Just as our body sends signals to our brain that something is wrong to warn us, vehicles are built with similar messaging systems. Electrical signals are sent through alerts that ignite our dashboard to warn us something needs attention. The following list is comprised of 15 most common dashboard signals we should all be aware of. All cars are not built the same and may vary in the visual message on the dashboard, but it will be similar to what we have listed here. Check your car’s owner’s manual for exact symbols your car will flash when there is a call for your attention. Try not to ignore these warnings, as some can be serious!
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Antilock Brake Warning Symbol
It means there is an issue with the anti-lock brake system that needs to be diagnosed or fixed.
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Airbag Indicator Symbol
It means there is an issue with one or more of your car’s airbags or the airbag system.
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Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Warning Symbol
It means you need to engage the brake, either to start your car’s ignition or get it out of neutral.
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Battery Alert Warning Symbol
It means the car’s charging system is short of power. You are running solely on battery.
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Engine Temperature Warning Symbol
It means the engine is too hot, danger!
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Engine Warning Symbol
It could mean several things: the oxygen sensor needs replacing, the gas cap is damaged or loose or missing, the catalytic converter needs replacing, the mass airflow sensor needs replacing or the spark plugs need replacing.
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Fuel Indicator Symbol
It means you are running low on fuel. You should refuel soon.
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Fog Lamp Symbol
It means your fog lights are on.
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Oil Pressure Warning Symbol
It means your engine is running low on oil, check your car’s oil pressure system.
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Tire Pressure Warning Symbol
It means the pressure in one or more of your tires is too low and needs to be attended to.
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Traction Control Malfunction Symbol
It means there’s an issue with the anti-skid system and it may be shut off completely.
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Traction Control Warning Symbol
It means the car’s traction control system is engaged.
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Seatbelt Reminder Symbol
It means you need to buckle your seat belt please.
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Security Light Symbol
It means you may need a key with the proper transponder to trigger the ignition or something is wrong with the car’s anti-theft system.
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Washer Fluid Indicator Symbol
It means the washer fluid is low.
If your dashboard illuminates with any of these warning symbols, check in with our team at Atlantic Tire. We can verify if your car needs to be serviced to ensure you won’t have a dangerous situation on the road.
