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Tesla Symbols
So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.
The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by Tesla. Lacking an internal combustion engine, their models use fewer warning lights then most. Nevertheless, those that are used are here. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.
How They Are Presented
They are ordered primarily by color and roughly by importance. First up are red warning lights and indicators, followed by red with yellow/amber/orange (depending on how you see the color!) alternatives, strictly yellow/amber/orange symbols, then blue and green symbols and finally white and gray scale symbols. There are only about 40 of them, but search carefully anyway!
Special notes on the Model 3, Y and Cybertruck
These models lack an actual instrument panel and thus also lack a traditional set of warning lights. If a problem is detected, a popup message will appear at the bottom of the touchscreen. The Master warning light, in red or yellow/amber/orange will be to the far left (right). Red will point to a more serious concern.
As an example, a seat belt reminder appears if a seat belt is unfastened in an occupied seat, or to notify you of an incoming phone call, or a text message appears (when applicable), and voice commands appear when in use.
If applicable, touch options from these popup messages (for example, accept/decline a phone call, choose an option from the headlight menu, etc.).
If an alert appears on your vehicle’s touchscreen, touch “Learn More” to the right of the alert for more details regarding it and how it can be resolved. You can view a list of vehicle alerts and notifications by touching the bell icon at the top of Controls.
To dismiss a popup message, swipe it downward.
Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!
Models examined include the Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck. Model years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 ,2024, and 2025.
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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY