Engine Temperature Warning Dashboard Indicators

Overheat

One of the original idiot lights, at least in red, this is the Temperature Warning lights or symbols. The text symbol Hot Coolant Temp (temperature) spells it out plainly. In red, it indicates quite simply that the engine temperature is too high. If you see this light, your vehicle should be stopped and the engine turned off as quickly as possible. Turning on the heater to the highest setting will remove some of the heat as well.

  • But first, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, then read on below!
  • Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Note: The Ford Lightning Electric Vehicle now uses the same first symbol as a Powertrain Temperature Warning Indicator. The rules remain the same  stop and allow things to cool down. If the problem persists, contact your dealer or authorized service center as soon as possible.

In blue, the symbol, which resembles a thermometer placed in water, indicates that the coolant temperature is below what is needed for optimum performance. If the light blinks red then blue, an electrical malfunction in the cooling system is indicated.

Again, contact your dealer or authorized repair center soon.

Finally, shown in yellow/amber, the symbol of the thermometer alone speaks to fuel having entered the engine oil. Run the engine until warm to allow the fuel to evaporate. Also, avoid running at a high rpm as well.

Note that this unlit symbol may appear inside the temperature gauge and have no function other than to describe the gauge it is sitting in.

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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.

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