Have you ever been driving and suddenly noticed a light pop up on your car’s dashboard? It’s a common experience, and while some symbols are straightforward, others can leave you scratching your head, wondering if something is wrong with your vehicle’s engine or another system. Understanding these Car Engine Signs and dashboard symbols is crucial for every driver, ensuring you can react promptly to potential issues and maintain your car’s health.
Dashboard lights are your car’s way of communicating vital information, from engaged features to serious malfunctions. They can indicate everything from activated cruise control to critical engine problems. It’s essential to recognize that not all lights signal emergencies. Some are simply indicators of features in use, but knowing the difference can save you from unnecessary worry or prevent serious engine damage.
The color of the warning light is your first clue to the urgency of the situation. Green or blue lights are typically informational, letting you know a system is active and functioning correctly, such as headlights being on or cruise control engaged. Yellow or orange lights, however, suggest a system needs attention or servicing soon. These are warnings that shouldn’t be ignored but may not require immediate action. Red lights are the most critical. They demand immediate attention and often signal a problem that could cause significant damage or safety issues if ignored. A flashing red light amplifies the urgency, indicating a severe problem that requires you to pull over as soon as safely possible.
As we delve into common car engine signs and dashboard lights, remember that vehicle dashboards can vary slightly between makes and models. When in doubt, your owner’s manual is the ultimate guide to your specific car’s symbols. Also, note that many lights will briefly illuminate when you start your car as part of a system check. This is normal, and as long as they disappear within a few seconds, it indicates that the system is operating as expected.
18 Common Car Engine Signs and Warning Lights Explained
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light 2. Tire Pressure Warning Light 3. Engine Temperature Warning Light 4. Traction Control Alert Light 5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light 6. Traction Control Malfunction Light 7. Check Engine Light 8. Battery Alert Light 9. Low Fuel Indicator Light 10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light 11. Seat Belt Reminder Light 12. Airbag Warning Light 13. Security Indicator Light 14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light 15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light 16. Brake Warning Light 17. Lane Departure Warning Light 18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
1. Oil Pressure Warning Light {#oil-pressure-warning-light}
What It Means: Represented by an icon resembling an old-fashioned oil can, this is a critical car engine sign indicating a problem with your engine’s oil pressure system. It typically means your engine is suffering from low oil levels or that the oil pump is failing to circulate enough oil to properly lubricate the engine’s internal components. Some vehicles might display the word “OIL” instead of the symbol.
What To Do: Low oil pressure is a serious threat to your engine. Insufficient lubrication can lead to significant engine damage very quickly. As soon as you see this light, safely pull over to the side of the road and turn off your engine. Wait a few minutes, then check your oil level using the dipstick. Look for any obvious oil leaks around the engine area.
If the oil level is low, adding oil might resolve the issue, and the light could turn off. However, if the oil level is adequate and the engine sounds noisy, it could point to a failing oil pump. If the oil level is fine and the engine sounds normal, the oil pressure sensor itself might be faulty. Regardless of the apparent cause, it’s essential to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the underlying problem. Ignoring this warning can lead to costly engine repairs or even engine failure.
2. Tire Pressure Warning Light {#tire-pressure-warning-light}
What It Means: Often referred to as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) symbol, this horseshoe-shaped icon with an exclamation point signals an issue related to your tire pressure or the TPMS itself.
If the TPMS symbol is illuminated solidly, it means that one or more of your tires are under-inflated or over-inflated. Maintaining correct tire pressure is vital for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
If the TPMS symbol flashes for approximately 60 to 90 seconds when you start your car and then remains constantly lit, even after you’ve confirmed your tires are correctly inflated, it indicates a malfunction within the TPMS system itself, likely with one or more TPMS sensors.
What To Do: Driving with improper tire pressure is dangerous and can damage your tires, reduce fuel economy, and compromise vehicle handling. Stop in a safe location as soon as possible to check your tire pressures. Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire and inflate or deflate them to the recommended pressure, which is usually found on a sticker inside your driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
If you are near a service station with an air pump, use it to adjust your tire pressure. If the light persists after adjusting the pressure, or if it’s flashing, schedule a visit to a tire service center to have your TPMS system checked. While a malfunctioning TPMS sensor won’t directly harm your tires, it will prevent the system from alerting you to future pressure drops, which is a safety concern.
3. Engine Temperature Warning Light {#engine-temperature-warning-light}
What It Means: This symbol, resembling a thermometer submerged in liquid, is a critical car engine sign that indicates your engine is overheating. Overheating is often related to the engine coolant (antifreeze) system but can arise from various issues within the cooling system, such as a coolant leak, a faulty thermostat, or a broken water pump.
What To Do: Engine overheating can cause severe damage if not addressed promptly. Your first action should be to try and reduce engine load. Turn off your air conditioning and turn on your heater to draw heat away from the engine and into the passenger compartment. While counterintuitive, this can sometimes help dissipate engine heat.
If the temperature gauge does not start to move back towards normal within a minute or two, or if steam or a burning smell is present, pull over to a safe location immediately and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool down for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting anything further. Crucially, do not open the hood while the engine is hot. There is a risk of burns from escaping steam or hot coolant.
While waiting for the engine to cool, plan your next steps. Contact roadside assistance to request coolant top-off service or arrange for a tow to a qualified repair shop. Driving a car that is overheating can lead to catastrophic engine damage, including warped cylinder heads or a cracked engine block, resulting in very expensive repairs.
4. Traction Control Light {#traction-control-alert-light}
What It Means: This symbol, often depicting a car leaving curved tire tracks, indicates that your vehicle’s traction control system is actively engaged. The traction control system uses sensors and the anti-lock braking system (ABS) to detect when a wheel is losing traction and spinning faster than the others, typically on slippery surfaces like rain, snow, or ice. When wheel slip is detected, the system automatically applies braking force to the slipping wheel(s) and may reduce engine power until traction is regained.
What To Do: When this light is flashing, it means the traction control system is working as intended to help maintain control in slippery conditions. Continue driving cautiously, being mindful of the reduced traction. There is generally no immediate action required beyond adapting your driving to the conditions. However, if the light remains on constantly (not flashing) it could indicate a malfunction in the traction control system, which would require further investigation.
5. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light {#anti-lock-brake-system-abs-warning-light}
What It Means: Usually displaying the letters “ABS,” this warning light indicates a problem within your vehicle’s Anti-lock Braking System. The ABS is a critical safety feature designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, especially on slippery surfaces, allowing you to maintain steering control during emergency stops. When the ABS warning light is illuminated, it signifies that the ABS system is not functioning correctly. Regular braking will still work, but you will not have the benefits of anti-lock braking.
What To Do: Because the ABS is a vital safety system, it is important to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. While you can still drive with the ABS light on, your braking performance in emergency situations might be compromised, particularly on slippery surfaces. Schedule an appointment with a qualified mechanic to have your ABS system inspected and repaired to ensure your vehicle’s safety systems are fully operational.
6. Traction Control Malfunction Light {#traction-control-malfunction-light}
What It Means: This symbol, sometimes similar to the traction control activation light but often with the word “OFF” or an exclamation mark, indicates a malfunction within the traction control system. In some vehicles, the traction control and ABS systems share components or a control module, so a problem in one system can sometimes trigger warnings in both.
What To Do: A traction control malfunction means the system may not engage when needed in slippery conditions, potentially reducing your vehicle’s stability and control in rain, snow, or ice. While this malfunction may not affect normal, dry-road driving, it is a safety concern, especially in inclement weather. Schedule a service appointment to have the traction control system diagnosed and repaired to ensure it will function correctly when needed.
7. Check Engine Light {#check-engine-light}
What It Means: Often depicted as an engine outline or simply saying “CHECK ENGINE” or “SERVICE ENGINE SOON,” the check engine light is one of the most ambiguous and potentially concerning car engine signs. It can illuminate for a wide array of reasons, ranging from minor issues like a loose gas cap preventing proper fuel vapor recovery to serious engine or emissions system problems.
What To Do: The appropriate action depends on the behavior of the check engine light.
If the check engine light is solid and yellow or orange, and you haven’t noticed any significant changes in your car’s performance, such as rough running, unusual noises, or smells, you can usually continue driving for a limited distance, ideally to your home or a trusted repair shop. However, it’s still important to have the issue diagnosed promptly to prevent potential escalation into more serious problems.
If the check engine light is red and/or flashing, this indicates a more severe problem that requires immediate attention. A flashing check engine light often signals an engine misfire or another issue that could cause catalytic converter damage if ignored. In this case, stop driving as soon as safely possible. Continuing to drive with a flashing check engine light can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs.
In either scenario, it’s crucial to have your vehicle scanned with an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble code(s) that triggered the light. This code will provide valuable information to help pinpoint the source of the problem and guide necessary repairs.
8. Battery Alert Light {#battery-alert-light}
What It Means: Resembling a car battery, often with “+” and “-” terminals, this light indicates a problem within your vehicle’s charging system. This system is responsible for both starting the car and keeping the battery charged while the engine is running. The issue could be a loose or corroded battery cable, a failing alternator (which charges the battery), or another electrical system fault. You might notice symptoms like dimming headlights, a weak or slow engine crank when starting, or even a complete failure to start.
What To Do: A battery alert light suggests your car may soon experience electrical problems or fail to start. It’s advisable to have your vehicle’s charging system inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. They can test the battery, alternator, and charging system wiring to identify the root cause.
If the issue is a failing alternator, your car may run for a while longer using battery power, but eventually, the battery will be depleted, and the car will likely stall and not restart. Don’t delay in getting this checked, or you could find yourself stranded.
9. Low Fuel Indicator Light {#low-fuel-indicator-light}
What It Means: Shaped like a fuel pump, this is a universally recognized dashboard light indicating that your vehicle’s fuel level is low and approaching empty.
What To Do: The solution is straightforward: refuel your vehicle as soon as conveniently possible. While most cars have a reserve fuel capacity after this light illuminates, the range can vary, and it’s not advisable to push your luck, especially in unfamiliar areas or in adverse weather conditions. Running out of fuel can leave you stranded and can potentially damage some vehicles’ fuel systems.
Bonus Tip: Most modern vehicles include a small arrow next to the fuel pump symbol on the fuel gauge. This arrow points to the side of the car where the fuel filler door is located, a helpful feature when driving an unfamiliar vehicle or renting a car.
10. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light {#automatic-shift-lock-or-engine-start-indicator-light}
What It Means: This symbol, often a foot pressing a brake pedal or a key symbol with an exclamation point, usually indicates that you are attempting to shift out of “Park” or start the engine without pressing the brake pedal. Modern automatic transmissions are equipped with a shift lock mechanism that prevents shifting out of “Park” unless the brake pedal is depressed, as a safety feature.
What To Do: Simply ensure your foot is firmly pressing the brake pedal, and then attempt to shift gears or start the ignition again. This light is a reminder of a safety interlock and usually resolves immediately once the correct procedure is followed.
11. Seat Belt Reminder Light {#seat-belt-reminder-light}
What It Means: Depicting a person wearing a seat belt, this light is a simple reminder for the driver and front-seat passenger to buckle their seat belts. It’s often accompanied by an audible chime or warning sound that repeats periodically.
What To Do: Fasten your seat belt! Seat belts are a primary safety feature in vehicles, proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in car accidents. Buckling up is the easiest and most effective way to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of a collision.
12. Airbag Warning Light {#airbag-warning-light}
What It Means: Usually showing the word “AIRBAG” or a stylized side profile of a person with a deployed airbag, this warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s airbag system. This system includes airbags throughout the car, seat belt pretensioners, and sensors. A malfunction could affect any part of this system, potentially preventing airbags from deploying correctly in a crash.
What To Do: An airbag malfunction is a serious safety concern. Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately to diagnose and repair the airbag system. Driving with an airbag warning light means your airbags may not deploy in an accident, reducing your protection in a collision. Do not delay in getting this safety system checked.
13. Security Indicator Light {#security-indicator-light}
What It Means: Often represented by a padlock symbol or a car silhouette with a key, the security indicator light relates to your vehicle’s anti-theft system or immobilizer. Its behavior conveys different meanings:
Blinking steadily when the car is off: This is normal and indicates that the security system is armed and actively monitoring for unauthorized entry or theft attempts.
Solid and the car won’t start: This indicates that the immobilizer system has been activated, possibly due to a perceived security threat or a system malfunction. The immobilizer is preventing the engine from starting, often because it doesn’t recognize the key being used.
Solid while driving normally: This is a malfunction. It suggests a problem within the security system that needs to be addressed.
What To Do:
Vehicle immobilized (solid light, car won’t start): Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on deactivating the security system. This may involve a specific sequence with the key or a reset procedure. If you cannot deactivate it, you may need to contact a locksmith or your dealership.
Security system malfunction (solid light while driving): Schedule a service appointment to have the security system diagnosed and repaired. A malfunctioning security system may not protect your vehicle as intended.
14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light {#fog-lamp-indicator-light}
What It Means: This symbol, showing a headlight with a wavy line through the beam, indicates that your fog lights are turned on.
What To Do: Fog lights are designed for use in conditions of reduced visibility, such as fog, heavy rain, or snow. They are aimed low to illuminate the road surface beneath the fog. Use fog lights only when visibility is significantly reduced (typically less than 100 yards). Using fog lights in clear conditions can create glare for other drivers and may be illegal in some areas. Turn them off when they are no longer needed.
15. Washer Fluid Indicator Light {#washer-fluid-indicator-light}
What It Means: Often depicted as a windshield with spray or wavy lines, this light indicates that your windshield washer fluid reservoir is low and needs refilling.
What To Do: Replenish your windshield washer fluid as soon as practical. Washer fluid is essential for maintaining clear visibility through your windshield, especially in dirty or inclement weather. Keeping the reservoir filled ensures you can clean your windshield effectively when needed, improving driving safety.
16. Brake Warning Light {#brake-warning-light}
What It Means: This light can appear as the word “BRAKE” in red or as an exclamation point within a circle, often also in red. It can indicate two main issues:
Parking brake engaged: If the light is on, first check if your parking brake is engaged. It might be partially or fully applied.
Braking system problem: If the parking brake is fully released and the light remains on, it indicates a potential problem within your braking system. This could be low brake fluid level, worn brake pads, or another issue in the hydraulic braking system.
What To Do:
Parking brake engaged: Ensure the parking brake is fully released. If the light turns off, the issue is resolved.
Braking system problem (light remains on after releasing parking brake): A brake system problem is a serious safety concern. Have your vehicle towed to a qualified repair shop for inspection and repair. Do not drive the vehicle if you suspect a brake system malfunction, as it could compromise your ability to stop safely.
17. Lane Departure Warning Light {#lane-departure-warning-light}
What It Means: This symbol, often showing a car drifting out of lane markings, indicates that your vehicle’s lane departure warning system is active and has detected that your vehicle is drifting or crossing lane markings without signaling. This is a driver-assistance safety feature designed to help prevent unintentional lane departures, particularly due to driver fatigue or distraction.
What To Do: If this light illuminates, it’s a prompt to correct your steering and ensure your vehicle is within its lane. The system is designed to alert you to unintentional drifting. If you are intentionally changing lanes and have signaled, the light should not activate, or should deactivate quickly. If the system is overly sensitive or activates frequently even when driving normally within lanes, you may want to check the system settings (if adjustable) or have it inspected for proper calibration.
18. Transmission Temperature Warning Light {#transmission-temperature-warning-light}
What It Means: This symbol, often a gear-shaped icon with a thermometer inside, is a car engine sign indicating that your vehicle’s transmission is overheating. Overheating can be caused by low transmission fluid, heavy towing, hard driving, or internal transmission problems. Transmission fluid is essential for lubrication and cooling within the transmission.
What To Do: Transmission overheating can lead to serious and expensive transmission damage. As soon as you see this light, safely pull over to the side of the road and stop the vehicle. Turn off the engine and allow the transmission to cool down. This may take 30 minutes or longer.
After the cool-down period, check your transmission fluid level if your vehicle has a dipstick for this purpose (consult your owner’s manual). If the fluid is low, adding fluid might help temporarily, but it’s crucial to identify why the fluid was low in the first place.
If the light persists after cooling down or if you suspect a more serious transmission issue, have your vehicle towed to a qualified repair shop for a thorough transmission inspection. Continuing to drive with an overheating transmission can cause significant internal damage, potentially requiring a costly transmission rebuild or replacement.
Car Trouble? We Can Help.
Dashboard warning lights are your car’s way of asking for attention. Understanding these car engine signs and other symbols is the first step in responsible car ownership. Whether it’s a minor issue or a potentially serious problem indicated by car engine signs, addressing these warnings promptly can save you from larger repairs down the road and ensure your safety.
If you’re unsure about a warning light or experiencing car trouble, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Qualified mechanics can accurately diagnose the cause of any warning light and perform the necessary repairs to get you back on the road safely and confidently. Schedule a service appointment with a trusted automotive service center to address any car engine signs or dashboard warnings your vehicle may be displaying.
