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Fault indicators.
The images on this page are Collision Warning and Intervention System Fault Indicators. Where possible we have assigned manufacturers to the indicators.
First versions.
The two indicators seen to the left include an exclamation point meant to indicate the fault. They are templates used for many years that manufacturers have “adjusted” over time.
- Before continuing, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, read on below.
- Otherwise, you can return to our main Manufacturer Symbols pages and scan again!
These systems, and those that follow, are all moving in the direction of Automatic Emergency Braking, which manufacturers have promised to install in all passenger vehicles by roughly 2020.
Newer Collision Warning System Versions
Manufacturers are moving in two directions simultaneously. First, they are making images that may feel more “elaborate” and decorative. The second is the use of gray scale in many, many cases. On the plus side, they will nearly always be accompanied by a text message on the instrument panel noting a possible problem and resolution.
The yellow/amber/orange image with the line through says that the system is restricted. Possible reasons may be as simple as dirt on the sensors. If a car wash or restart does not resolve the issue, there is a fault in the system have the system serviced.
These images indicate a problem. The first to the left adds an exclamation point and indicates a fault with the forward facing camera. A qualified service shop will be needed.
The second, with the line drawn through the car and the radiating lines, indicates that the camera is temporarily unavailable due to its temperature being too high or too low. Camera function will return when the proper temperature range is restored. The third (seen to the left) is similar in that a sensor may be blocked or a temperature problem exists.
Indicators by manufacturer
Audi
The yellow/amber/orange symbol is a fault indicator used by Audi for its Audi Pre-sense System. The company them moved to the black and white indicator, which also points to a fault.
Land Rover
Land Rover is all in on Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and is using the warning symbols to the left. Hopefully its the former. In gray, the AEB system is disabled, which does not necessarily mean a fault. The yellow/amber/orange version, seen here, with the word off likely means blocked sensors or a fault in the system.
Maserati, Dodge
Maserati and Dodge use the image to the left in yellow/amber/orange and the added two seen Again, unlike the forward collision indicator, it eliminates the image of a vehicle in front. It indicates a fault with the use of the exclamation point.
Skoda
Skoda uses the yellow/amber/orange indicator as a fault indicator. The use of the circle in brackets indicates that this is an Auto Braking System as the two elements are common to symbols in nearly all braking indicators.
Smart
Mercedes-Benz Smart division uses very similar symbols to others, changing the shape of the vehicles to match the Smart models. The back of a second vehicle is added and the exclamation point is not included in this fault indicator. It is seen in yellow/amber/orange.
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The material on these pages 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 — 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