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Warning light symbols and indicators can be found on the dashboard of most vehicles. Have you ever looked at your car's dashboard and wondered why that light was on and its meaning? While it's always advisable to read your vehicle's owners manual, in this gallery you can get an idea of what the most important symbols mean and what you should do about them.
Click through to learn what the warning lights on your car's dashboard mean.
This light can appear for different reasons, from less serious problems, like an open gas cap, to other more serious engine problems that should be diagnosed by a professional as soon as possible.
If the light flashes you should pull over immediately, as this usually means there is a serious problem with your engine. If you continue to drive, you can cause real damage to your vehicle.
This symbol essentially means that the engine is overheated.
There might just be an issue with your coolant (AKA antifreeze), but it's always a good idea to check the level in your radiator once you have stopped and the engine has cooled down.
If this light pops up, it usually means that your engine is running low on oil. But there could also be a problem with your car's oil pressure system. You should look at it as soon as possible, as you car's engine will get damaged without proper lubrication.
This symbol indicates that there is a problem with your car's charging system. And this doesn't necessarily mean your battery is running low.
Other problems may include a damaged battery cable, or even a broken alternator belt, among others.
Diesel cars will have this light. It means that the glow plugs are warming up, so you'll have to wait until the light goes out before you start your car.
If it flashes, it might mean other problems, such as a worn out glow plug.
This symbol means that there is an issue with one or more of the airbags in your vehicle.
You should address this issue as soon as possible, as airbags are extremely important for your safety.
This light means that a vehicle in front is too close or that you're approaching it too quickly.
This light indicates that there is a problem with the air suspension bags. This can be a leak, for instance.
This light usually indicates that there is a problem with your car's security system, such as the anti-theft system.
If this warning light pops up while you're driving, it usually means that there is something wrong with the anti-lock braking system.
This means that the handbrake is on. However, if it flashes, it may mean that hydraulic pressure has been lost or indicate a low fluid level in the master cylinder.
This symbol means that the pressure in one or more of your tires is either too low or too high.
This light (pictured further left) means that your car's traction control system is on.
This light indicates that there is a problem with the car's power steering system.
This one indicates that your vehicle is low in washer fluid. Operating your windshield wipers without it is useless.
This symbol usually lights up when you try to shift gears or start your car without engaging the brake pedal.
How many times have you turned on the fog lamps by mistake? If this symbol lights up, they're on.
This symbol indicates that the key is not in the car.
This light means that the hood is not properly shut.
Everyone in your car must wear a seat belt. If the light goes on, it usually means one or more of the seat belts are not engaged.
Most drivers know what this one means, so you should drive to the closest gas station and fill up.
What the warning lights on your car's dashboard mean
Do you know these warning signs?
LIFESTYLE Cars
Warning light symbols and indicators can be found on the dashboard of most vehicles. Have you ever looked at your car's dashboard and wondered why that light was on and its meaning? While it's always advisable to read your vehicle's owners manual, in this gallery you can get an idea of what the most important symbols mean and what you should do about them.
Click through to learn what the warning lights on your car's dashboard mean.