Car Dashboard Symbols And Meanings

Posted on: Jul 26, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Car Dashboard Symbols And Meanings

Even the simplest of the simple vehicles run on complicated mechanisms. You need to monitor every aspect to ensure and enjoy a smooth ride. However, sometimes if anything is not working right, the car will automatically show certain warning symbols for you to address the issue promptly. You need to understand the meanings of these symbols to seek a proper solution to the problem(s).

What are car warning symbols?

Car warning symbols are specifically designed indicators alerting the driver regarding the issues developing in the system of the concerned vehicle. It is like a special communication system conveying a significant message regarding any amiss that requires immediate attention.

1. Car dashboard warning lights play a significant role in maintaining the optimal functioning of the vehicle. As soon as there is some issue, these lights will alert you so that you can get it rectified on time.

2. To make the indication clear, these lights are of varied colors. These colors reveal the level of seriousness of the issue. Some of the most commonly used light colors are red, orange, blue, and yellow.

3. If the color is red, then the issue is pretty advanced and requires immediate attention. To ensure safety, it is best to address the problem at the earliest.

4. If the color is yellow/orange/amber, it means that the problem requires fast but not necessarily immediate action. However, further delays may aggravate the issue. So, it is best to get it done when the problems are low.

5. The blue/green color means that there is no problem and does not require any special attention.

Why are car dashboard warning symbols important?

As the times are advancing, the vehicle mechanisms are also getting more and more complicated. We are witnessing a drastic increase in various sensors and indicators usage. Some of the most important reasons why the car dashboard warning lights are essential include:

1. Creating alerts for the driver:

Car dashboard warning lights are the primary indicator of any developing issue in the car. This makes the driver aware to address the issue(s) at the earliest to enjoy a smooth ride.

2. Safety mechanism:

If any problem in the vehicle remains and goes unnoticed, it may eventually prove to be a safety hazard for the users of the vehicle concerned. However, these car dashboard symbols and lights act as a reliable but primary safety mechanism so that you notice the issue and address it well.

3. Cost-efficient:

If you notice a warning sign and get the necessary repairs done at the earliest, it may save your pocket from the future hazards of expensive repairs.

4. Saves your vehicle:

The car dashboard signals save your vehicle by giving you early signals of any developing issue. This helps you to address the issue at the right time.

Car dashboard symbols and meanings

Some of the common meanings of car dashboard warning signs are as follows:

1. Engine light check:

The “check engine light” symbol is an indicator of the yellow color present on the dashboard. This implies that there is an issue with either the emission system or the engine. It generally develops due to loose caps of gas, spark plugs, oxygen sensors, etc. If you see this light, it is best to stop and check if the gas cap is loose or not. In case of absence of any visible issue, get it checked by any professional.

2. Oil pressure check:

The purpose of engine oil is to lubricate the engine and absorb friction so that the engine runs smoothly. You need to maintain the specified amount of engine oil for a hassle-free run. If the oil pressure falls below the necessary level, the oil pressure check warning light starts flashing. This is for you to notice the issue and address it accordingly. However, sometimes this light even flashes when the levels are normal. Under such circumstances, you have to check for any leakage and get it corrected as soon as possible.

3. Battery system indicator:

In case the serpentine cables or the cables of the battery get damaged, then this indicator flashes. If this happens, you need to fix this immediately.

4. Brake system indicator:

This is very crucial to notice as the safety of the vehicle and the passengers depend a lot on brakes. You must maintain premium conditions throughout to avoid any safety hazards. If the handbrake remains engaged, then this light flashes. However, if that isn’t the case, then it indicates there is a problem with the braking mechanism. The reasons are varied like low brake oil, loose brake pads, etc. You must seek professional guidance and fix the issue promptly.

Some other significant warning lights that you need to monitor include:

1. Glow plug warning

2. Diesel particulate filter warning

3. Power steering warning

4. Fuel warning

5. ESC warning light

6. High beam indicator

7. Door indicators

8. Adaptive cruise control indicator

Steps to follow when the instrument panel warning light goes on

When any indicator light flashes, you need to follow these steps:

1. Never rush or be impulsive

2. Identify the light indicator well to administer the level of urgency of the issue

3. Follow the car manual to understand the specific meaning of the concerned indicating light

4. In the case of any red indicating signal, shut off the engine immediately and pull over

5. If the colour of the warning symbol light is either yellow/amber/orange, take your vehicle to the nearest workshop to get the issue fixed by experts

6. You must never ignore any warning light, irrespective of the colour. It must be addressed and fixed according to the level of urgency to ensure safety.

FAQs

1. Which sort of warning indicators are serious?

Some of the most serious dashboard warning lights include, ABS indicator, oil pressure indicator, engine temperature indicator, and engine light. However, the fuel indicator is also important.

2. What is meant by ‘hazard car lights’?

This is a special indicator light that you need to turn on when your vehicle is temporarily parked somewhere, indicating that it is stationary for the time being.

3. What to do if any indicator light continuously flashes?

It is an indication that the issue is serious. You must address it promptly and rush to the nearest workshop to get it checked and repaired accordingly.

Conclusion

We have aptly highlighted that car dashboard warning lights are very essential and you must never ignore them. It holds the secret to maintaining the safety and security of both the driver and the passengers. However, accidents are unprecedented. To handle such contingencies smoothly, it is essential to invest in proper car insurance, that will act as a protective guard. It can be a basic third-party car insurance or a broader comprehensive plan, considering your needs and budget.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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