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

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/

Lambda Sensor Warning Indicator Symbol

Lambda Sensor

Lambda Sensor IndicatorThis is the Lambda Sensor Warning Indicator symbol. The symbol says that the exhaust gas oxygen sensor is dirty or inoperative. The vehicle should not be driven for any length of time in this condition as this sensor is key to controlling the oxygen to fuel ratio in your engine. The Greek letter lambda looks like an upside down Y and it is shown in a triangle.

  • Before continuing, 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!

The symbol is an odd mix of green and yellow/amber colors, not to mention a letter from the Greek alphabet, and is seen only in older vehicles. Yellow/amber is a warning color while green is intended to inform and not to warn. The Check Engine Light is used to covers this fault in later models.

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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/lambda-sensor-warning-indicator-symbol/

Engine Start-Stop Indicator Symbols

Engine Start-Stop

Engine Start Stop IndicatorEngine Start Stop Fault IndicatorThese are Engine Start-Stop Indicator symbols. The abbreviations actually stand for Engine (ENG Auto Stop (A-STOP)). Green indicates that the engine has been shut off, while the light in yellow/amber indicates a malfunction in the system. The engine remains running and the vehicle can be driven.

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

Developed for hybrid vehicles, Start-Stop systems are now in use in vehicles with gas engines as a fuel saving measure. The engine is shut down at stop lights, etc., and re-started automatically when the gas pedal in depressed.

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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-start-stop-indicator-symbols/