Traffic Alerts
These are Cross Traffic or Rear Cross Traffic Alert Dashboard Indicator symbols. The cross traffic alert system is designed to alert a driver of vehicles approaching from either or both sides behind the vehicle when it is running and is shifted into reverse.
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The first two appear as drawings of two vehicles seen from above with lines radiating to the rear at the second vehicle with or without an exclamation point. The third is seen as a car from above with an arrow pointing down and lines radiating from each rear corner. All are in yellow/amber. Depending on manufacturer, the image may change to red when a vehicle is detected.
The systems generally work with approaching traffic at speeds below about 35 mph or 60 km/h. Coverage is dependent on obstructions from parked vehicles or other obstacles. Reversing slowly is said to help increase the coverage area and effectiveness, and is always a good idea anyway.
Similar Symbols
Do not confuse the first symbol with one of these (right). They are Blind Spot Monitor Indicators and you can learn more about them here. Note that the second vehicle is shown facing the same direction.
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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.
These posts are 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.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow.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 25 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 College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY