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

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BMW and Mini Videos: Handling Dead Key Fob Batteries

How to Open, Start and Replace Fob Batteries in BMW and Mini Vehicles

We have eleven Videos with Help for Your BMW or Mini.

This video offers help replacing the dead battery in BMW’ latest key fob.

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Here we have new 4-, 5-, and 7-Series sedans and large SUVs, gas and electric powered!

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This video collects all we have on BMW models into a single offering.

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This video covers the 2019 and newer BMW X3. A new version of a hidden key hole.

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An updated video replacing the battery in a common BMW key fob.

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Starting with the 2017 540i, a whole new key hole cap.

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Starting in 2015, the 7-Series features a new hidden key hole style and procedure.

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This video updates the one below and includes the removal of the key hole cover using an X5.

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This video will walk you though the process of getting in and starting BMWs without hidden key holes.

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Here’s a video for owners of 2014 and newer Mini Cooper Hardtops. Yet another hidden key hole style…

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This is an updated video replacing the battery in a newer version of the key fob.

Models covered include the 2-Series, 3-Series, 5-Series, i3, i8, M2, M3, M4, M6, X3, X4, X6, X7, Z4, Cooper Clubman, Convertible, Countryman, Paceman, Hardtop, 7-Series, X1, X5, i4, i5, i7 and iX.

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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/2016/05/bmwmini-video-help-with-dead-key-fobs/

Sway Bar Disconnected Indicator Symbols

Sway Bar

Sway BarThis is a Sway Bar Disconnected Indicator symbol. It indicates that the sway bar has been disconnected electronically. If this was not intended, the disconnect switch may have been activated inadvertently.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Text Symbols page and scan again!

Sway bar faultA vehicle may have the capability to have the sway bar disconnect electronically. This allows greater front suspension travel in for off-road applications and should only be used (disconnected) in these applications. The process is controlled by the Sway Bar switch on the dashboard. A fault in the control of this feature will result in the same symbol, with the added exclamation point.

A sway bar is vital to the control of any vehicle in normal driving conditions. If it does not re-engage, the sway bar indicator will flash continuously. Do not attempt to drive the vehicle above 15 miles per hour and have the system serviced as soon as possible.

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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/2016/05/sway-bar-disconnected-indicator-symbol/

Three Things to Know about Automatic Braking

Automatic Braking

The news in March 2016 is that 20 auto manufacturers and counting have agreed to roll out automatic braking in their cars by the 2022 model year. These are terrific systems and a technology we love and we only argue that there is little reason other than cost to wait a full six years for full roll out.

Smart Cruise Control Radar Warning IndicatorRegardless, here are three things to know about these systems.

1) Naming

Pre-collision System, Auto Braking, Automatic Emergency Braking, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Collision Avoidance – these are all names for the same thing and serve only to pump up the egos of manufacturers. There is simply no reason for multiple naming schemes that confuse the average driver who has more than enough to remember about his or her car. Anti-lock brakes has satisfied everyone from the start and never needed embellishment. The trend that somehow allows each manufacturer to give its own moniker to every new safety system is senseless and needs to stop.

Standardize on one name. Period.

2) Presentation

Subaru gets a gold star here. It has been advertising its Eye Sight system for some time, using unmanned cars aimed at static obstacles. By contrast, Nissan and Infiniti have been advertising their systems using drivers in traffic who are simply not paying attention. Hyundai went this route with its Super Bowl ad featuring Ryan Reynolds and Volkswagen has recently got into the distracted driver act. Mercedes has gone both ways, using an obstacle course in one ad and a driver who actually puts a child in the driver’s seat of a fully autonomous vehicle in another. Have the airbags been removed??

We’ve taken Mercedes-Benz and Nissan to task for their advertising in the past. Safety systems are no substitute for paying attention while behind the wheel and certainly not an excuse for essentially teaching drivers that their new car doesn’t need them to pay attention to the road or to the safety of their passengers.

3) Liability

A self driving Google car, with a driver on board but not in control, was recently involved in an accident in California while in testing and Google said a very funny thing. Its car turned into a city bus and the company said “In this case, we clearly bear some responsibility…”. Some responsible? Who else is there to blame?

The industry says that liability issues surrounded autonomous systems have yet to be ironed out. Months ago, Volvo said flatly that it would take responsibility for any accidents that result from a failure of its autonomous features. The roll out of automatic braking is underway and there is no more time to decide. If auto manufacturers are going to install systems that they will claim will stop a vehicle before a collision, then those manufacturers have placed themselves in the path of liability.

This is a collision that cannot be avoided.

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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/2016/03/three-things-to-know-about-automatic-braking/

Key Fob Battery Replacement Videos (Remote Controls. Smart Keys)

How to Replace Batteries in Key Fobs.

We post videos here of us replacing batteries in key fobs or remotes.

Manufacturers are listed in alphabetical order. All GM, Stellantis (FCA (except Wagoneer)), Nissan, and Toyota Motors made vehicles are grouped together under their parent company names.

Table of Contents

Acura Fobs

Acura latest key fob

 

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A new style Acura fob here.

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Acura older key fob.

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Alfa Romeo Fob

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Audi Fobs

Audi, common key fob.

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Audi, newer key fob.

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Audi new generation (2019) key fob.

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Audi flip key, updated, key start and keyless start models.

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BMW Fobs

BMW, common key fob.

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BMW, updated version of the above video.

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BMW, newer key fob.

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And an update of the video above.

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BMW 2022 and newer fob.

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FCA Fobs

FCA, newer (rounded) Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge key fob battery, updated.

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FCA, early (tapered) Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge key fob battery replacement.

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FCA, for a Fiat.

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FCA, newest key fob style.

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FCA, for Maserati.

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FCA for a new Jeep flip key fob.

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Ford, Lincoln Fobs

Ford and Lincoln, one of three key fob styles, updated.

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Ford and Lincoln, a second key fob style.

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Ford/Lincoln, a third fob, introduced in 2016.

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General Motors Fobs

General Motors fob in use since 2021 across all makes.

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General Motors late model fob.

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GM, a newer Chevrolet key fob.

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An even newer Chevrolet fob, and better battery handling.

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GM, a Buick flip key.

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GM, Buick key fob, updated.

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GM, for a Cadillac.

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GM, 2021 and newer Cadillac.

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GM, for GMC models.

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This one is for a Chevrolet flip key, still in use with some keyless start cars.

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Holden Fob

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Honda Fobs

Honda, older key fob.

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And a new Honda key fob. Be VERY careful with these!

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Hyundai, Kia Fobs

Kia key fob, Pre-2014. Some Hyundai fobs may be similar.

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Newer Kia key fob.

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This video cover the side button 2019 and newer Kia fob

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This one is for a newer Hyundai key fob. A little different from the one above.

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Land Rover Jaguar Fobs

A fob from Land Rover. Newer Jaguars also use this style.

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Post 2018 (roughly) Land Rover, Jaguar DIY key fob battery replacement.

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Toyota, Lexus Fobs

Most common Lexus key fob. Toyota fobs may be similar.

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Next gen Lexus or Toyota key fob, updated.

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2019 and newer Lexus.

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This one covers Toyotas exclusively.

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Toyota Post 2018 key fob battery replacement.

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Mercedes-Benz Fobs

Older Mercedes-Benz key fob.

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New style Mercedes-Benz key fob.

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Mitsubishi Fob

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Nissan, Infiniti Fobs

Most common four button Nissan and Infiniti key fobs, updated.

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Nissan three button key fob, updated.

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The latest key fob style, so far used in an Infinity only.

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Porsche Fob

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Subaru Fob

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Tesla Fobs

Tesla fob, Model X only.

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This one covers the Model S.

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VW Fobs

Volkswagen flip key-style key fob.

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Volkswagen embedded mechanical key style.

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Newer flip key style.

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Volvo, Polestar Fobs

Volvo key fob, older models.

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Volvo, Polestar, new generation key fob.

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Wagoneer Fob

Wagoneer key fob, new models (post 2021).

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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/2016/03/replacing-fob-remote-or-smart-key-batteries/

Push Button Start — A Little Touch Will Do Ya

Push Button Start

So, we recently put together a video about push button or keyless start systems. Why? Well, it may be a bit silly, but its been nagging at us that the results just may be start button failures in the future.

Push ButtonYou see, no matter what the start button in your push button start car looks like, or even if its a lever, a single press is a command to start the car and is all that’s needed. Yet we have seen automotive professionals at all levels from service writers to technicians and from sales people to automotive journalists repeat the same mistake — holding the button down until the vehicle starts! It is a habit left over from key start cars, where the key needs to held in the start position until the engine starts, and is simply not necessary.

The video demonstrates multiple times in multiple vehicles that it is completely unnecessary. A single touch, and you’re off.

We haven’t found anyone who can say for a fact that holding the button actually causes any harm. Although once underway, many manufacturers make a press and hold of the button an emergency shut down procedure. But, since holding the button down until the engine starts is unnecessary, why do
it? Just press and go. Maybe it will save a little maintenance cost down the road.

For more videos and information on push-button start cars and automotive warning lights, check our channel on YouTube or search here at DashboardSymbols.com.

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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/2016/02/push-button-start-a-little-touch-will-do-ya/

Key Out Indicator Symbol

Key Out

Key Out IdicatorThis is the Key Out Indicator symbol. This light will blink if there is an attempt to start push button or keyless start vehicle when the key fob is not present. A chime may be heard as well. Most manufacturers use picture symbols for this purpose, like the one shown below.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Text Symbols page and scan again!

Without the key fob present, the vehicle will only go into accessory mode. The light will go out if the key fob is removed after the car is started and the car begins to move.

Similar System

Key Warning IndicatorYou can find additional information on the subject and more symbols used by clicking here.

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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/2016/01/key-out-indicator-symbol/

Recuperative or Regenerative Brake System Indicators

Regenerative Braking

Regenerative Braking IndicatorThese are the Recuperative or Regenerative Brake System (RBS) Indicator symbols. If this symbol is illuminated on your instrument panel, the RBS is malfunctioning. This type of system is found in Hybrid and electric vehicles and uses the function of slowing down to generate electricity for the main high voltage battery.

  • Before continuing, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
  • Otherwise, you can return to our main Text Symbols page and scan again!

Regeneration iconRegeneration indicatorThe two additional version to the left are Regenerative Braking Icon Indicator symbols. they appear as a household battery with arrows circling it or circling inside it. The word ‘Regen’ appears below in one. A horizontal charge bar may appear as well. The symbol remains in gray scale until it is active, when the battery and arrows appear green.

These icons will also appear in gray scale when regenerative power is limited because the high voltage battery is near full charge or is cold.

Max regenerationMax regenerationThese also appear as household batteries, but as Max Regeneration indicators, they are meant to indicate that maximum regeneration capability has been engaged and operating. They will be accompanied by the following instrument cluster messages: Max Regeneration On when the feature is turned on, Max Regeneration Off when the feature is turned off, and Max Regeneration Unavailable when the feature is requested, disabled.

The indicator light will flash for five seconds. It appears in green on the instrument panel and in white in the message center.

Regenerative brake indicatorRegenerative brake indicator blueThese indicators come from another manufacturer, Kia, which uses arrows and the colors blue and white.  The number of arrows, 1, 2 or 3, indicates how much regeneration has been set: 1 is lowest, and we’ve chosen to show 3. In white, regeneration is not taking place. In blue, regeneration is occurring. The arrows appear in what looks like a battery box.

Regeneration boostThis is a Regeneration Boost Indicator symbol. It is seen when the driver chooses to increase the regeneration braking force. The result is that the vehicle will slow more quickly when the accelerator pedal is released. It appears as a foot on a pedal with an up and down arrow.

Deceleration stage indicatorSimilarly, Honda Motors Corp. offers the option the increase or decrease the rate of regeneration using a paddle on the steering wheel stalk. The result is the symbol to the left, a Deceleration Paddle Selector Indicator. Using the deceleration paddle selector, the driver can you sequentially shift through six stages of deceleration. The more larger V shapes are seen, the more deceleration is chosen. The M indicates that the choice has been locked in, suggesting the letter should be an L!

In the vast majority of electric and hybrid vehicles, the actual brake system is not involved. However, recuperative braking slows the vehicle and a malfunction of the system will require more use the vehicle’s brakes to come to a stop.

In vehicles where the brake system is involved,  braking performance may be affected and pedal travel may be lengthened. Any loss of brake performance presents an accident risk. Have your dealer or qualified repair shop address this as soon as possible.

Related Symbols

Brake force dist indicatorElectronically Controlled Brake WarningThe symbols to the right are also used as Regenerative Brake System Indicators. Click here to learn more.

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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/2015/12/recuperative-brake-system-indicator/