Understanding Dashboard Warning Lights

Your car’s dashboard is more than just a speedometer and fuel gauge. It’s a communication system that alerts you when something needs your attention. But with so many warning lights flashing in different colors and shapes, it’s easy to get confused.

Here’s a clear and simple guide to understanding common dashboard warning lights every car owner in India should know.

🔴 Red = Stop Immediately (Critical Warning)

Red lights often indicate serious issues that require immediate action.

1. Engine Temperature Warning

Symbol: Thermometer floating in water
What it means: Your engine is overheating.
What to do: Stop the vehicle immediately, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Check coolant level if safe to do so.

2. Brake System Warning

Symbol: Circle with an exclamation mark or the word “BRAKE”
What it means: Low brake fluid or brake system issue.
What to do: Check brake fluid level. If the light stays on, avoid driving and call a mechanic.

3. Battery Warning Light

Symbol: A battery icon
What it means: Your battery is not charging properly.
What to do: Get your alternator and battery checked as soon as possible.

🟠 Amber/Yellow = Caution (Needs Attention Soon)

These lights indicate non-critical issues but shouldn’t be ignored.

4. Check Engine Light

Symbol: Engine outline
What it means: A variety of engine or emission issues.
What to do: Drive carefully and visit a service center. Could be something as minor as a loose fuel cap or as serious as a faulty sensor.

5. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Symbol: Exclamation inside a horseshoe
What it means: One or more tyres may be underinflated.
What to do: Check and inflate tyres to the recommended PSI.

6. ABS Warning Light

Symbol: Circle with “ABS”
What it means: Issue with the Anti-lock Braking System.
What to do: Brakes will still work, but without ABS protection. Have it inspected.

🔵 Blue/Green = Info Lights (Function Status)

7. High Beam Indicator

Symbol: Light beam icon
What it means: Your high beams are on.
What to do: Use only in low-traffic, dark conditions to avoid blinding others.

8. Turn Signal Indicator

Symbol: Flashing arrow (left or right)
What it means: Your turn signal is active.
What to do: Ensure it turns off after turning, or turn it off manually.

⚠️ Other Important Warning Lights

9. Oil Pressure Warning

Symbol: Oil can dripping
What it means: Low oil pressure – serious engine damage risk.
What to do: Stop immediately and check oil level. Don’t drive if the light remains on.

10. Airbag Warning

Symbol: Person with airbag
What it means: Airbag system may not deploy in a crash.
What to do: Visit a mechanic urgently to diagnose the issue.

✅ Final Tips to Stay Safe

  • Don’t ignore warning lights, especially red ones.

  • Keep your car manual handy—it has a full list of dashboard symbols.

  • Regularly service your car to prevent most warning lights from appearing.

  • Install a car diagnostic scanner (OBD-II) if you want to self-check fault codes at home.