Running Lamps
These are the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) symbols. One of these lights will be on in green with small dots or lines radiating out from an oval shape intended to represent a lamp whenever the running lamps are switched on. A DRL system is required on all vehicles sold new in Canada. The system causes the low-beam headlamps to be turned on when the car is being operated in daylight. So, why are they green?
- But first, are you sure one of these is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below.
- Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page or Text Symbols page and scan again!
In some European models, the text symbol DRL is shown when the running lights are in use. They are active when the light switch is off and the ignition is on. The green color is meant only to show that the lights are on and working.
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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Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow.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.
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
This is an Overdrive (O/D) Off Indicator 
This 
This is a variant called Electronic Throttle Control System (
A picture symbol, an Electronic Shift Malfunction indicator in amber. Click 
This is a variant with a German acronym. 
Do not confuse the third image with the 
This is a Check Suspension Indicator 
Since this system will be tied to the vehicle’s Stability Control System, a second light, similar to the one to the right that looks like a skidding car with or without a line drawn through it, may appear as well, indicating that the Stability Control System has been turned off. 
This is an Engine Malfunction Indicator Light (
These are Tow or Haul Mode and Fault Indicator 
In more advanced models, the second image above with the trailer is used to indicate that a Trailer Merge Assist system has been activated. It is tied directly to the vehicle’s 
The image with arrows above the trailer is no more than a Trailer Connected indicator. It illuminates when a trailer is connected and will go out when it is disconnected. The same is true of the image of the trailer hitch ball and the trailer, both shown in 
These versions however, are trailering fault warnings. The exclamation point in the triangle above the trailer in the first image is the give away. If illuminated, check all electrical connections as well as the physical trailer connection(s). Otherwise, the issue may involve the main vehicle’s suspension or stability control systems and a qualified service shop will be needed.
Some vehicles offer Sway Control for use while towing, a system that works in in conjunction with the Stability Control System. And like that system, the Sway Control Indicator will flash when sway is detected and being corrected.
These are All-wheel Drive (AWD) Disabled Indicator 
If a wrench (or spanner) or exclamation point is shown alongside the caricature of a vehicle’s undercarriage, it indicates a fault and nothing else, as does the text message asking for service. Malfunctions may be indicated by the system before a real problem is obvious, but don’t waste time. See your dealer or authorized service center soon, as AWD repairs are expensive and continued use will increase the likelihood of serious damage.
These text symbols are found in an Electric Vehicle (EV) and become an excuse to add the word electric to the AWD or 4WD acronyms. The first light is yellow/amber when the electric four-wheel drive (e4WD) system is limited, and will turn off when the system is working normally. If this light is red, there is likely a malfunction. But as with all electronic systems, restart the vehicle to see if the system resets.
The text symbols to the right are very much related.