Marc Favreau

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

Most commented posts

  1. Information Displays and Message Centers — 10 comments

Author's posts

Special Drive Mode Dashboard Indicators

Drive Modes

Mud ruts mode indicatorSlippery mode indicatorDeep snow mode indicatorPresented here are a number of special low-speed Drive Mode Dashboard Indicators available on some 4-wheel drive vehicles. In truth, they appear to be near useless without context, and all would be better presented simply as text symbols, but are not. Note that all of these indicators are the result of having chosen a drive mode, intentionally or otherwise, and when seen in the information display, they are shown in black and white or gray scale.

  • Before continuing, are you sure one of these is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

The first three shown above are Mud, Ruts Mode, Slippery Mode and Deep Snow Mode Indicators, left to right, made available by one manufacturer.  The Mud, Ruts Mode Indicator is shown as a nonsensical combination of a tree, a wavy line, and four straight lines in yellow/amber/orange. The Slippery Mode Indicator is seen as a bewildering array of wavy lines, what may be rain drops, and a star or snowflake also in yellow/amber/orange. Similarly, the Deep Snow Mode indicator combines wavy lines and snow flakes.

So, if you are surprised to see one of these, its likely that the mode has been set accidentally. Again, they would frankly be better represented as text symbols simply stating the mode.

More Drive Modes

Mud and sand mode indicatorMogul mode indicatorRock mode indicatorLoose and rock ModeRock and dirt modeThis next group comes from another manufacturer and would seem to make choosing the right one next to impossible. Left to right they are Mud and Sand Mode, Mogul Mode, Rock Mode, Loose and Rock Mode, and finally Rock and Dirt Mode Indicators.

Dirt mode indicatorMud mode indicatorDeep snow mode indicatorTrail mode indicatorAnd it didn’t end there. Only a few years later, left to right, they introduced a change to the Dirt Mode Indicator image, added a separate Mud Mode Indicator, a Deep Snow Indicator, and a Trail Mode Indicator in black and white. Again, why so many modes are needed is difficult to understand, and the differences in drive train responses are likely very, very subtle.

In any case, they are represented by shown as a drawings of a vehicle, tipped or vertical, riding a curved lines or hills and mounds and dots meant to be dirt all in green. The first adds a cactus, likely to represent sand, but one could be on a beach!

Yet More Drive Modes

Mud & Sand mode indicatorRock & dirt mode indicatorTrail mode indicatorSand mode indicatorSnow mode indicatorMud mode indicatorAs we noted with the first group, these could all be better represented by text symbols stating the mode, which some manufacturers actually do. Mud & Sand Mode or Rock & Dirt Mode or the more generic Trail Mode are simply spelled out for the driver. Another set goes only by Sand, Snow, or Mud with a vehicle shown above.

In all cases, if you are surprised to see one of these, its likely the mode has been selected accidently. It can then be turned off.

MTS auto indicatorAnd the final surprise is that the same vehicles that use the image symbols offer an AUTO setting, Multi-terrain Select control or MTS AUTO, that will simply choose exactly the mode that is needed.

And Even More Drive Modes

Snow or Dirt modeSnow or mud modeThese are Snow/Dirt and Snow/Mud Mode Indicators, respectively. These modes provide automatic control of wheel slippage in snow or dirt or deeper snow and mud. The vehicles Traction Control is turned off to accommodate the automated system.

Grip controlWhen one the previous modes is chosen, this manufacturer allows for Grip Control, which is its indicator to the left. Grip Control allows for five speed choices, 2 through 6 miles per hour. The system is automatically turned off when the vehicle is braked to a stop.

X-Mode indicatorX-Mode 1 indicatorX-Mode 2 indicatorHere we have three more indicators from Subaru and their X-MODE system. It is the integrated control system of the engine, AWD and Vehicle Dynamics Control system, etc. for driving with bad road conditions. X-MODE helps maintain control in slippery conditions, including uphill and downhill.

The first indicator is found in vehicles that have a single option. The second can be found in vehicle with two options and is for deep snow and mud. The third is the second option and is for snow and dirt.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/04/special-modes-for-4-wheel-drive-vehicles/

Polestar Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights

Polestar 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 Polestar. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.

How They Are Presented

They are roughly ordered by importance, which tends to be by color (red, amber, yellow, orange, green, blue, gray), but there are over 80 of them so be patient!

Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!

Serious trouble or fault indicators
Charging System Trouble Indicator SymbolCharge system trouble indicator -- click for more
Oil Trouble Indicator SymbolOil warning light -- click for more
Temperature Warning Light SymbolEngine temperature warning -- click for more
Power steering failurePower steering trouble indicators -- click for morePower steering fault
Brake Trouble IndicatorBrake trouble indicators -- click for moreBrake Trouble Indicator Canada
Parking Brake Engaged IndicatorPark brake indicators -- click for morePARK symbol
SRS Air Bag Indicator SymbolAir bag warning indicator -- click for more
Common or routine indicators
Seat Belt Reminder SymbolSeat belt reminder -- click for more
Low Battery WarningCharge level indicator -- click for more
Child lock indicatorChild lock indicator -- click for more
Slippery conditions indicatorFrost warning indicator -- click for more
EV system indicators
EV system fault indicatorEV system fault indicator -- click for more
Power Limitation IndicatorPower limitation indicator -- click for more
Ready Mode IndicatorReady indicator -- click for more
Charge cord connectedCharge cable connected -- click for moreCharge cable indicator
Cold battery indicatorCold battery indicator -- click for more
Trouble or fault indicators
Master Warning Light SymbolAttention indicators -- click for moreAttention indicator
SOS malfunction indicatorSOS malfunction indicator -- click for more
Check engineCheck engine light -- click for more
Stability, traction control and fault indicators -- click for moreStability system indicator
Slip Control Off IndicatorStability control off indicator -- click for more
Lane Departure WarningLane keeping fault indicator -- click for more
blind_spot_malfunction_indicatorBlind spot warning malfunction indicator -- click for more
Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolTire pressure monitor indicator -- click for more
ABS Trouble Indicator CanadaAnti-lock brake system fault indicators -- click for moreABS Trouble Indicator US
Suspension system faultSuspension system fault indicator -- click for more
Driver assist systems indicators
Active steering assist indicatorPilot assist alert -- click for more
Driver support system faultDriver assist system fault indicator -- click for more
Lane keeping indicatorLane keeping indicators -- click for moreLane keeping offLane keeping active
Lane departure warning leftMore lane keeping indicators -- click for moreLane departure warning left
Collision warningVehicle detected ahead -- click for more
Evasive maneuver warningEvasive maneuver warning indicator -- click for more
Auto Braking Indicator SymbolCollision warning indicators -- click for moreRear collision warning indicaor
Auto brake hold indicatorAuto brake hold on indicators -- click for moreAuto brake hold
Adaptive cruise control indicatorActive cruise control indicator -- click for more
Special feature and accessory indicators
Cruise Control Indicator SymbolCruise control indicator -- click for more
Driver alert system fault indicatorDriver alert system fault indicator -- click for moreDriver alert indicator
Hill descent control fault indicator -- click for moreHill descent control indicator
Over the air update indicatorOver the air update indicator -- click for more
Steering wheel heatHeated steering wheel on indicator -- click for more
Seat heat onSeat heater on indicator -- click for more
Towbar unlockedTowbar unlocked indicators -- click for moreTow bar unlocked indicator
Trailer fault indicatorTrailer fault indicator -- click for more
Preconditioning indicatorPreconditioning indicator -- click for more
Rain sensor indicatorRain sensor indicators -- click for moreRain sensor
Phone charge iconBattery charge indicator -- click for more
Lighting indicators
Lamp malfunction indicatorLamp out indicator -- click for more
Cornering light indicatorAdaptive front lighting system failure -- click for more
Position lights onPosition lights indicators -- click for morePosition lights failure
Fog Lamp Indicator SymbolFog lamp indicators -- click for moreRear Fog Lamp Indicator
Turn Signal IndicatorTurn signal indicators -- click for moreTurn signal fault indicator
High-beam Assistant IndicatorActive high beam indicators -- click hereAuto high beam failure
Auto high beam indicatorMore active high beam indicators -- click hereAuto high beam off
High Beam On IndicatorHigh and low beam indicators -- click for moreHigh beam failureLow beam failure
Trailer lights check indicatorTrailer lights check indicator -- click for more

Models examined include the Polestar 1, Polestar 2 and Polestar 3.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/04/polestar-warning-lights-and-symbols/

Cross Traffic Alert Dashboard Indicators

Traffic Alerts

Cross traffic alert indicatorCross traffic alertCross traffic assist indicatorThese 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.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Cross traffic alert redThe 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

Blind Spot IndicatorBLIS IndicatorDo 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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/04/cross-traffic-alert-indicator/

Launch Control Dashboard Indicator

Launch Control

Launch control indicatorThis is a Launch Control Indicator symbol. It is seen when Launch Control (LC) is enabled. The indicator is seen only as the LC acronym. Launch Control is a feature that can only be used in a straight line and is specific to vehicles that can be taken from the street and raced on a drag strip.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Text Symbols pages and scan again!

The feature can only be enabled when the vehicle is fully stopped.  LC helps stabilize the vehicle as it accelerates.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/04/launch-control-indicator/

Heads Up Display Dashboard Indicator

Heads Up

Heads up display indicatorThis is a Heads Up Display Indicator symbol. Looking more like a caterpillar than anything automotive, it will be seen when the vehicle is started indicating that the Heads Up Display is working, and when using adaptive cruise control or the collision warning system.  It can appear in any color depending on the system availability.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols pages and scan again!

When in use, the Heads Up Display uses lasers to paint an image on the windshield. It can contain information ranging from the vehicles speed to the distance to a vehicle ahead or even a navigation map.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/04/heads-up-display-indicator/

Hydrogen Leak Dashboard Indicator

Hydrogen Leak

Hydrogen leak indicatorThis is a Hydrogen Leak Indicator symbol. The indicator will be seen briefly on start up, but if it is seen while driving, it is telling you that a hydrogen gas leak is detected. H2 is the chemical term for hydrogen gas. It will be seen in yellow/amber. Honda Motors Corp. is the only company supplying hydrogen powered cars.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Text Symbols pages and scan again!

Among the problems that will be registered immediately in the vehicle is a loss of acceleration and power.  Generating electricity by the fuel cell is also stopped. Immediately stop in a safe place.

The vehicle will need to be checked by a qualified repair shop, and under the circumstances the original dealer may be required.  and have your vehicle checked by an authorized Honda Clarity Fuel Cell dealer.

——————————————————————-

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/02/hydrogen-leak-indicator/

REV Matching Dashboard Indicator

Rev Match

REV indicator in whiteREV indicator in yellow amberREV indicator in redThese are REV Matching Indicator symbols. This is a feature in some vehicles that a manual transmission that ensures the engine RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) are synched properly to the transmission prior to engaging a new gear. REV is short for revolutions.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If so, continue on.
  • If not, you can return to our main Text Symbols pages and scan again!

The warning lamp is seen in various colors: white when Rev Matching is on in Normal mode; and yellow/amber when REV Matching is on in Sport mode; and red when REV Matching is turned
on in a Custom mode.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2021/02/rev-matching-indicator/