6 Important Car Warning Signs On The Dashboard

Updated Apr 12, 2017 | Same topic: Let's Drive Smart!

Do you know that there are more than 150 car warning signs nowadays? Even though your car may not possess all of them, it would be better for us to know the meaning of some common signs to ensure your driving safety and your vehicle’s condition as well.
Their appearance on the dashboard may indicate some car problems.

Before finding out the warning signs’ meaning, the first important thing to notice is their color. Different colors of warning signs show different levels of attention.

A green or blue sign shows you the basic information about the vehicle (how and what system is operating).

If you see a yellow or orange symbol appear on the dashboard, it means that some parts of your vehicle need repairing as soon as possible.

The most cautionary warning is the red symbol telling you about a potentially serious problem or safety issue that must be handled immediately.

In this article, we will grasp the meaning of some “hot color” signs in order that drivers can make sense and drive safely.

1. Seat Belt Reminder Indicator
 
Seat Belt Reminder Indicator

This symbol appears when you’re not wearing the seat belt

 
This symbol appears when you’re not wearing the seat belt and it simply wants you to put on your seat belt. Attend to it!

2. Airbag Indicator
Airbag indicator sign indicates that there is a problem with the airbags in your car. Therefore, you should take your car to a service center immediately or the air bags can go off anytime.
 
Airbag Indicator

Airbag indicator sign indicates that there is a problem with the airbags in your car. 
 
Furthermore, when the indicator is on, it also means that the airbags have been turned off manually by someone and will not deploy if a collision happens.

3. ABS Indicator
The ABS system has the function of keeping your car from skidding out of control during braking in some emergencies by limiting your wheels from locking up.
 
Airbag indicator sign

Airbag indicator sign indicates that there is a problem with the airbags in your car. 
 
If ABS warning appears during normal driving, this system has malfunctioned and your car should soon be brought to your dealer or service center.
 
4. Temperature Warning Light
Temperature warning is a special sign because it can turn red or blue. In red, its meaning is quite simply that the engine temperature is too high now, so you had better stop your vehicle and instantly turn the engine off.
In blue, it indicates that the coolant temperature is below required level.
 
Temperature Warning Light in blue

In blue, it indicates that the coolant temperature is below required level.

 
If the light turns red then blue steadily, the cooling system of your vehicle is likely malfunctioning. Again, contact the service center immediately.

5. Transmission Warning Indicator
 
Transmission Warning Indicator

Transmission Warning Indicator warns you about an actual transmission system failure. 
 
This light warns you about an actual transmission system failure. The light blinks if this failure occurs and you can’t drive your vehicle.

If this sign comes on very often, your transmission or the clutch can be overheated. Therefore, it is advisable to idle your vehicle until the sign disappears.

>>> View more: Some habits accidentally shorten the life expectancy of transmission

6. Brake Warning Light

 
Brake warning light

This sign indicates a serious brake failure 

 
The appearance of this warning on the dashboard could indicate a serious brake failure like engaged parking brake. So, release it, then bring your vehicle to a maintenance center as soon as possible or contact your dealer.
To continue driving could be dangerous.