The name of the lights on the dashboard. What lights are on the dashboard of the car and what do they mean

12.07.2019

Every year, manufacturers install on cars latest systems, as well as functions that have their own indicators and pointers, it is rather difficult to understand them. Moreover, in cars different manufacturers the same function or system may have an indicator that is completely different from the indicator in a different brand of vehicle.

This text provides a list of indicators that are used to alert the driver. It is not difficult to guess that the green indicators indicate the operation of a particular system. Yellow or red, as a rule, warn of a malfunction.

And let's look at everything designation of icons (bulbs) on dashboard :

Warning indicators

Parking brake engaged, may be low brake fluid, the possibility of a malfunction of the brake system is also not ruled out.

Red color - increased temperature of the cooling system, blue - low temperature. Flashing pointer - a malfunction in the electrics of the cooling system.

The pressure in the lubrication system (Oil Pressure) of the engine has dropped. It can also indicate a low oil level.

The engine oil level sensor (Engine Oil Sensor). The oil level (Oil Level) has fallen below the permissible value.

Voltage drop in the car network, lack of battery charge, and there may also be other malfunctions in the power supply system. The inscription MAIN is typical for cars with hybrid engine.

Indicators that inform about malfunctions and are related to security systems

A warning signal to the driver, in the event of an abnormal situation (a sharp drop in oil pressure or an open door, etc.), is usually accompanied by an explanatory text message on the instrument panel display.

Failure in the electronic stabilization system.

Pillow System Malfunctions passive safety(Supplemental Restraint System - SRS).

The indicator informs about the deactivation of the airbag in front of the seated passenger (Side Airbag Off).

Passenger Air Bag indicator, this indicator will turn off automatically. If an adult sits on the seat, and the “AIRBAG OFF” indicator indicates a malfunction in the system.

The side airbag system (Roll Sensing Curtain Airbags - RSCA) does not work, which are triggered when the car rolls over. All rollover prone vehicles are equipped with such a system. The reason for turning off the system may be off-road driving, large body rolls can trigger the operation of the system's sensors.

The Pre Collision or Crash System (PCS) has failed.

Immobilizer or anti-theft system activation indicator.

Warns of malfunctions of the anti-theft system or a malfunction in its operation.

Malfunction or overheating of the automatic transmission or other parts of the transmission.

A description of this malfunction should be found in the owner's manual for the car.

It occurs most often on sports cars and indicates that there is a malfunction in one of the transmission units, and overheating can also cause the indicator to work. There is a danger that the car will become uncontrollable.

The temperature in the automatic transmission has exceeded the allowable temperature (Automatic Transmission - A/T). It is highly discouraged to continue driving until the automatic transmission has cooled down.

Electrical fault in automatic transmission (Automatic Transmission - AT). It is not recommended to continue moving.

The automatic transmission lock mode indicator (A / T Park - P) in the “P” position “parking” is often installed on vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive and having a lower row in transfer case. The automatic transmission is blocked when the four-wheel drive mode switch is in the (N) position.

Malfunction in the electric or power steering.

activated hand brake.

The brake fluid level has dropped below the permissible level.

Fault in ABS (Antilock Braking System) or this system disabled on purpose.

Brake pad wear has reached its limit.

The brake force distribution system is faulty.

Breakdown of the electrical system parking brake.

When the ignition is on, informs about the need to press the brake pedal in order to unlock the automatic transmission gear selector.

Warns of a drop in air pressure of more than 25% of the nominal value, in one or more wheels.

At running engine warns of the need to diagnose the motor and its systems. It may be accompanied by the shutdown of some vehicle systems until the malfunctions are corrected. The EPC power control system (Electronic Power Control -) will forcibly reduce the fuel supply when a malfunction is detected in the engine.

A green indicator of the Start-Stop system indicates that the engine is turned off, and yellow indicates a malfunction in the system.

Reduced engine power for any reason. Stopping the motor and restarting after about 10 seconds can sometimes solve the problem.

Malfunctions in the transmission electronics or engine operation. May inform about a malfunction of the injection system or immobilizer.

The oxygen sensor (lambda probe) is dirty or out of order. It is not advisable to continue driving, since this sensor has a direct effect on the operation of the injection system.

Overheating or faulty catalytic converter. Usually accompanied by a drop in engine power.

Cover needs to be checked fuel tank.

Informs the driver when another indicator light comes on or when a new message appears on the instrument cluster display. Signals the need to perform some service functions.

Informs that the driver must refer to the car's operating instructions in order to decipher the message that appears on the dashboard display.

The coolant level in the engine cooling system is below the permissible level.

Broken electronic throttle valve(ETC).

Disabled or faulty tracking system (Blind Spot - BSM) behind the invisible zones.

The time has come for the scheduled maintenance car, (OIL CHANGE) oil change, etc. In some vehicles, the first light indicates a more serious problem.

The engine intake air filter is dirty and needs to be replaced.

The night vision system has malfunctioned (Night View) / burned out infrared sensors.

The overdrive overdrive (O / D) in the automatic transmission is turned off.

Crisis Assistance and Stabilization Systems

Traction control indicators (Traction and Active Traction Control, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Traction Control System (TCS)): green informs that the system is working in this moment; yellow - the system is offline or has failed. Since it is connected to the brake system and the fuel supply system, malfunctions in these systems can cause it to turn off.

Help systems for emergency braking(Electronic Stability Program - ESP) and stabilization (Brake Assist System- BAS) are interconnected. This indicator informs about problems in one of them.

Breakdown in the kinetic suspension stabilization system (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System - KDSS).

Indicators for hill descent/ascent, cruise control, and start assist.

The stability control system is disabled. It is also automatically deactivated when the " check engine". Each manufacturer calls the stabilization system differently: Automatic Stability Control (ASC), AdvanceTrac, Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Interactive Vehicle Dynamics (IVD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), StabiliTrak, Vehicle Dynamic Control(VDC), Precision Control System (PCS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Vehicle Dynamics Control Systems (VDCS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), etc. When wheel slip is detected, the stabilization system levels the car on the road using the brake system, suspension control and fuel supply.

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) stabilization system indicator. On vehicles from some manufacturers, this indicator indicates Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR).

The system needs diagnostics or four-wheel drive is involved.

Failure in the emergency braking assistance system Brake Assist System (BAS). This failure entails the deactivation of the Electronic Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) system.

The Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system is deactivated, this system is able to independently apply the brake system before a collision if an obstacle occurs dangerously close to the car. If the system is turned on and the indicator is lit, then the laser sensors of the system are dirty or out of order.

An indicator that informs the driver that the slip of the car has been detected and the stabilization system has started working.

The stabilization system is not functioning or is defective. The car drives normally, but there is no electronic assistance.

Additional and special systems indicators

The electronic key is missing / present in the car.

The first icon - the electronic key is not in the car. The second - the key is found, but the key battery needs to be replaced.

Snow Mode is activated, this mode supports upshifts when starting off and driving.

An indicator that prompts the driver to take a break from driving. On some vehicles, accompanied by a text message on the display or an audible signal.

Informs about a dangerous reduction in the distance to the car in front or that there are obstacles on the way. On some vehicles it may be part of the Cruise Control system.

The indicator of easy access to the car is equipped with a system for adjusting the height of the body position above the road.

The adaptive cruise control (Adaptive Cruise Control - ACC) or cruise control (Cruise Control) is activated, the system maintains the necessary speed in order to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. A flashing indicator informs you of a system malfunction.

Heating indicator lamp rear window. The lamp is on when the ignition is on, indicating that the rear window is heated. Turns on with the corresponding button.

The brake system is activated (Brake Hold). Release will occur when the gas pedal is pressed.

Comfort mode and sports mode shock absorbers (Sport Suspension Setting / Comfort Suspension Setting).

On vehicles equipped air suspension, this indicator indicates the height of the body above the road. The highest position in this case(HEIGHT HIGH).

Check Suspension - CK SUSP. Reports possible malfunctions in the chassis, warns of the need to check it.

The Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) is faulty or disabled, the cause may be contamination of the radar sensors.

Trailer mode activated (Tow Mode).

Parking assistance system (Park Assist). Green color - the system is active. Yellow - a malfunction has occurred or the system sensors are dirty.

Lane Departure Warning Indicator - LDW, Lane Keeping Assist - LKA, or Lane Departure Prevention - LDP. A yellow flashing light warns that the vehicle is moving left or right out of its lane. Sometimes accompanied by an audible signal. Solid yellow indicates a fault. Green The system is on.

A breakdown in the Start / Stop system, which is capable of turning off the engine in order to save fuel, when stopping at a red traffic light, and starting the engine again by pressing the gas pedal.

Fuel economy mode is activated.

The vehicle has been put into economic movement(ECO MODE).

Tells the driver when it is best to switch to overdrive, in order to save fuel, is present on cars that have a manual transmission.

The transmission has switched to rear-wheel drive mode.

The transmission is in rear-wheel drive mode, but if necessary, the electronics automatically turn on all-wheel drive.

All-wheel drive mode is enabled.

All-wheel drive mode is activated with a lowering row in the transfer case.

The central differential is locked, the car is in the "hard" four-wheel drive mode.

The rear cross-axle differential is locked.

Four-wheel drive is deactivated - the first indicator. In the all-wheel drive, a malfunction was detected - the second.

At running engine can inform about malfunctions of the all-wheel drive system (4 wheel drive- 4WD, All Wheel Drive - AWD), may report a discrepancy between the diameter of the wheels of the rear and front axles.

Malfunction of the all-wheel drive system (Super Handling - SH, All Wheel Drive - AWD). The differential is probably overheated.

The oil temperature in the rear differential has exceeded the permissible (Rear Differential Temperature). It is advisable to stop and wait for the differential to cool.

When the engine is running, it informs that a malfunction has occurred in the active steering system (4 Wheel Active Steer - 4WAS).

Active Steering System Problem rear wheels(Rear Active Steer - RAS) or the system is deactivated. A malfunction in the engine, suspension or brake system can cause the RAS to shut down.

The high gear pull-off function is activated. Often used on cars with automatic transmission, when driving on slippery road surfaces.

The design of modern vehicle consists of many sensors that control the operation of all vehicle systems. Information from them goes to the control unit or directly to the dashboard of the car. Designation of icons on dashboard may vary depending on the brand of the car and the type of engine, but all the main icons have the same look.

Particular attention should be paid to the symbols of serviceability. brake system, engine temperature, oil level and pressure. When such a signal lights up, it is necessary to check the serviceability of the car before driving onto public roads.

Classification of warning lights on the dashboard

Separation of pictograms is similar road signs on the road: there are forbidding, warning and informational. For the convenience of the driver, they have a different color designation:

Red pictograms are always prohibitive. The ignition of any indicator of this color indicates a major breakdown or malfunction in the engine, brakes, and security system. It is recommended to check the presence of oil, coolant and brake fluid, the readings of the on-board computer for errors.
Light icons of yellow and orange light indicate a malfunction of sensors or auxiliary systems of the machine. This does not affect safety, but leads to unpleasant consequences, engine operation in emergency mode, failure of certain devices, and deterioration in controllability. The symbolism of this group indicates the need for a visit to the service.
Green and blue light icons show correct work system and has an auxiliary function. With their help, they indicate the direction of turns, the inclusion of lighting equipment, work in eco mode, the inclusion electronic assistants driver.

To make it easier for the driver to navigate the symbols, the icons are repainted in different colors.

Designation of icons on the dashboard of the car

The meaning of all pictograms and their possible combinations can always be found in the owner's manual for your vehicle. If it was not at hand, then we will decipher the most common characters.

Serious warning signs

Let's start with the most important breakdown warning signals. It is not recommended to operate the car when they catch fire.

Signal of a malfunction of the brake system, damage to one of the circuits or a significant decrease in the level of brake fluid, excessive wear of the brake pads. The parking brake is on.

The temperature gauge in many cars is replaced by a red or blue control lamp. The optimum engine temperature is 95-107 0 C. An increase leads to the boiling of antifreeze and serious damage motor. Modern high-powered internal combustion engines are especially sensitive to overheating.

The red oiler on the dashboard of any car is responsible for the oil pressure in lubrication system. oil starvation or its insufficient pressure causes scuffing on rubbing parts and their failure. It is recommended to look at the oil level and check the operation of the oil pump.

The design of some engines has an oil level sensor that warns in a timely manner of its decrease.

The battery symbol symbolizes the voltage in the electrical network. The minimum required is 12.5 V, below which the indicator will light up. This is due to a breakdown of the generator, battery or breakage of power wires. You can assess the state of the electrical system through on-board computer. hybrid cars in the event of a traction battery malfunction, the inscription "MAIN" is added.

steering wheel and Exclamation point- This is a sign of a malfunction of the electric or hydraulic power steering.

Malfunction or incorrect operation of the automatic transmission. Manufacturers often use a red gear symbol.

Belted passenger and other symbols symbolizing the malfunction of passive safety devices. SRS - Supplemetal Restraint System - the common name for all such devices. A lit symbol means that the airbags will not deploy in an accident.

The sign lights up when the front passenger airbag is turned off manually, for example, when installing a child seat.

Warning symbols

This sign has a general hazard symbol. Usually duplicated by a message on the computer display or an additional symbol indicating a malfunction.

The orange triangle of most automakers is responsible for the proper operation of the stabilization system and directional stability.

The CHECK sign appears for any engine malfunction. Possible restriction maximum speed or decline maximum power.

Error in the anti-lock braking system ABS. It will be disabled and the brake system will continue to operate normally.

In cars that have built-in tire pressure sensors, it alerts you when the pressure drops by 20% or more.

Signal that there is a child or a passenger with a small weight in the front passenger seat. In this case, the airbag will not deploy and it would be better to deactivate it.

Malfunction active system safety and pretensioning of seat belts during a car rollover. May appear on off-road vehicles when driving over rough terrain.

Blind Spot System Error or BSM - Blind Spot Monitor. Incorrect operation of this system can mislead the driver and lead to an accident.

Coolant (coolant) level indicators. Show the minimum level of antifreeze at which normal operation of the motor is possible. Coolant top-up required.

Indication of work of stabilization systems and active assistance to the driver

DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and TCS (Traction Control System) - common name traction control systems and traction control systems. Facilitates acceleration and handling of the car. Green light - normal operation, yellow - there is a problem.

Malfunction ESP systems(Electronic Stability Program).

Forced shutdown of stabilization. This option applies to slippery surface or off-road. Automatically turns on when accelerating.

The icon notifies the driver about the disconnection or incorrect operation of the kinetic stabilization of the car's suspension. KDSS - Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

Active differential and ASR status icon. It usually lights up after a long slip in place or during active driving.

Difficulties with connecting all-wheel drive through an electromagnetic clutch in a gearbox or gearbox.

Auxiliary information icons

Signal for the inclusion of adaptive cruise control. The system independently chooses the speed of movement and the optimal distance.

Any key icon can mean the presence of an electronic key and its status.

The snowflake icon indicates the inclusion of a special Snow Mode, which helps when driving on an icy road. Found on cars with automatic transmissions.

The heated rear window is on.

The pictogram with a cup is used by manufacturers as a signal to rest after long trip. In advanced systems, scanners analyze the driver's reaction and additionally turn on an audible alarm.

Designation of the mode of shock absorbers or air suspension.

Park Assist driver assistance included. In the presence of a video camera, the image is additionally displayed on the display.

These icons are responsible for following the car strictly in its lane. If the machine is pulled to the side, the corresponding signal lights up and the buzzer or sound signal turns on.

The mode of economy of fuel and reduction of emission in the atmosphere of CO is included.

Trailer towing or TOW MODE.

Modern cars are equipped with a catalytic converter. The corresponding pictogram warns of its breakdown or overheating.

Not enough gasoline in the tank.

Add washer fluid to the windshield washer reservoir.

On an all-wheel drive vehicle, this mode symbolizes the possibility of connecting the front or rear axle in difficult conditions without a driver.

Permanent four-wheel drive is connected.

In the transfer case of the car, a reduced row is included.

blocked center differential in the distributor.

Symbol for locking the rear differential, if it is possible to force it on.

Overheating of the interaxle, interwheel differential or low oil level. Found in modern crossovers.

Symbolism of lighting devices and signaling

The symbol for turning on the headlights or the parking lights mode.

Included high beam headlights

The automatic headlight leveling device is activated.

Problems in the automatic control system luminous flux headlights

One of the lamps burned out. Lights up only on cars equipped with this function.

Front fog lamps are used.

Signal for turning on the rear foglights. All fog lamps light up after turning on the external lighting or dimensions.

Inexperienced car owners often face the problem of not understanding the signals of their vehicle. They simply do not know the designation of the icons on the instrument panel. Namely, through their machine has the ability to signal the owner about possible malfunctions or other unwanted changes. In addition, such icons may alert the motorist to the intended action required of him. Today we will try to figure out in detail what icons are on the panel and what they say to the owner.

What are the icons and what do they signal

As a rule, a lit signal becomes a cause for concern, especially if an inexperienced user is driving. In fact, the indicators are designed not only to report a malfunction, but also to warn of the most different moments. They not only notify, warn, but sometimes prohibit operation.

To begin with, you should remember the following prioritization, related not so much to the content as to the color scheme.

A green signal notifies the owner that the system corresponding to the content is up and running properly. The driver can continue driving in normal mode and not be afraid for safety.
Yellow or orange indicator reports that one of the vehicle's systems is not functioning properly. One of them may fail, most likely it does not affect the ability to move, but does not allow the car to be operated at full strength. In this case, experienced drivers advise you to slowly get to the nearest car service and show the car to a professional. Often, the car goes into a limited operation mode on its own, the driver can only move in emergency mode with low speed and control.
Red signal - danger! This also applies to the dashboard indicators. If you see a red icon, then you should stop the car. In this case, the system signals that there is a serious violation that is incompatible with operation. The best solution will call a tow truck or tow a car for service.

This is the basic information that a novice car owner should learn before figuring out what exactly this or that icon means.

Now let's get down to the description. possible signals. They can be divided into several categories, which should be analyzed separately.

Additional functions

These indicators are designed to remind the owner of necessary action, without which, at the current moment or in the future, operation will be impossible.

These are the most common signal signs worth mentioning.

Light fixtures

These designations will help you orient yourself in time and not misinform other drivers about your intentions (in the case of a turn) or save the battery level (if you turn off the outdoor lighting).

Severe danger icons

These signals are of great importance. Their presence indicates serious malfunctions in which it is not recommended to operate the car. We advise you to pay more attention to this section.

If there are such alerts, you should first fix the problem and only then operate the vehicle.

Security Alerts

This section contains the designations of icons on the instrument panel from the system responsible for the safety of the driver and passengers of the car.

The appearance of the icon accompanies a signal or voice notification. He reports that it is necessary to close one or more doors of the passenger compartment or the trunk.
This indicator reports malfunctions of the stabilization system.
The problem is caused by the passive (airbag) safety system.
The icon indicates problems similar to the previous one, but more accurately. In this case, the fault is in the front passenger airbag.
There is a child in the front passenger seat or the weight of the passenger is too low. This can cause an error in the operation of the airbag in an emergency.
The indicator often erroneously works while driving off-road. Indicates that the pre-collision system is not working.
The immobilizer or standard anti-theft system is activated.
Anti-theft system activation error.
Automatic transmission error, oil overheating.
Exceeding the limit allowable temperature in automatic transmission. It is better to wait until the gearbox has cooled down.
Automatic transmission mode "Parking". Actual for all-wheel drive vehicles with a number of reduced speeds. The machine is blocked.
If the car automatic transmission, then this icon indicates a low level or low pressure oil, overheating, or other problem. In this case, the vehicle will automatically go into emergency mode and moving on minimum speed to enable access to the service.
If you see this icon, then you need to shift to the next gear in order to save fuel.
Faulty power steering.
Handbrake engaged.
Reduced fluid level in the brake system.
High brake pad wear.
Error in the brake force distribution system.
Malfunction of the electric parking brake.
More than 25% reduced pressure in one or more wheels.
Occurs already during operation and reports that the propulsion systems have malfunctions. May be accompanied by the shutdown of a number of systems until troubleshooting. At the same time, the system limits the fuel supply to reduce the load.
The Start-Stop system is on (green) or malfunctioning (yellow).
The engine has lost power. Experienced drivers It is advised to stop the engine for a while and start again.
Problem with lambda probe. In order not to disturb the fuel injection function, it is better to turn off the engine and fix the problem.
The fuel tank cap is not closed.
An icon to draw additional attention to an existing problem.
Problems in the cooling system. The liquid level is lowered, the temperature is increased, and so on.
Throttle valve defective.
The blind spot monitoring system is malfunctioning.
The oil needs to be changed and fuel filters, and at the same time undergo scheduled maintenance. In rare cases, when these icons appear, you need to computer diagnostics vehicle.
The engine air filter needs to be replaced.
Faulty night vision system, infrared sensors.
The automatic transmission has been switched off.

Control indicators for special systems

Modern cars are equipped with a mass accessibility that make them easier to use. And so that the user can control their work, the corresponding signals light up on the panel.

Power mode is active. It is typical for vehicles with automatic transmission and is designed to delay the shift to higher speeds. Allows you to achieve maximum engine power, as well as allow time for adjustment in fuel system and suspension.
Sensors for switching modes in automatic transmission.
Steering needs repair.
Variator indicator. Lights up when the ignition is turned on and goes out after a few minutes. Indicates the health of the system.
Active Steering Sensor. Indicates incorrect operation. In some situations, this may indicate problems in the brake system or suspension.
The problem is similar to the previous one. There is a failure in the active steering system.
Overheating of the cross-axle differential, problems in the all-wheel drive system.
In the all-wheel drive system, a malfunction or the diameter of the wheels of the rear and front axles does not match.
Malfunctions in the transmission of an all-wheel drive vehicle.
The interwheel differential of the rear axle is blocked.
All wheel drive low gear included.
The transmission automatically switches to all-wheel drive mode.
Shift up to save fuel.
Fuel saving mode ECO MODE is active.
The fuel consumption optimization mode is on.
Lane tracking system indicators. A flashing yellow signal indicates that the machine is moving to the side and needs to be leveled, or the system is faulty.
Active or faulty system parking assistance (depending on color).
Trailer mode is on.
The running gear of the car is faulty, diagnostics is required.
shock absorber modes.
The heated rear window works.
The brake system is active, it will turn off after pressing the gas pedal.
Adaptive cruise control is on. If the icon is flashing, there is a problem with the system.
The presence of an obstacle or a vehicle ahead with active cruise control.
Snow mode is activated. Required for comfortable ride in unusual conditions of snowfall and ice.
The presence of an electronic key and the sparseness of its battery.
Electronic key in the car (present or absent).

We gave examples of the most common indicators and painted in detail the designations of the icons on the instrument panel. In fact, there are many more. If the color scheme is identical everywhere, then the pictograms may differ depending on the manufacturer, engine type, and so on. It is simply impossible to cover all possible images in one article. Therefore, if you are interested in an icon that was not on the list, write to us in the comments, and we will give a detailed answer to the request. But remember that safety is above all, and if the system flashes red, it is better to contact a specialist immediately.

Modern cars notify the motorist of a malfunction using icons on the instrument panel. Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to decipher some icons without a hint. In addition, on different models, the designation of one error may differ. It must be borne in mind that not every lamp notifies of a critical malfunction.

In general, the indication can be divided into 3 groups:

Red icons usually warn of a critical problem that you want to fix as soon as possible.

yellow icons usually warn of a malfunction or the need to take some action on the car, such as service.

Greens the icons inform about the activity of the service functions of the vehicle.

Note. When starting the engine, the icons first light up and then go out. When buying a used car, indicators can alert you that the car has been in an accident. For example, an unlit airbag light during a verification test indicates that the car has been in an accident or indicates a malfunction of the airbags.

We have prepared for you 100 main indications that most often appear on the dashboard. Pictures are clickable.

Liked the article? Save yourself! 3543 05.01.2018

Drivers are notified of the presence of a malfunction various systems vehicle using the icons on the instrument panel. It is not always possible to decipher the meaning of such burning icons intuitively, since not all motorists are well versed in cars. In addition, on different cars, the graphic designation of the same icon may differ. It is worth noting that not every light on the panel only indicates a critical malfunction. The indication of the light bulbs under the icons is divided by color into 3 groups:

Red icons indicate danger, and if any symbol lights up in this color, you should pay attention to the on-board computer signal in order to take quick troubleshooting steps. Sometimes they are not so critical, and it is possible to continue driving the car when such an icon on the panel is on, and sometimes it is not worth it.
Yellow indicators warn of a malfunction or the need to take some action to drive the car or service it.
The green indicator lamps inform about the service functions of the car and their activity.

Let's present a list of the most frequently asked questions and a decoding of the icons and indicators on the instrument panel.

Many badges with emblem-silhouette of the car are applied. Depending on the additional elements, this indicator may have a different meaning.

When this indicator is lit ( car with key), then it informs about malfunctions in the operation of the engine (often a malfunction in the operation of any sensor) or the electronic part of the transmission. To find out the exact cause, you will need to perform diagnostics.

caught fire red car with lock, which means that there are problems in the operation of the standard anti-theft system and it will be impossible to start the car, but if this icon blinks when the car is closed, then everything is normal - the car is locked.

Yellow exclamation mark machine indicator notifies the driver of a hybrid vehicle of an electric drive failure. Resetting the error by dropping the battery terminal will not solve the problem - diagnostics are needed.

Icon open door everyone is used to seeing it burning when a door or trunk lid is open, but if all the doors are closed and the light with one or four doors continues to shine, then often the problem should be looked for in the door switches (wire contacts).

Slippery road icon starts flashing when the stability control detects a section slippery road and is activated to prevent spinning by reducing engine power and braking the spinning wheel. There is no need to worry in such a situation. But when a key, a triangle or a crossed-out skid icon appeared near such an indicator, then the stabilization system is faulty.

wrench icon pops up on the scoreboard when it's time to produce Maintenance car. It is an informational indicator and is reset after maintenance.

Warning icons on the panel

Steering wheel icon can light up in two colors. If the yellow steering wheel is on, then adaptation is required, and when a red image of the steering wheel with an exclamation mark appears, it is already worth worrying about the failure of the power steering or EUR system. When the red steering wheel is lit, it is likely that your steering wheel will become very difficult to turn.

immobilizer icon, as a rule, blinks if the car is closed; in this case, the indicator of a red car with a white key signals the operation of the anti-theft system. But there are 3 main reasons if the immo light is constantly on: the immobilizer is not activated, if the label from the key is not read or the anti-theft system is faulty.

handbrake icon lights up not only when the handbrake lever is activated (raised), but also in cases where the brake pads are worn out or the brake fluid needs to be topped up / replaced. On a car with an electronic handbrake, the parking brake light may light up due to a glitch in the limit switch or sensor.

coolant icon has several options and, depending on which one is on, draw conclusions about the problem accordingly. One red lamp with the image of a thermometer scale indicates elevated temperature in the engine cooling system, but the yellow expansion tank with waves indicates a low coolant level in the system. But it is worth considering that the coolant lamp does not always burn at a low level, perhaps just a “glitch” of the sensor or float in the expansion tank.

washer icon indicates low fluid levels. expansion tank glass washer. Such an indicator lights up not only with a real decrease in the level, but also if the level sensor is clogged (sensor contacts are covered with plaque due to low-quality liquid), giving a false signal. On some vehicles, the level sensor is triggered when the washer fluid specification does not match.

ASR badge- This is an indicator of the anti-spin system (Anti-Spin Regulation). The electronic unit of this system is paired with ABS sensors. When such a light is constantly on, it means that the ASR is not working. On different cars, such an icon may look different, but often in the form of an exclamation mark in a triangle with an arrow around or the inscription itself, or in the form of a car on a slippery road.

Catalyst Icon often lights up when the catalytic element is overheated and is often accompanied by sharp drop engine power. Such overheating can occur not only due to poor bandwidth cells, but also if there are problems in the ignition system. When the catalyst fails, then to the burning light bulb will be added high flow fuel.

Icon traffic fumes according to the information from the manual, it indicates a malfunction in the exhaust gas cleaning system, but, as a rule, such a light starts to burn after bad refueling or the presence of an error on the lambda probe sensor. The system registers misfires in the mixture, as a result of which the content of harmful substances in the exhaust gases and, as a result, the "exhaust gases" light is on on the dashboard. The problem is not critical, but diagnostics should be done to find out the cause.

Malfunction indicators

battery icon lights up when the voltage drops onboard network, often such a problem is associated with a lack of charge battery from the generator, so it may also be called the "generator icon". On vehicles with a hybrid engine, this indicator is supplemented by the inscription "MAIN" at the bottom.

oil icon, also known as a red oiler - indicates a drop in the oil level in the car engine. Such an icon lights up when the engine is started, and does not go out after a few seconds or may light up while driving. This fact indicates problems in the lubrication system or a drop in oil level or pressure. The oil icon on the panel can be with a droplet or with waves at the bottom, on some cars the indicator is supplemented with the inscription min, senso, oil level (inscriptions yellow color) or simply the letters L and H (characterizing low and high level oils).

pillow icon can light up in several ways: both the red inscription SRS and AIRBAG, and the “red man fastened seat belt”, and in front of him is a circle. When one of these airbag icons is lit on the panel, this is the on-board computer notifying you of a malfunction in the passive safety system, and in the event of an accident, the airbags will not work. The reasons why the pillow sign lights up, and how to fix the problem, read the article on the site.

Exclamation mark icon may look different and its meanings, respectively, will also be different. So, for example, when the red (!) in the circle is on, this indicates a malfunction of the brake system and it is advisable not to continue driving until the cause of its appearance is clarified. They can be very different: the hand brake is raised, the brake pads are worn out, or the brake fluid level has dropped. A low level is just dangerous, because the reason can be not only in heavily worn pads, as a result of which, when you press the pedal, the liquid diverges through the system, and the float gives a signal of a low level, it can be damaged somewhere brake hose, and this is much more serious. Although, very often the exclamation mark lights up if the float (level sensor) is out of order or shorted out, and then it just lies. On some cars, the exclamation mark is accompanied by the inscription "BRAKE", but this does not change the essence of the problem.

More exclamation mark can burn in the form of a sign "attention", moreover, both on a red background and on a yellow one. When caught fire yellow sign“Attention” - it reports a malfunction in the electronic stabilization system, and if it is on a red background, it simply warns the driver about something, and, as a rule, explanatory text is lit on the dashboard display or combined with other informative designation.

ABS icon may have several display options on the dashboard, but regardless of this, it means the same thing on all cars - a malfunction in the ABS system, and that the anti-lock wheel system is not working at the moment. You can find out the reasons why the ABS does not work in our article. In this case, the movement can be made, but it is not necessary to count on the operation of the ABS, the brakes will work as usual.

ESP badge It can either light up intermittently or burn constantly. A light bulb with such an inscription indicates problems with the stabilization system. The Electronic Stability Program indicator, as a rule, lights up for one of two reasons - either the steering angle sensor is out of order, or the brake light switch on sensor (aka “frog”) ordered to live for a long time. Although, there is a more serious problem, for example, the brake system pressure sensor has covered itself.

Engine icon, some drivers may call it an "injector icon" or check, it may light up yellow when the engine is running. It informs about the presence of engine errors and its malfunction. electronic systems. To determine the cause of its appearance on the dashboard display, self-diagnosis or computer diagnostics are performed.

glow plug icon can light up on the dashboard of a diesel car, the meaning of such an indicator is exactly the same as the “check” icon on gasoline cars. When there are no errors in the memory of the electronic unit, the spiral icon should go out after the engine warms up and the glow plugs are turned off.

This material is informative for most car owners. And although absolutely all possible icons of all existing machines, You will be able to independently understand the basic designations of the dashboard of a car, and do not sound the alarm when you see that the icon on the panel is lit again.

Listed below are almost all possible indicators on the instrument panel and from the meaning