Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

By Kevin Quinn and the Mercury Team

Modern cars come with all kinds of dashboard lights. Some are easy to recognize, while others can be a bit confusing. And let’s face it, it’s not always clear which ones need urgent attention.

That’s why we’ve created this handy guide to help you understand what those lights actually mean, what you should do when they show up, and how staying on top of them can help you avoid bigger problems down the road.

Why Understanding Dashboard Symbols Matters

Think of your car’s dashboard symbols as its way of sending you a quick heads-up. Whether it’s low tire pressure or a brake system alert, catching these early can save you from expensive breakdowns and accidents. Ignoring them? That can lead to filing an insurance claim and higher premiums.

“Taking care of those issues early keeps you safer on the road and can help you avoid costly repairs and insurance claims. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect both your car and your wallet,” says Kevin Quinn, VP of Claims

Common Car Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

What do the symbols on your car dashboard mean? Let’s break them down one by one and provide some automotive maintenance tips for you to consider.

1. Oil Pressure Warning Light

Wondering why your car’s oil pressure warning light is on? This dashboard symbol usually means your engine’s oil pressure is too low or there’s an issue with the oil pump, both of which can lead to serious engine damage if left unchecked.

What to do: First, you should know how to check the oil in your car. To do this, locate the dipstick under the hood, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to check the oil level. If the oil is low, top it off. If the warning light stays on, it’s best to visit a mechanic immediately.

Insurance tip: Ignoring oil-related issues can lead to breakdowns or costly repairs, potentially triggering an insurance claim. Keeping up with maintenance helps protect your engine and may help keep your car insurance premiums low.

2. Tire Pressure Warning Light (TPMS): What It Means and What to Do

The tire pressure warning light (TPMS) comes on when one or more of your tires is underinflated or overinflated. It might not seem like a big deal at first, but driving with incorrect tire pressure can affect your car’s handling, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.

What to do: As soon as that light pops up, check your tire pressure using a gauge or at a nearby service station. Inflate your tires to the recommended PSI (usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door). While you’re at it, take a minute to inspect for visible damage or slow leaks.

Insurance tip: Proper tire pressure helps prevent blowouts and accidents, which can reduce your risk of filing a claim. And while you’re thinking about tire health, it’s a good reminder to ask: How often should you check your tire tread? Experts recommend doing so at least once a month for safe, smooth driving.

3. Engine Temperature Warning Light

If you’re wondering what the engine temperature warning light means, it’s your car telling you the engine is running too hot. This can happen for a few reasons, like low coolant, a faulty thermostat, or issues with the radiator.

What to do: Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and give it time to cool down. Once it’s safe, check your coolant levels (just be sure the engine is completely cool before opening the radiator cap). If the coolant is low, top it off. If the problem continues, it’s time to call a mechanic.

Insurance tip: Ignoring an overheating engine can lead to major damage, breakdowns, and even towing claims. Acting fast helps you avoid costly repairs and keeps your coverage record clean.

4. Brake Warning Light

The brake warning light may indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or another issue in your braking system. In some cars, you might also see a triangle symbol, which leads many drivers to ask: What is the brake and triangle warning light? It’s usually a general brake system alert that needs your attention right away.

What to do: Start by checking your brake fluid level. If it’s low, top it off with the recommended type. If the light stays on or you notice unusual braking (like squeaking or a soft pedal), get your brakes checked by a professional as soon as possible.

Insurance tip: Faulty brakes are a major safety risk and can easily lead to accidents, making you liable and potentially increasing your insurance rates. A quick fix now can save you a lot later.

5. Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light

The ABS warning light comes on when there’s a problem with your car’s anti-lock braking system. What is the anti-lock brake system? It’s a safety feature that helps prevent your wheels from locking up during hard braking, especially on wet or slippery roads. It helps you stay in control, even when stopping suddenly.

What to do: If the ABS light comes on, your regular brakes should still work, but the anti-lock feature might not. Carefully test your brakes in a safe, low-traffic area. If everything feels okay, schedule a service appointment soon to get it checked out.

Insurance tip: A malfunctioning ABS can increase your chances of skidding or losing control, especially in poor weather. Getting it repaired promptly helps lower your accident risk and could help keep your car insurance rates steady.

6. Check Engine Light

One of the most common—and most misunderstood—dashboard alerts is the check engine light. If you’ve ever asked, “Why is my check engine light on?” it could be anything from a loose gas cap to a more serious issue in your engine or emissions system.

What to do: Start simple and check that your gas cap is tightly secured. If the light stays on, it’s a good idea to schedule diagnostics with a trusted mechanic. Even if the car seems to be running fine, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Insurance tip: Ignoring this light can lead to bigger problems down the line, including breakdowns or accidents. Addressing engine issues early can help avoid major repairs and lower your risk of filing a claim that might impact your car insurance rate.

7. Battery Alert Light

If your battery alert light pops on, it means there’s an issue with your car’s battery or charging system, often involving the alternator. It doesn’t always mean your battery is dead, but it’s definitely a sign that something’s off.

What to do: Pop the hood and check the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. If everything looks okay but the light stays on, have the battery tested and possibly replaced. A trusted mechanic can also check if the alternator is charging properly.

Insurance tip: A dead battery might seem like a minor hassle, but it can leave you stranded in risky spots—like on the highway or at night—which could lead to an accident or roadside assistance claim. Staying on top of car battery maintenance is a simple way to avoid breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

8. Low Fuel Indicator Light

When the low fuel indicator light comes on, it means your fuel level is getting dangerously low. While you might be tempted to squeeze out a few more miles, it’s not worth the risk.

What to do: Refuel as soon as you can. Most cars give you a small buffer once the light turns on, but relying on that too often can damage your fuel system over time—not to mention leave you stranded.

Insurance tip: Running out of gas, especially on a busy road or highway, can be dangerous. It increases the risk of accidents and may result in a roadside assistance claim. Keeping your tank topped up is a simple way to stay safe, avoid hassle, and keep your car insurance record clean.

9. Seat Belt Reminder Light

The seat belt reminder light means someone in the car isn’t buckled up. It’s a gentle nudge to click that seat belt before hitting the road.

What to do: Buckle up! If the light stays on even after fastening your belt, double-check that it’s securely latched and that nothing is blocking the buckle. For passengers, make sure everyone is properly strapped in.

Insurance tip: Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest ways to stay safe in a crash, and it can also impact how a claim is handled. In some cases, not wearing a seat belt could affect compensation after an accident. So when that light comes on, take it seriously.

10. Airbag Warning Light

Ever wondered, “Why is my airbag warning light on?”This light means there could be an issue with your vehicle’s airbag system—anything from a faulty sensor to a wiring problem. If the system isn’t working properly, your airbags might not deploy in a crash.

What to do: Don’t ignore it. Have a professional inspect the system as soon as possible. Sometimes, it’s a quick fix, but even minor issues can compromise your safety in an accident.

Insurance tip: If your airbags fail to deploy, injuries can be much worse, leading to higher medical bills and more complicated insurance claims. Keeping your airbag system in working order helps keep you safer and protect your car insurance standing.

11. Washer Fluid Indicator Light

When the washer fluid indicator light comes on, it’s letting you know your windshield washer fluid is running low.

What to do: You need to know how to refill the washer fluid. But don’t worry, it’s easy. Just pop the hood and locate the washer fluid reservoir (it usually has a windshield symbol on the cap). Open it up and pour in fluid until it reaches the fill line.

Insurance tip: Driving with a dirty or streaky windshield can limit your visibility and increase the risk of an accident. Keep your washer fluid topped off so you avoid bigger issues and potential car insurance claims.

12. Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator Light

The automatic shift lock or engine start indicator light usually comes on when your car wants you to press the brake pedal before shifting gears or starting the engine. It’s a built-in safety feature that prevents the car from moving unexpectedly.

What to do: Simply press the brake pedal while starting the engine or shifting out of park. If the light stays on or the gear shift won’t budge, check your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Some cars have backup release methods.

Insurance tip: Forcing the gear shift without following the proper steps can cause mechanical damage or lead to unsafe driving conditions. That kind of mistake could result in costly repairs—or even contribute to an accident. Taking a moment to do it right helps protect your car and avoid unnecessary car insurance claims.

13. Security Indicator Light

The security indicator light lets you know that your car’s anti-theft system is active, or that it’s picked up on something unusual, like an attempted break-in or a key it doesn’t recognize.

What to do: Most of the time, locking and unlocking the doors with your key fob will reset the system. If the light stays on or your car won’t start, check your owner’s manual or contact your dealer for help.

Insurance tip: A functioning security system can help prevent theft and may even reduce your risk of filing a comprehensive car insurance claim. Using it properly helps protect your vehicle and could help keep your insurance premiums in check.

14. Fog Lamp Indicator Light

The fog lamp indicator light lets you know that your front or rear fog lights are on. These lights are super helpful in low-visibility conditions like heavy fog, rain, or snow.

What to do: If you see this light and the weather’s clear, go ahead and switch off your fog lamps. They’re very bright and can glare into the eyes of other drivers, especially at night.

Insurance tip: Fog lamps can improve your visibility in tough conditions, helping you avoid accidents and—as a result— potential car insurance claims. Just remember to turn them off when you no longer need them.

Lesser-Known/Advanced Symbols

Let’s take a look at a few you might not recognize right away.

1. Traction Control Alert or Malfunction Light

The traction control alert or malfunction light comes on when your car detects reduced traction, like when you’re driving on snow, ice, or wet roads. It can also mean the traction control system is turned off or isn’t working properly.

What to do: If the system is off, simply turn it back on, especially in slippery conditions. If the light stays on and you didn’t disable it yourself, have a mechanic check it to make sure everything’s functioning as it should.

Insurance tip: Traction control helps prevent your wheels from slipping, so when it’s not working, your risk of skidding or losing control increases. That could lead to an accident and a possible car insurance claim. Keep this system active and in good shape to help you drive safer and protect your premium.

2. Lane Departure Warning Light

Ever wonder what a lane departure warning is? It’s a smart safety feature that alerts you when your vehicle starts to drift out of its lane without a turn signal. When the lane departure warning light comes on, it means the system has detected unintentional lane movement.

What to do: Gently steer your car back into the lane. If the light keeps popping on even when you’re driving normally, the system may need to be recalibrated by a professional.

Insurance tip: Lane-drift accidents are common and can lead to liability claims if you’re found at fault. Keep your lane departure system working properly to help you avoid those risks.

3. Transmission Temperature Warning Light

If your transmission temperature warning light comes on, it means your transmission is getting too hot. This can happen when you’re towing, driving in stop-and-go traffic, or going up steep hills—anything that puts extra strain on your vehicle.

What to do: Pull over safely and let your car cool down. Once it’s safe, check your transmission fluid levels if you know how (or have a professional do it). Driving with an overheated transmission can lead to serious damage.

Insurance tip: If your transmission fails suddenly, you might end up needing a tow or emergency repairs, which could lead to a car insurance claim. Keep an eye on this warning light, and take quick action to help you avoid that kind of stress and expense.

4. Forward Collision Warning Light (If Applicable)

If you’ve ever asked, “Why is my forward collision warning light on?” it means your car has detected that you’re getting a little too close to the vehicle in front of you. This system is designed to alert you before a potential collision, giving you time to slow down or react.

What to do: Ease off the gas, increase your following distance, and stay alert. If the light stays on when there’s no car ahead or it goes off too often, the system might need to be cleaned or recalibrated, especially if there’s dirt or debris on the sensors.

Insurance tip: Forward collision warning systems are a great way to avoid rear-end accidents, which are some of the most common types of claims. Using this feature properly can help you avoid crashes and keep your car insurance record clean.

5. Adaptive Cruise Control Indicator

The adaptive cruise control indicator lights up when your vehicle’s cruise control system is actively maintaining a set speed and automatically adjusting to the flow of traffic. It uses sensors to slow down or speed up based on the distance between you and the car ahead.

What to do: While the system handles a lot on its own, you still need to stay alert. Keep your hands on the wheel and be ready to brake or steer if traffic suddenly changes. It’s an assist, not a substitute for attentive driving.

Insurance tip: Features like adaptive cruise control are part of what’s known as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). They can reduce your risk of rear-end collisions, which means fewer claims. That could help keep your car insurance rates more affordable over time.

Steps to Take When a Warning Light Appears

When a warning light appears, here are the steps you should take:

• Know what’s urgent vs. what can wait: Lights, like oil pressure or engine temperature, require immediate action. Others, like washer fluid, aren’t emergencies but should still be addressed soon.
• Check your vehicle manual: It’s your best resource for understanding what each symbol means and what steps to take.
• Get a professional opinion: If you’re unsure, have a certified mechanic run a diagnostic to pinpoint the issue.
• Consider the insurance impact: Ignoring warning lights can lead to breakdowns or accidents, which can raise the risk of claims and possibly increase your premiums.

Conclusion

Whether it’s low tire pressure or a more serious issue like engine trouble, addressing warning lights early can help you avoid costly repairs, stay safe on the road, and even keep your insurance rates from going up.

Looking for cheap car insurance that rewards responsible drivers? Mercury offers competitive rates and exclusive discounts to help you save on your auto policy.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!