Category: Dashboard Symbols & Tell-tales

DashboardSymbols.com descriptions of the symbols and tell-tales used on automobile and light truck dashboards and instrument panels.

EV Charging Indicator Symbols

EV Charging

Plug in IndicatorCharging Indicator Symbol Charge cord connectedCharge cable indicatorThese are EV Charging Indicator symbols used in electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The indicators, the first of which look like a typical electric plug, will be illuminated or blinking while the vehicle’s main battery is being charged and will turn off when it is fully charged.

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

Charge indicatorCharge indicatorMinor variations include color (red, yellow/amber, green or black and white) and wire style or the use of the word CHARGE or the short CHG version. A charge level indicator may also be shown on the instrument panel. The red and yellow/amber versions are intended to ensure that no attempt is made to drive the vehicle away while it is still plugged in.

Charge ongoing indicatorThis pair of symbols is from Lincoln. The first in green indicates that charging is ongoing. The second in yellow/amber/orange indicates that charging has failed. The exclamation point is there for added emphasis. If the second indicator flashes for 30 seconds, it indicates that the problem with the charge is exterior to the vehicle.

Save indicatorFinally, some hybrid vehicles include a SAVE mode indicator. When in Save mode, the vehicle drives in a way that maintains the charge level of the high voltage battery. The indicator will likely be shown in black and white in the information display.

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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/2012/03/charging-indicator-symbol/

Low Brake Fluid Indicator Symbol

Brake Fluid

Low Brake Fluid IndicatorThis is the Low Brake Fluid Indicator symbol. Our first recommendation is to take your vehicle to the dealer or authorized service center  for maintenance. You may check the brake fluid level and add fluid appropriate to the vehicle make and model, but please read on first…

  • 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!

It is important to note that the brake fluid level will drop as the brake pads wear down normally. Thus it may be simply be time for new brakes. Otherwise, there may be a leak in the brake system. While both are serious, a leak is worse. Use this light as a sign that your vehicle should be checked ASAP for important brake maintenance.

The image includes wavy lines inside the circle and brackets used as a standard to indicate brakes.

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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/2012/03/low-brake-fluid-indicator-symbol/

Turn Assist Indicator Symbols

Turn Assist

Turn Assist IndicatorThis is a Turn Assist Indicator symbol. It will be illuminated only when the function is active and the green color only says it is operating. Turn assist is available in some all-wheel drive vehicle and only when the additional slow-speed or rough terrain systems are also active.

  • 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 image looks like the four wheels drawn in a stick figure with a looping arrow in the front, with the wheels seemingly pointing only to the right.

Trail turn assist leftTrail turn assist rightTrail turn assist left grayTrail turn assist right grayAlong the same lines, these four come from Ford and the new (2024) Bronco and are named Trail Turn Assist indicators. Not happy with a single bent arrow, the system shows the image associated with the vehicles last turn. Further, the images go gray when not in use.

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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/2012/03/turn-assist-indicator-symbol/

EV, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Battery Charge and Warning Symbols

EV Battery Warnings

Hybrid Battery Trouble IndicatorEV Battery Charge stateEV charge warningThese are the EV (Electric Vehicle), Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Battery Charge and Warning symbols. The first light indicates a malfunction in an electrified vehicle’s main battery, which must be serviced by your dealer or authorized service center as soon as possible. It is distinguished from the Charging System Warning symbol with the addition of the word Main under the image of a more typical battery, or by the addition of the exclamation point, and points to a system failure rather than a charging failure. Seen in yellow/amber/orange and as a household battery or as the triple car battery, its time to charge.

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

Many, Many More Versions

Traction battery cut offThis version essentially points to a total system failure, unless it is seen in yellow/amber. The battery image with the line running through it indicates that the hybrid battery will not take a charge and the entire propulsion system will be shut down. The vehicle will need a qualified service shop and require a tow. However, in yellow/amber, the manufacturer suggests to make see a qualified shop “if the problem persists!”

Battery charging symbolThis version, shown in the vehicle’s information display, will be seen when the Mild Hybrid System is charging its battery. a Mild Hybrid System uses a 48-volt battery to assist the drive train, much lower capacity than the majority of hybrid systems. It appears as a double A battery with a lightning bolt inside.

Hybrid battery chargingHybrid battery holding chargeThese two will also to be seen in the vehicle’s information display. The first indicates the hybrid battery is charging. The other indicates that the battery is holding its charge. We surmise that this means that everything is functioning as expected.

Charge mode indicatorThis is a hybrid Charge Mode indicator. The light in the instrument cluster comes on when Charge Mode is switched on. While a hybrid charges its high-voltage battery automatically, with this system from Mazda, the vehicle can be told to charge the battery only and not using its power while the gasoline engine is running. Power is generated to a preset target amount, and when reached, power is generated to maintain it.

High Voltage System FaultThis is a High Voltage System Fault Indicator symbol for a Plug-in hybrid. An exclamation point is shown in a drawing of what looks like a D battery, which is meant to invoke the system’s battery. It could also be described as a box or a rectangle. It is likely that only the vehicle dealer can correct a problem with this system.

Hybrid Warning IndicatorHybrid battery fault indicatorTraction battery warningWe found this one in the owner’s manual for two hybrids, and only one made clear that this is a hybrid battery malfunction. It was also found in an EV and also in fact indicates a main battery or system malfunction. Also, there will likely be an additional message on the instrument panel. Look for it and please check with your dealer or qualified service shop! Do not continue driving!

Hybrid battery charge indicatorHybrid battery charge indicatorFinally, this version is used as a Battery Charge Indicator. It is shown in conjunction with a gauge that shows the actual charge level. It is seen in gray scale and does not indicate any trouble with the system. Click here for 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/2011/12/hybrid-battery-warning-symbol/

Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Operation Symbol

Shift Lock

Shift Lock IndicatorThis is the Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) or an Engine Start Operation Indicator symbol. When the ignition is on, ASL locks the shifter in neutral or park. The symbol of a shoe inside the typical circular brake symbol is a reminder that the brake must be stepped on to release the lock and shift the transmission into drive or reverse.

There are yet more variations used in the industry below …

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

Engine Start Operation IndicatorUse Brake IndicatorStep on the brake indicatorThe symbol of a shoe, boot or foot on or very near a pedal is a reminder that the brake must be engaged to start a push button or keyless start car. The image may appear on an instrument panel or on the console near the shifter, but with a start push button or keyless start vehicle, the indicator will appear on the instrument panel.

Similar Symbols

Depress Brake PedalPredictive Efficiency AssistDon’t confuse these symbols with either of those to the right. Click here for more on the green symbol or here for more on the next one in yellow/amber.

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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/2011/12/automatic-shift-lock-symbol/

EV Mode Operation Indicators

EV Mode

EV MODE IndicatorEV mode indicatorEV mode indicatorThese are (Electric Vehicle) EV MODE Indicator symbols. Hybrid vehicle manufacturers may allow drivers to choose to operate the vehicle with the electric motor only powered by the hybrid battery for as long the battery will hold out. The vehicle will then automatically switch back to its internal combustion engine. This indicator, with or without the word Mode,  will be lit when this choice has been made by the driver.

  • Before moving on, are you sure one of these is your symbol (see more below)??
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

More Versions

EV mode onEV mode unavailableThese variations also leave out the word mode. The first indicates that the vehicle is being driven as an electric vehicle only, as above. But the second symbol adds what is intended to be a clock in the corner. It means that EV mode and the high voltage battery is being saved for a more useful and economical time. It does not and can not indicate a specific time. The last one, with the line through the E and an arrowed circle, indicates that high voltage battery does not have enough juice to operate the vehicle without the help of the gas engine.

Electric modeHybrid mode modee-Save modeThese symbols come by way of Jeep and their new hybrid models, and are Hybrid Drive Mode Indicators. They are seen in white in the information screen. In Electric (EV) Mode, the car runs exclusively on the high-voltage battery until its charge is used up. In Hybrid Mode, the vehicle operates on whatever on all the internal combustion engine and battery power available. In e-Save mode, the battery is reserved for later use.

Green zone indicatorThis is a Green Zone Indicator. It depends on navigation information to tell a hybrid model to extend the use of EV mode in urban areas to protect the local atmosphere. These areas may be parks, hospitals, schools, and the like. Green zone operation can be expanded by the vehicle depending on driver history.

Hybrid intelligent mode indicatorHybrid sport mode indicatorSport sharp modeFinally, these three are associated with Subaru Intelligent (SI) Drive system. As in other cases, the system is designed to maximize hybrid battery life. ‘I’ indicates that intelligent mode is selected, where battery life is automatically maximized. ‘S’ indicates that sport mode is chosen, providing increased performance and leaving battery life in the driver’s hands.

The Sport mode indicator that adds the hash tag is a Sport Sharp mode., which makes the throttle more responsive. The entire SI Drive option is also now found in non-hybrid vehicles from the manufacturer.

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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/2011/12/ev-mode-operation-indicator/

Message Indicator Symbol

Message Indicator

Message Indicator SymbolThis is a Message Indicator symbol. It is used to alert the driver to a message that will be found on the instrument panel’s message display. It may be necessary to “scroll” through various message screens using a selector wheel on the steering wheel to see the appropriate message. It may be a simple reminder that service is due, or may be an alert to a more serious problem.

  • 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!

If there is a more serious problem, in all likelihood other indicators will be illuminated on the instrument panel. See the message shown or locate the other symbol or symbols for additional information.

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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/2011/12/message-indicator-symbol/