Your Complete Guide to Car Dashboard Warning Lights & What They Mean

Cars are packed with technology designed to keep you safe. One key part is the dashboard—a space filled with warning lights and symbols. These lights alert you when something isn’t right. Some are reminders, while others signal serious issues. It’s important to know what each one means so you can act quickly and avoid bigger problems. Let’s look at the most common car dashboard warning lights found in petrol, diesel, and electric vehicles (EVs).

Fog Lights

This symbol looks like a headlight with a wavy line in front of it. It shows the front or rear fog lights are on. Fog lights help you see better in thick fog, rain, or snow. Not all cars have them. If the symbol flashes or doesn’t turn off, there could be an electrical issue.

Low Tyre Pressure

A yellow symbol showing an exclamation mark inside a flat tyre means one or more tyres have low pressure. Low pressure can affect grip, fuel use, and tyre wear. Stop at a safe spot, check the tyres, and inflate them as needed. Most systems reset automatically once pressure is normal.

Engine Oil Warning

A symbol like a dripping oil can signals low oil pressure. This can cause serious engine damage if ignored. Stop the car immediately, turn off the engine, and check the oil level once the engine is cool. If the level is fine, the oil pump or sensor could be faulty. Seek help quickly.

Check Engine Light

This is often a symbol of an engine or simply says “Check Engine.” It covers many engine issues, from minor faults like a loose fuel cap to major problems like misfiring or emissions faults. The car may still run, but it’s best to get a diagnosis from a professional as soon as possible.

Traction or Stability Control Light

This symbol shows a car with wavy lines behind it. It means the traction or stability control system is off or not working. These systems help prevent skidding or sliding. If you didn’t turn it off yourself, there could be a fault. It’s safer to drive with this system on, so get it checked.

Coolant Temperature Warning

A thermometer symbol usually means the engine is overheating. Pull over safely and let the engine cool down. Don’t open the coolant cap while hot. Check the coolant level and refill if needed. If the problem continues, there could be a leak or a faulty thermostat.

Brake System Warning Light

This red light (exclamation mark inside a circle) signals a brake problem. It could be low brake fluid, worn pads, or a serious brake system fault. Driving without working brakes is extremely dangerous. Stop the car and call for roadside help or a tow.

ABS Warning Light

This light means there’s a fault in the anti-lock braking system (ABS). While your main brakes will still work, ABS helps stop the car safely without skidding. It’s especially useful in rain or on icy roads. Have the system checked by a technician as soon as possible.

Airbag Warning Light

A symbol showing a person with a circle (airbag) means there’s a fault with the airbag system. This could be an issue with sensors, wiring, or airbags. In a crash, the airbags might not work. This should be fixed quickly to stay safe.

Battery Warning Light

A red battery symbol means your car is running on battery power only. The alternator may not be charging it. If this happens while driving, you might soon lose power. Get to a garage before the battery dies. You may need a jump-start if the engine is off and the light shows.

Low Fuel Light

This light means the fuel tank is nearly empty. It usually comes on when there’s less than 10–15% fuel left. Some cars are estimated based on driving habits. Fill up soon to avoid being stranded.

Diesel Glow Plug Light

In diesel cars, this curly symbol shows the glow plugs are warming the engine for a cold start. Wait for the light to go out before starting. If it flashes or stays on, there may be a fault with the glow plugs or the heating system. Have it checked if the problem continues.

Door Ajar Warning Light

This symbol, often a car with open doors, means one or more doors are not properly shut. Stop and check all doors, including the boot. Driving with an open door is unsafe, especially at higher speeds.

Seatbelt Reminder Light

A seated figure with a belt across the chest means someone hasn’t fastened their seatbelt. Most cars also beep as a reminder. Buckle up to switch off the alert. This light can also show issues with seatbelt sensors.

Washer Fluid Warning Light

A windscreen with water spray indicates the washer fluid is low. It won’t stop the car from running, but driving with a dirty windscreen is dangerous. Top up the washer fluid when safe.

Power Steering Warning Light

This shows a steering wheel and often an exclamation mark. It means a problem with the power steering system. You may notice stiff or heavy steering. In electric systems, it could be a software issue or a failed motor.

DPF Warning Light (Diesel Particulate Filter)

This symbol, often a box with dots inside, means the DPF is clogged. It collects soot from the exhaust in diesel cars. A long motorway drive at steady speed can often clear it. If not, it needs professional cleaning.

Automatic Transmission Warning Light

This might look like a gear or the letters “AT.” It signals a problem with the automatic gearbox. If the car struggles to shift gears or drives strangely, stop and get it checked. Ignoring it can lead to expensive repairs.

EV (Electric Vehicle) Warning Lights

EVs have some unique car dashboard warning lights related to their battery and motor systems.

EV System Warning Light

This symbol, often a car with an exclamation mark or a battery outline, means there’s a fault in the electric drive system. It could be a software glitch or a motor issue. Stop the car safely and contact your dealer or technician.

Battery Temperature Warning

A battery symbol with a thermometer shows the battery is too hot or too cold. Extreme temperatures can reduce performance or damage the battery. Avoid driving hard and park the car in a suitable place. If the light stays on, seek help.

Charging System Warning

This light may show a plug or cable icon. It means something went wrong during charging—maybe a loose cable or issue with the charging port. Check connections and try a different charger. If it continues, have the system checked.

Low EV Battery Warning

Just like the low fuel light in petrol cars, this light means your EV battery is nearly empty. Find a charging station soon to avoid running out of power.

Electric Motor Warning Light

This symbol may look like a small motor or a bolt. It means there’s a fault with the electric motor or related systems. The car might lose power or behave differently. Visit an EV service centre for diagnosis.

Shared Car Dashboard Warning Lights (ICE & EV Cars)

Some alerts appear in all modern cars, regardless of engine type:

• Brake Warning – Indicates general brake system issue. Critical for safety.
• Tyre Pressure Warning (TPMS) – Low pressure in one or more tyres.
• Seatbelt Reminder – Seatbelt not fastened.
• Airbag Warning – Airbag system not working properly.
• Door Ajar Warning – Door not properly shut.
• Headlight & Fog Light Indicators – Lights are on or malfunctioning.
• Lane Departure Warning – You are moving out of lane without indication.
• Parking Brake Light – Handbrake is active.
• Power Steering Warning – Fault in the power steering system.

What You Should Do When a Dashboard Light Appears

1. Don’t Panic – Most alerts are not emergencies.
2. Check the Symbol – Refer to the car manual or infotainment screen.
3. Stop if Needed – For critical warnings like overheating, pull over safely.
4. Call for Help – Contact your roadside assistance or mechanic.
5. Get Regular Service – Prevent many warnings by maintaining your car.

Dashboard signs are there to help you, not scare you. Learning their meanings keeps you safe and protects your car. In the UAE’s tough climate, acting on warnings quickly is even more important. Whether you drive petrol, diesel, or electric, always pay attention to what your dashboard tells you.

FAQs

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