Lamp Out
These are Lamp Out Indicator symbols. One or more of the headlamp bulbs or other bulbs is burned out or malfunctioning. This is another symbol that may utilize an exclamation point, which always indicates a problem, even if its in the green color. The third symbol to the right, in yellow/amber only, is an alternative Lamp Out indicator.
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In green, it indicates that the lights are on, but one lamp is not working. In yellow/amber, it simply means that a lamp is out.
Note right here that the light to the left if seen in black and white on a Polestar instrument panel means that Trailer Lights are under test. It looks exactly like the first two images above but does not indicate a fault!
Modern LED (Light Emitting Diode) headlamps evidently require a new warning symbol variation. The shining headlamp, represented by a rounded triangle with lines emanating from it, with an exclamation point inside indicates a malfunction in an LED headlamp. The lines angle downward, likely indicating that the problem is with a low (dipped) beam light.
However, the problem here is more likely with circuitry or wiring rather than the bulb, or bulbs, itself or themselves.
Polestar is using the image to the left to indicate a lamp malfunction. However, it should not be confused with the image to the right, which bears a strong resemblance. It is an Active, Adaptive or Cornering Light Malfunction Symbol! Follow the link for more.
Some vehicles may include a very helpful message in the instrument panel noting exactly which bulb has malfunctioned. In this case, and assuming it is a headlamp, it will also likely add whether it is low (dipped) beam, or high (main) beam. The terms low and high beam are commonly used in North America, while dipped and main beam are in more common use in Europe.
Regardless, service the lights as soon as possible.
Even with older, non-LED lighting, there is the outside possibility of a bad fuse or a broken wire or some other electrical issue affecting the headlamps. Also note that in most cases, it will be a low (dipped) beam that will likely be affected, as these spend the most time illuminated.
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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