Air in my Car?

If you want to circulate the air in your air then consider doing it with fresh air first. Roll down the windows and let the fresh air fill the space before you turn on the AC or heater on a hot or cool day respectively.

What does a Check Engine Light look like?

A Check Engine Light comes in yellow, orange, or amber, depending on the manufacturer. If the light blinks then it may indicate a serious problem such as a misfire which can cause the catalytic converter to overheat.

What is the Orange light on the Dashboard?

An orange light on your vehicle dashboard symbol means that the computer which runs the engine also known as the engine management system has identified a problem. You can continue to drive but it is better to get your vehicle checked by the local service center so you may diagnose and resolve the issue as soon as possible.

What does the Orange symbol mean in a Car?

The orange symbol on your car’s instrument panel is the engine management system which when blinking indicates that there is something wrong with the vehicle.

 

Conclusion 

Whenever a car dashboard warning light illuminates, your first reaction is probably to panic which is normal. However, now that you know what some of these markers mean, you would be able to take the necessary actions if in case something goes wrong. Do you have any other symbols in mind that you think should have been on the list? If so, then comment down below, and let’s help the drivers understand these dashboard symbols and names, as we have mostly covered these symbols for Toyota & other vehicles.

Kokou Adzo

Kokou Adzo serves as the dynamic editor and talented author at Paktales.com, consistently demonstrating a strong passion for business and technology. Kokou stays abreast of the latest news and insights in the Startup ecosystem to ensure his readers are always informed. An alumnus of the University of Sienna, Italy, and Rennes, France, he holds a Master's Degree in Communications and Political Science. In addition to writing, Kokou is also responsible for managing all editorial operations.

Related Articles

Back to top button