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. In addition, on vehicles from different manufacturers, the same function or system may have an indicator that is completely different from the indicator on a car of another brand.
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
Involved parking brake 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 a hybrid engine.
Indicators that inform about malfunctions and are related to security systems
Warning signal for the driver, in case of an emergency situation ( sharp drop oil pressure or 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.
Occurs most often on sports cars and signals that there is a malfunction in one of the transmission units, overheating may 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 reduction row in the transfer case. The automatic transmission is blocked when the mode switch all-wheel drive located in position (N).
Malfunction in the electric or power steering.
Handbrake activated.
The brake fluid level has dropped below the permissible level.
Fault in ABS system(Antilock Braking System) or this system is disabled intentionally.
Wear brake pads reached the limit.
The brake force distribution system is faulty.
Failure of the electric parking brake system.
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.
When the engine is running, it warns of the need to diagnose the engine 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.
Dirty or out of order oxygen sensor(Lambda probe). 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.
The fuel tank cap needs to be checked.
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.
The electronic throttle valve (ETC) has failed.
Disabled or faulty tracking system (Blind Spot - BSM) behind the invisible zones.
The time has come for scheduled maintenance of the 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.
Emergency braking assistance systems (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).
Downhill/uphill system indicators, support systems constant speed and start assist systems.
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 some makes of vehicles, this indicator indicates an Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and traction control system 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 sound 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.
activated adaptive cruise control(Adaptive Cruise Control - ACC) or cruise control (Cruise Control), the system maintains the required speed in order to maintain safe distance to the vehicle in front. A flashing indicator informs you of a system malfunction.
Lamp-indicator of inclusion of heating of back glass. The lamp is on when the ignition is on, indicating that it is heated rear glass. 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 Tracking System Indicator ( 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 switched to ECO MODE.
Prompts the driver when it is better to shift to a higher gear in order to save fuel, it is present on cars that have a manual transmission.
The transmission has switched to rear wheel drive.
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.
When the engine is running, it can inform about problems with 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.
Oil temperature in rear differential exceeded the allowable (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).
Rear Active Steer (RAS) malfunction 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 vehicles with automatic transmission when driving on slippery road surfaces.
Many car owners believe that a car is just a piece of iron that cannot speak and does not convey any emotions. This is far from true. Remember the fun game of loose cargo in the trunk, rumbles on bumps, creaking hinges or the tired click of an engine when long trip. Every car has a dashboard that shows the current state of the car. To control this process, each driver must know the designation of the icons on the instrument panel in his car.
Why icons are needed
By definition, a dashboard is a place where various gauges and control devices. Until relatively recently, there were few meters, pointers and indicators on it, so it was easy to deal with them. However, as automobiles improved, new signs appeared on the dashboard, which turned into a difficult task for drivers, representing Chinese literacy.
This is only a small part of the existing indicators. If you can’t remember them right away, then don’t be upset, as not everyone can do it.
The difficulty lies in the fact that for each car there is a separate set of icons that are displayed on the instrument panel.
Color matters
The color of the indicator plays a major role in determining the condition of the vehicle. So, among them are the following:
- Green. Shows the driver that the devices and components of the car are functioning normally.
- Red. Notifies you of emergency and important events, as well as the presence of serious problems.
- Yellow. It warns that one or another detail needs to be paid attention to.
- Blue. Provided for certain systems in normal mode.
Red or yellow flowers should normally go out a couple of seconds after starting the engine. If the lights stay on all the time, then there is a problem.
Second in importance is the oil pressure symbol. His picture:
When this icon lights up, you must immediately check the presence of oil in the engine, make sure there is no leakage. It is better not to continue driving, but to get to the nearest car service to identify existing problems with the help of a tow truck.
It is the red color of the indicator that indicates an emergency situation on board the vehicle. Yellow is the second most important. For example, the CHECK icon on the panel. 
In this case, the situation is somewhat simpler. This symbol indicates problems with the injector that require action.
All other indicator colors serve as simple informative ones. For example, the blue icon is an indicator of an enabled high beam. The glow on the dashboard of these icons does not mean anything terrible, often they simply inform about the inclusion of lighting devices.
Let's proceed, in fact, to the indicators themselves on the dashboard. We start the enumeration with more important and significant characters, and then we will show them in decreasing order.
Critical indicators
The symbol indicates a problem with the brake system. In normal mode, it lights up with the parking brake.
Shows temperature regime engine operation. If the indicator is red, then it is increased, and blue - it is reduced. In this case, stop and turn off the engine. Blinking can symbolize electrical problems. 
Indicates pressure drop in the lubrication system or low oil level.
Oil pressure sensor. Lights up when the level is low. 
These indicators show low voltage mains, lack of battery charging or other malfunctions, usually with a generator. 
Security indicators
Icons that are lit in red indicate that you need to urgently contact the service. Here is a list of them in order of importance:
The symbol is associated with reminders, for example, the door is not closed or an oil change is required.
This icon is used to enable the driver to see faults in the vehicle's control system. You can continue driving the car carefully to the nearest car service.
Airbag malfunction indicators. Signal about belt tension or its absence. If you have never been in an accident and airbags have not been applied, and the icons are still on, then you should go to a car service.
Control system icons
Modern innovative developments on the dashboard of a car combine old systems, such as anti-lock assistant, and new ones, such as stability control. Each of them is equipped with its own indicators.
Traction control icons. Green color indicates its serviceability, and yellow color indicates failure or shutdown. 
Icon for assistance in descent or ascent in places with a slope of the terrain. 
Turn icon. Present in all-wheel drive vehicles, provided that the sensor is active.
Help during emergency braking.
There is a defect in the suspension.
Additional Function Symbols
Indicators of this group are shown with special additional automotive features. If they are active, the green light will turn on. When a malfunction occurs, the indicators are displayed in yellow or red.
Savings indicators
Instrument panel indicators VAZ 2114
Dashboards different cars can be completely different, as a rule, the indicators are also different. In the VAZ 2114 car there are many sensors and icons that help in managing instruments and systems. Here are the most important ones:
Pointer sensor with right side symbolizes the speed of the car. The speedometer is designed for speeds from 0 to 200 km/h. The division value of the speedometer is 10 km/h.
In the center, under the speedometer, an electronic display is provided, where the total mileage is indicated at the top, and the current mileage at the bottom. 
The gauge on the left is called the tachometer. It shows the current crankshaft speed. To obtain real indicators, it is necessary to multiply the readings by 100. If the values \u200b\u200bare up to 60, then this is a critical mark. Values from 60 to 80 are shown in red and indicate the possibility of a vehicle failure.
Below is the time and temperature icon in the cabin. On the left side is a dial gauge showing the temperature of the coolant.
To the right of the speedometer there is an indicator that shows the level of fuel in the car's tank. The numbers indicate:
- 0 - empty tank.
- 1/2 - half.
- 1 - complete.
In addition, the symbol of the gas station at the top shows a full tank, and if at the bottom it lights up orange, it shows less than 6 liters in the tank.
Badges in cars with diesel fuel
The following icons are provided in cars with diesel fuel. Their designation is as follows:
External lighting fixtures
Useful indicators for the machine
Additional system indicators
Be carefull
Thus, the main task of dashboard lights is:
- Inform the driver about the performance of the devices.
- Report any problems in a timely manner.
Regular service and inspection will help keep your vehicle safe from any kind of malfunction, so you should always keep an eye on the indicators and icons on the instrument panel to stay aware of the operation of the systems.
Regardless of whether or not you know the meaning of the indicators on the car dashboard, the appearance of yellow and red icons leads to the establishment of causes and at least a visit to a car service.
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.
One of my old friends recently bought a new car. After a week of operating the car, I began to call several times a day and ask what the icon on the dashboard that lit up on the dashboard means. By the way, among the newly minted owners of modern cars, this is not an isolated case. Lots of car enthusiasts getting behind the wheel of a new modern machine, and seeing on the tidy that the indicator lights up, they immediately get scared and think that there has been a breakdown in some system, but in fact, this is not always the case.
Indicators notify the driver not only about malfunctions, but also about one or another action that a person driving a car must perform. Signals on the dashboard can be compared to road signs, which are warning and prohibitive.
Indicators on the dashboard can be divided into several categories and subcategories.
And so, what you should know and remember. If a red icon with any icon lights up on the device, it is highly likely that there is a problem in the car, with which its operation is extremely undesirable, and can lead to serious consequences. In this case, you should immediately stop, turn off the engine and tow or transport the car on a tow truck to the service.
If the yellow or orange indicator lights up on the dashboard, which is a warning about the malfunction or failure of the controlling element of one of the automotive systems without delay, show the car to a specialist who will determine the problem in order to fix it. In this case, the operation of the car is allowed in a limited mode, only for independent movement to the car service. On some cars, after a warning signal appears on the dashboard, the full operation of many systems is blocked and the car goes into emergency mode, in which the speed and control of the power unit will be limited.
An illuminated green icon on the dashboard indicates that a certain system is on and functioning normally, therefore, it is safe to continue driving.
I hope that you understand the main categories of indicators on the dashboard of a car. If there are no questions, we move on and consider specifically each icon, its designation and what it signals.
Deciphering the icons on the dashboard
Important icons on the dashboard, under which the operation of the car is not recommended
The handbrake is on or the brake fluid level in the system is below the permissible level. Also, this indicator may indicate a malfunction of the brake system itself, depressurization, pad wear, etc.
The indicator with a red battery that lights up indicates the absence or malfunction in the power supply of the generator-battery circuit. The indicator, on which, in addition to the battery, there is also the inscription “MAIN”, as a rule, indicates problems with battery charging on hybrid vehicles.
The appearance of this lit indicator on the scoreboard is usually accompanied by a buzzer sound message or a voice message. The danger icon indicates that an emergency situation has occurred in the car, one or more doors, the hood, etc. are not closed.
The danger indicator in the orange triangle informs the driver about malfunctions in the stabilization system.
The problem with SRS is Supplemental Restraint System, which, translated into Russian, indicates a malfunction in the passive safety system, or, as the airbags are also called.
Indicators similar in informativeness to the previous ones, they only indicate that the airbags front passenger does not work.
There is also an indicator of the passive safety system, which signals the driver that there is a child or a person with a small weight in the front seat, which can cause the front passenger airbag to fail to deploy in case of an accident.
The Pre Collision or Crash System (PCS), which is activated when the vehicle rolls over, does not work. In some cases, the indicator may come on during or after off-road driving.
Pre Collision or Crash System (PCS) not working
This indicator lights up when the immobilizer or standard anti-theft system is activated.
Error when turning on the standard anti-theft system or its non-working state.
Problems with automatic transmission - oil overheating, errors in the automatic transmission control unit, failure.
A description of this malfunction should be found in the owner's manual for the car.
These indicators are found on vehicles with automatic transmission (Automatic Transmission - A / T) and signal an increase in the maximum allowable temperature in it, which can lead to failure of the automatic transmission. Movement in this case is highly undesirable, it is recommended to wait until the box has cooled down.
The appearance of this icon also indicates (Automatic Transmission - AT). The movement of the car in this case is highly undesirable.
Shows the transfer of the automatic transmission selector knob to the “P” “parking” mode on vehicles with all-wheel drive, which has a number of reduced speeds. In this case, the machine is blocked when the lever is in position (N)
Some automatic transmission vehicles may have this dash panel icon that illuminates if the transmission is low or low oil pressure, overheating, one of the sensors is not working, or there is another problem. In this case, the system turns on the emergency mode - the car can only move in one gear per minimum speed with minimum engine speed to protect automatic transmission parts from further destruction.
This yellow shift up arrow tells the driver to upshift to save fuel.
Not working or there is a problem with the power steering.
The fluid level in the brake system is below acceptable
Brake pads have unacceptable wear.
The brake force distribution system on the wheels of the car is faulty.
The electric parking brake does not work or does not work properly.
If the car has a tire pressure monitoring system, then when the pressure drops by more than 25% of the nominal value in one or more wheels, you will see these icons on the dashboard.
The " " indicator usually lights up during operation. power unit and signals that one or more engine systems have a malfunction. In some vehicles, the appearance of this icon may be accompanied by the shutdown of some systems until the problem is identified and corrected. It is also possible to limit the fuel supply, to prevent the engine from running at increased speed to reduce the load.
The motor motor has lost power - this indicator is on. To solve the problem, it is possible to stop the motor and start it after about 10 seconds.
A malfunction has been detected in the electronic part of the transmission or a problem in the operation of the power unit. Also, this indicator can signal a malfunction or injection system.
The fuel tank cap is not closed.
An information indicator that serves to draw the driver's attention to an already existing problem or a burning icon on the car's dashboard.
Instructs the driver to look up information in the owner's manual for this vehicle.
These indicators relate to the engine cooling system, and their appearance on the instrument panel may indicate that the coolant level is below the permissible level or its temperature exceeds the permissible value.
Throttle problems
The Blind Spot - BSM (Blind Spot Tracking) system does not work or does not work properly.
A signal to the driver that it is time to undergo a scheduled maintenance with an oil change (OIL CHANGE) and engine filters. However, on some machines, the first light may come on if there are shear problems that need to be corrected. In this case, computer diagnostics is recommended.
Night View - The night vision system is faulty or not working properly. Check if the infrared sensors are not working.
Traction and Active Traction Control, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Traction Control System (TCS)) - indicators indicate the state and functioning of the traction control system. Solid green - the system is on. Yellow - a problem has been detected in the operation of the traction control system. I would like to note that TCS, DTC are directly related to the brake and fuel supply systems, and if a malfunction is detected in them or they do not work, then the traction control system will also give an error on the indicator.
The Electronic Stability Program - ESP (Emergency Brake Assist) and Brake Assist System - BAS (stabilization system) have problems or are malfunctioning.
The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) is not working or is not working properly.
These indicators are present on the instrument panel of the car, which have systems for descending / lifting from a mountain, systems for maintaining a constant speed and systems for starting off assistance. These icons indicate the condition of the vehicle in certain situation while overcoming obstacles.
Disabled and whether the stabilization system (Stability Control) is not working. I would like to note that the deactivation of this system occurs when the “Check Engine” indicator lights up. The stabilization system serves to level the car while sliding or skidding using the brake system, fuel supply system and suspension control.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) indicators indicate the operation of the electronic locking differential and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) traction control.
Brake Assist System (BAS) is not working or is not working properly. In this case, the Electronic Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) system is disabled
Intelligent Brake Assist - IBA - Disabled. This feature of the vehicle is capable of applying the brakes before a collision occurs. If you have activated Intelligent Brake Assist and the light stays on, the laser sensors are most likely dirty or defective.
Indicates to the driver that the car has begun to slip on the road, in which case the stabilization system will be automatically activated.
Does not work (faulty or disabled), while the car can be driven without any problems.
Presence or absence electronic key in the car.
The first icon indicates the presence of an electronic key, the second indicates that the key battery is low and needs to be replaced.
Snow Mode is activated. This mode is present on automatic transmissions to simplify the movement and starting off the car on snow and ice.
Smart car systems, signaling with this indicator, offer the driver to stop and rest. In some cases, on some cars, a pleasant female voice will ask you to pause and have a cup of coffee.
If the car is equipped with a system that allows you to adjust the height of the body position, for a comfortable fit for the driver and passengers, then this indicator lights up when it is activated.
Adaptive Cruise Control - ACC - adaptive cruise control is on. This function will provide the optimal vehicle speed, taking into account the position on the road of other Vehicle and the nature of the area. A flashing icon indicates that the system has problems or is not working.
Rear window heating on
Indicates that Brake Hold (brake system) is activated. To turn it off, press the gas pedal.
Sport Suspension Setting / Comfort Suspension Setting - shock absorber modes. Accordingly, comfortable or sport modes are included.
If your vehicle is equipped with air suspension, this icon is HEIGHT HIGH to indicate the maximum position of the vehicle body above the road.
Problems with undercarriage car or you need diagnostics of suspension units - Check Suspension.
The presence in the car of the Collision Mitigation Brake System - CMBS, which means collision avoidance system, can turn on this indicator, which warns of problems with this system or contamination of the sensors.
Tow Mode – trailer mode is activated.
Park Assist - parking assistance system. A green indicator indicates Park Assist activation, yellow indicates a system problem.
Lane Departure Warning Indicator - LDW, Lane Keeping Assist - LKA, or Lane Departure Prevention - LDP system information indicators that monitor the vehicle's lanes. If the yellow icon blinks (in some cars the warning buzzer may turn on) - the car moves to the side and the lane should be aligned, yellow blinking indicates a malfunction. A green indicator indicates the activation of this system.
The Start / Stop system, the purpose of which is to save fuel, does not work due to a malfunction. When the car is standing still, the engine is turned off, as soon as the driver presses the gas pedal, the engine starts.
Fuel economy mode is activated.
The indicator lights up when ECO MODE is activated, which significantly saves fuel consumption while driving.
An information indicator that tells the driver to upshift to save fuel.
If the car has front and rear wheel drive, this indicator signals the transition of the car's transmission to rear wheel drive.
An icon that indicates to the driver that the car's transmission is in rear-wheel drive mode, but if necessary, all-wheel drive will automatically turn on.
All wheel drive included
All-wheel drive in low gear engaged
It turns on when the differential is locked to increase the vehicle's patency while driving on all-wheel drive.
The interwheel differential of the rear wheels is locked.
Disabling all-wheel drive. The key icon indicates a problem with the all-wheel drive transmission.
Signals about malfunctions in the all-wheel drive system with the engine running. Also, this indicator may indicate a discrepancy between the diameter of the wheels of the rear and front axles.
Perhaps the differential has overheated or there are other problems in the all-wheel drive system.
It may also indicate overheating of the cross-axle differential or oil in it.
4 Wheel Active Steer - the active steering system is faulty. As a rule, it lights up while the engine is running.
The active steering system does not work correctly or is out of order. This error can be caused by problems in the brake system, one of the engine or suspension systems.
On some vehicles, there is a function to start in high gear for driving on slippery road. Activation of this function is accompanied by the appearance of this icon on the dashboard.
Continuously Variable Transmission - the variator is working. When the ignition is turned on, the indicator lights up for a few seconds on the tidy and then goes out.
Variable Gear Ratio Steering gear ratio defective, needs repair.
Indicators of the driving mode switching system "SPORT", "POWER", "COMFORT", "SNOW" (Electronic Throttle Control System - ETCS, Electronically Controlled Transmission - ECT, Elektronische Motorleistungsregelung, Electronic Throttle Control). Change the settings of the suspension, automatic transmission and engine.
Modern cars are supplemented every year various systems and functions that have their own pointers and indicators, which can be difficult to understand at first glance. In addition, on machines from different manufacturers, the same system may be under different graphic symbols.
Here is an extensive list of visual indicators that are used in cars to inform the driver. Green indicators mainly report the activation of a particular system. Red or yellow (or flashing), usually for malfunction or warning purposes.
Warning indicators
Handbrake engaged, low brake fluid level, or possibly other problems in the brake system.
Increased (red) or decreased ( Blue colour) engine cooling system temperature. Flashing pointer - malfunctions in the electrics of the cooling system.
The pressure drop in the lubrication system (Oil Pressure) of the engine is below the permissible value. May also indicate a drop in oil level.
Engine oil level sensor (Engine Oil Sensor). The oil level is below the allowable value and needs to be topped up.
Voltage drop in onboard network vehicle, lack of battery charge or other malfunctions in the power supply system (with the inscription MAIN - for a hybrid).
Indicators reporting faults and related to safety systems
A warning signal to draw the attention of the driver in the event of an abnormal situation (oil pressure drop, open door, etc.), usually accompanied by explanatory text information on the instrument panel display or other indicator.
Malfunction in the electronic stabilization system.
Malfunctions of one or more airbags of the passive safety system (Supplemental Restraint System - SRS).
Front passenger airbag off indicator (Side Airbag Off).
Passenger Air Bag indicator, which turns off automatically. If there is an adult on the seat and the indicator shows "AIRBAG OFF", then there is a malfunction in the system.
The system of side (curtain) airbags (Roll Sensing Curtain Airbags - RSCA), triggered when the vehicle rolls over, is disabled. Often found on vehicles prone to rollover (high center of gravity). One of the reasons for turning it off is off-road driving, where large body rolls occur that can trigger the system's sensors.
Pre Collision or Crash System (PCS) malfunction.
Indicator of activation of the anti-theft system or immobilizer.
Indicates a malfunction of the anti-theft system or some kind of malfunction in its operation.
Malfunctions or overheating of the automatic transmission or other transmission components.
A description of the malfunction must be sought in the vehicle's instruction manual.
It is found mainly on supercars and reports a malfunction in one of the transmission units or its overheating. There is a danger for the car to become uncontrollable.
Exceeded allowable temperature in an automatic transmission (Automatic Transmission - A / T). Further movement It is highly discouraged before the automatic transmission has cooled down.
Electrical faults in automatic transmission(Automatic Transmission - AT). Continued driving is not recommended.
The automatic transmission lock mode indicator (A / T Park - P) in the "P" ("park") position can be located on vehicles with all-wheel drive and a lowering row in the transfer case. The automatic transmission is locked when the four-wheel drive mode switch is in the neutral (N) position.
Malfunction in the hydraulic or electric power steering.
The parking brake is activated.
Low brake fluid level.
Fault in anti-lock system brakes (Antilock Braking System - ABS) or the system is disabled (if there is such a possibility and it is enabled).
The brake pads are worn to the limit.
Malfunction in the brake force distribution system.
Malfunction in the electric parking brake system.
When the ignition is on, it signals the need to apply the brake to unlock the automatic transmission gear selector.
The air pressure drop in one or more tires is more than 25% of the nominal value.
When the engine is running, it signals the need to diagnose the engine and its systems or the presence of malfunctions in their operation. It may be accompanied by the shutdown of some vehicle systems until the malfunction is corrected. The EPC (Electronic Power Control - electronic power control) system, when a malfunction is detected in the engine, can forcibly reduce the fuel supply.
Indicators of the Start-Stop system (ENG Auto Stop (A-STOP)). Green - engine off. Yellow - a malfunction in the system.
Loss of engine power for any reason. Stopping the engine and restarting it after at least 10 seconds sometimes solves the problem.
Malfunctions in the engine or transmission electronics. It may also indicate a malfunction of the immobilizer or injection system.
Faulty or dirty oxygen sensor (lambda probe). It is not recommended to continue driving, because this sensor directly affects the operation of the injection system.
Faulty or overheated catalytic converter. May be accompanied by a drop in engine power.
Check the fuel tank cap.
Indicates to the driver that a new message has appeared on the instrument panel display or another indicator has come on. May remind you of the need to perform some service functions or report other problems.
Informs that the driver needs to refer to the vehicle's instruction manual in order to decipher the message from the dashboard display.
The coolant level in the engine cooling system is low.
Electronic malfunction throttle valve(ETC).
The tracking system (Blind Spot - BSM) is faulty or disabled for areas invisible to the driver around the car.
Reminder of the need for scheduled maintenance (Maintenance Required) of the car, oil change (OIL CHANGE), etc. The first indicator in some vehicles may indicate more serious problems.
Dirty and needs to be replaced air filter engine intake systems.
Malfunction in the night vision system (Night View) / burned out infrared sensors.
Overdrive overdrive (O/D) in automatic transmission disengaged.
Stabilization and assistance systems in critical situations
Anti-slip control indicators (Traction and Active Traction Control, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Traction Control System (TCS)): green indicates that the system is currently performing some action; yellow - the system is disabled or some kind of failure has been detected in its operation. Since it is connected to the fuel and brake systems, malfunctions in these systems can cause it to turn off.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Brake Assist System (BAS) are interconnected. This indicator reports problems in one of them.
Malfunction in the system of kinetic stabilization of the suspension (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System - KDSS).
Indicators for hill climb/descent, constant speed control, start assist, etc.
The stability control system is deactivated. It also automatically turns off when the "Check Engine" indicator is on. Depending on the manufacturer, the stabilization system may be called differently: AdvanceTrac, Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Interactive Vehicle Dynamics (IVD), Precision Control System (PCS), StabiliTrak, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Vehicle Dynamics Control Systems (VDCS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), etc. Having detected the slip of the wheels, with the help of brake systems, fuel supply and suspension control, it aligns the position of the car on the road.
Indicator of the stabilization system Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Electronic Stability Program (ESP). On machines of some manufacturers, it denotes the Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) traction control system and the Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) differential.
Four-wheel drive is engaged or the system needs to be diagnosed.
Malfunction in the emergency braking assistance system Brake Assist System (BAS). It entails disabling the Electronic Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) system.
The Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system, which is capable of independently applying the braking system to prevent a collision when an obstacle is detected dangerously close to the car, has been disabled. If the system is not disabled, and the indicator is on, the laser sensors of the system may be malfunctioning or contaminated.
An indicator that a vehicle slip has been detected and the stabilization system has come into operation.
The stabilization system is faulty or not functioning. The vehicle continues to drive normally, but without electronic assistance.
Indicators of special and additional systems
Absence/presence of an electronic key in the car.
The first icon is the absence of an electronic key in the car. The second - the key is found, but its battery needs to be replaced.
The "Snow" mode (Snow Mode) is included, which supports higher gears when driving and starting off. May be able to control fuel delivery.
Prompts the driver to stop and take a break from driving. May be accompanied by an audible signal or a text message on the display.
Informs about a dangerous reduction in the distance to the vehicle in front or the appearance of an obstacle on the way. May be part of the Cruise Control system.
Indicator of easy access to the car with a system for regulating the height of the body position above the road.
Cruise control or adaptive cruise control (Adaptive Cruise Control - ACC) is activated, capable of maintaining the necessary speed to maintain distance from the vehicle in front. A flashing light may indicate a problem with the system.
The brake system is activated (Brake Hold). Release occurs when the gas pedal is pressed.
Sports and comfort mode shock absorbers (Sport Suspension Setting / Comfort Suspension Setting).
On vehicles with air suspension, a similar indicator indicates the height of the body above the road. In this case, the highest position (HEIGHT HIGH).
Check Suspension - CK SUSP. Indicates possible malfunctions in the chassis and the need to check it.
The collision avoidance system (Collision Mitigation Brake System - CMBS) is turned off or faulty (radar sensors may be dirty), which monitors the space in front of the car with the help of a radar and is able to apply emergency braking if necessary without the participation of the driver.
Trailer mode enabled (Tow Mode).
Parking assistance system (Park Assist). Green - the system is activated. Yellow - malfunction or system sensors are dirty.
Lane Departure Warning Indicator - LDW, Lane Departure Prevention - LDP, or Lane Keeping Assist - LKA. A yellow flashing signal warns that the vehicle is moving from its lane to the right or left. May be accompanied by an audible signal. Solid yellow may indicate a malfunction. Green - the system is activated.
Stop Start System Function Indicators.
A malfunction in the "Start / Stop" system, capable of turning off the engine in order to save fuel, for example, when stopping at a red light, and starting it again when pressing the "gas".
The driver is driving in fuel economy mode.
ECO MODE is activated.
Tells you when it is better to shift to a higher gear in order to save fuel on cars with a manual transmission.
The transmission is in rear-wheel drive mode.
The transmission is in rear-wheel drive mode, but if necessary, the electronics automatically turn on all-wheel drive mode.
All-wheel drive mode is engaged.
The all-wheel drive mode with a step-down row in the transfer case is activated.
The central (center) differential is blocked and the "hard" all-wheel drive mode is used.
Rear axle differential locked.
The first indicator - four-wheel drive is disabled. The second - a malfunction was detected in it.
When the engine is running, it may report a malfunction in the all-wheel drive system (4 Wheel Drive - 4WD, All Wheel Drive - AWD) or a mismatch in the diameters of the wheels of the front and rear axles.
Malfunctions in the all-wheel drive system (Super Handling - SH, All Wheel Drive - AWD). The differential may be overheating.
Exceeded oil temperature in the rear differential (Rear Differential Temperature). It is recommended to stop and wait for the differential to cool down.
When the engine is running, reports a malfunction in the active steering system (4 Wheel Active Steer - 4WAS).
Malfunction in the system of active steering of the rear wheels (Rear Active Steer - RAS) or the system is disabled. Malfunctions in engine, brake or suspension systems can cause automatic shutdown RAS.
