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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  1. Information Displays and Message Centers — 10 comments

Author's posts

Dazed and Confused: Automakers’ Education Dilemma

Automakers’ Education Dilemma

Drivers and automotive service personnel are often very different animals. But they share one trait. New technologies have them all dazed and confused: drivers trying to understand those technologies and service personnel saddled with trying to explain them, and getting those explanations to stick.

Despite years of failure, car companies continue to believe that education is the way to go. Over the last 12 months, Ford, General Motors, Volkswagen, and Lexus have all set or reset education initiatives. Just like those that have come and gone, these new initiatives will likely fail, leaving all involved still dazed and confused.

The question must finally be asked. What do car companies know about education? Given the continued difficulties they face when introducing new features to consumers, the answer would have to be very, very little. The reality is they know nothing about education, just as educators know nothing of building cars!

Please do not misunderstand. We will not advocate for the improvement of consumer education. If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result, then the automobile industry is already suffering from a collective insanity.

So why does education fail? We can think of two major failings. First, we have seen salesmen and service personnel alike make the same fundamental mistake and whether or not you have recently purchased a new car, you have likely experienced it too. It’s the ‘watch this’ problem. All of us have had someone sit down at a computer to ‘show us’ how to do something. We watch the results on the screen while someone else’s fingers manipulate the keyboard and mouse. In the end, we are left with absolutely no idea what was done to get to the result.

Still, that’s not the real reason education doesn’t work. The question is, how do any of us actually learn? Think of what you remember from school. Any school. Not easy is it?

So, the second reason is that in fact, we learn by doing. And repeating. Over and over. So, a driver will learn how to connect a new cell phone to his infotainment system by connecting at least three of them. Hopefully in rapid succession. A driver will finally understand what to do when the tire pressure warning light comes on the fourth time she has to deal with it.

Unfortunately, all that information can and will be lost with the passage of time. And time will pass between the sightings of a trouble light or the need to connect a new phone.

So, what is a car company to do? How about an infotainment system that does a show and tell on connecting a new phone. The instructions are out there and accessible to a connected infotainment system. And yes, we said ‘tell’: verbal instructions as well as on-screen visuals. How about connecting that voice to the instrument panel to that same infotainment system and having it give at least a rudimentary explanation for that warning light that just came on? Either could easily include an option to call the nearest dealer or roadside assistance for help.

Now those would be steps in the right direction, unless the car companies are not actually tired of frustrated drivers and service personnel.

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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/2012/08/dazed-and-confused-automakers-education-dilemma/

Engine Oil Level and Sensor Indicators

Engine Oil Level

Check oil level indicatorEngine Oil Level SensorOil pressure sensor malfunctionOil Level Sensor FailureThese are alternative to or in addition to Engine Oil Level Warning Indicator symbols. They are used by a handful of manufacturers. The added text or images point the way. Despite the yellow/amber color, these two symbols should be addressed as soon as possible. The exclamation point added to the oil can is also a Sensor Malfunction Indicator and is shown in red or yellow/amber. In these cases, the oil level cannot be sensed by the vehicle. More below…

  • Before continuing, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, continue on below.
  • Otherwise you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

The first, with the wrench or spanner on one side, is a warning to check the oil level. If the vehicle tracks the mileage since the previous oil change, the light is a warning that an oil change is due.

The second, with the word SENSOR in it, says that the vehicle can no longer warn you if the oil level or pressure drops dangerously low. The wavy line is meant to indicate ‘level’ and the drop represents oil. This symbol should frankly be red as either condition can severely damage your engine and make for a very bad day. Have your dealer or authorized service center repair it immediately.

More Versions

Engine Oil level Minimum IndicatorLow oil level indicatorThe same symbol with the added text MIN, says that the engine’s oil level has dropped to its minimum level for safe operation. Alternatively, the symbol shown as a dip stick with a drop of oil falling from it in red also indicates that the oil level is too low. In either case, add some oil as soon as you can or better yet, use this as an opportunity to get an oil and filter change.

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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/2012/08/engine-oil-sensor-and-level-indicators/

Automotive Warning Lights: Scrap the Useless System

Is There Any Value in Current Dashboard Symbols?

Recent discussions in the automotive press (since deleted) have railed on the uselessness of the check engine light or called for an outright ban of the light and other automotive warning lights.

And they’re on to something. Lets face it. Scrap the useless system. The current and growing crop of automotive warning lights, including the check engine light, without the associated fault code or codes says nothing, to the driver in particular. However, in point of fact, the entire warning and indicator light system suffers from the very same problem:

  • What is an oil light without an oil gauge?
  • What is a charging system light without a volt or amp meter?
  • What is an ABS light without a fault code?
  • What are any of the hundreds of other lights without more information?

What Should We Do Instead?

Of course, fault codes, gauges and meters are only of use to those with the ability to interpret them, which is the source of the ‘idiot light’ system in the first place. But the plain fact is that today’s vehicles have the capability to display not only an indicator light and fault code, but also an explanation of what is actually wrong in plain language AND what needs to be done at that moment:

  • Can the car be driven under the condition?
  • Does the car need to be towed?
  • Is there a REAL danger of loss of control?
  • Etc., etc., etc.

Unfortunately, it is not likely that any manufacturer will step up and risk giving more detailed information to lay people out of liability fears. But the system as it exists now runs the real risk of needlessly frightening drivers with the circus of indicator and warning lights that can pop up at the drop of a gas cap. And sometimes two and three lights at a time.

Further, with 20, 30 and even more indicators on instrument panels today, is there not a risk of saturation? The 2017 Audi Q7 has over 100 lights or combinations of lights that may be shown!

When is enough enough? Every new system added to a vehicle is met with a new indicator and or acronym that, despite the best industry efforts, remain a mystery to the average driver. Seriously, most drivers need to get the kids to school and get themselves to their jobs. They are not car people and simply have too much on their plate as it is.

Even experienced service personnel have to search their memory banks to correctly identify the meaning of some of the more obscure acronyms (AFS does NOT start with ‘Automatic’… ). Should the industry expect more from drivers?

Seriously, before someone freaks out behind the wheel let’s stop throwing new lights at every new vehicle add-on and consider some alternatives. At the very least, new and existing lights should be accompanied by real and useful information.

And since drivers should NOT be reading while driving, how about having the vehicle talk to the driver by voice? With all the discussion surrounding driver distraction and the integration of Siri and other voice command systems into infotainment systems, we are not so far from this ‘Eyes Free’ solution. It’s just a little to the left, in the instrument panel…

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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/2012/07/automotive-warning-lights-scrap-a-useless-system/

Clogged Air Filter Indicator

Clogged Air Filter

Clogged Air Filter IndicatorThis is a Clogged Air Filter Indicator symbol. It means that the internal combustion engine’s air filter or air cleaner is clogged and is in need of replacement. It is not usually critical, but replace it or have it replaced as soon as possible for proper engine performance and fuel economy.

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

The filter removes dirt and debris carried by the outside air before it can reach the combustion chambers. The symbol includes arrows meant to represent airflow and the direction of airflow though dots, which represent the filter.

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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/2012/07/clogged-air-filter-indicator/

Engine or Transmission Electronics Fault Indicator Symbols

Engine or Transmission Fault

Engine Fault IndicatorThis is an Engine or Transmission Electronics Fault Indicator symbol. Another catch-all symbol, the car with a wrench or spanner in it – which looks like a half moon on a pole – points to a problem with the engine or transmission electronics. The vehicle may default to an emergency operation mode, which provides an opportunity to bring it to your dealer or qualified service center under its own power, albeit likely reduced.

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

Service reminder indicatorThe symbol showing a vehicle with a wrench or spanner inside it is also used as an electronics fault warning. However, some manufacturers use the very same symbol as a service reminder only. If the vehicle is operating properly, and its been a long time since its last oil service, this may be the only issue. Consult your owners manual to be sure and click here for more.

Engine electronics indicatorThis symbol is used as an Engine Electronics Fault Indicator only. It is seen as a rectangle with a wavy or ragged line inside. Whether or not any change in the vehicle operation is seen, the fault should be checked out by a good service shop as soon as possible.

Note that with either symbol, an issue with electronics can sometimes be resolved be shutting the vehicle down and restarting. Its worth a shot…

The symbol may also indicate a fault in the vehicle’s immobilizer system electronics or fuel filter issues, which will also require a qualified service center to repair. In effect, this symbol is a Check Engine Light, but some manufacturers use it to separate emissions issues (Check Engine) from the others noted here (Engine Fault).

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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/2012/07/engine-fault-indicator-symbol/

Brake Assist System (BAS) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) Fault Indicator

Brake Assist

Slip and Brake Fault IndicatorBrake Assist and Stability Control Fault IndicatorThe picture symbol, and the acronyms in the text fault symbol shown next to it, both mean Brake Assist System (BAS) and Electronic Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), which is a Stability and Traction Control system. Any problem with the Brake Assist System shuts down the ASR, since ASR requires that all brake functions are operating properly for its own proper operation. The picture is of a tire with a double-ended arrow in it meant to suggest the tire and the vehicle it is attached to rolling or moving.

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

The Brake Assist system helps in emergency braking situations when the driver can’t push the brake pedal hard enough. A sensor recognizes the attempt at full braking and transmits the signal calling for full brake pressure from the hydraulic booster reducing the stopping distance.

Remember that these advanced systems come into play in extreme driving conditions, such as rounding a curve excessively fast. The brakes will continue to operate normally with the enhancements shut down. So, your vehicle is safe to drive under most normal conditions. Contact your dealer or authorized repair facility for repairs as soon as possible.

Related Symbol

ESP / BAS IndicatorNote that BAS/ASR are essentially the same as ESP/BAS, but be aware of the acronyms. You can learn more about ESP/BAS 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/2012/07/brake-assist-and-anti-slip-regulatio-fault-indicator/

Rear Active Steer (RAS) Fault Indicator

Rear Active Steer

Rear Active Steer Fault IndicatorThis is a Rear Active Steer (RAS) Fault Indicator symbol. When active and working properly, the electronically-controlled system steers the vehicle using all four wheels. The light illuminates if a malfunction occurs in the system, in which case the RAS function will have stopped. The vehicle’s ordinary front steering will operate normally and the vehicle can be driven safely.

  • 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!

The RAS will also be turned off – and thus turning the warning light on – if an engine or brake fault is detected. If either the Check Engine or the ABS light is on, address them first with your dealer. The Rear Active Steering will also be disabled if a Traction or Stability Control fault is detected. If these warning lights are active, have them addressed first.

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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/2012/07/rear-active-steer-ras-fault-indicator/