DashboardSymbols.com descriptions of the symbols and tell-tales used on automobile and light truck dashboards and instrument panels.
Security, Immobilizer These are Security and/or Immobilizer System Indicator symbols used by auto manufacturers. One of these symbols is illuminated momentarily to indicate that the ignition switch is locked and will need the proper transponder-equipped key fob to start or re-start. The vehicle is immobilized otherwise. Green symbols will flash when the vehicle is immobilized. …
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Service Required These are Maintenance or Service Required Indicators symbols. In most cases, these symbols are used only as a reminder that routine maintenance is needed, such as an oil change, although the car on the lift (below) could suggest a more serious problem. Note immediately that some manufacturers use the image of a vehicle with …
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Traction Control These are all Traction and Active Traction Control Indicator symbols. They indicate that the system has been activated and doing its job to maintain traction in slippery conditions, hence the green color. Like other text indicators, they intend to inform more directly than diagrams. But first, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, …
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Suspension Setting These are Suspension Setting and Malfunction Indicator symbols. In green, they denote settings. In yellow/amber/orange they indicate a problem with the suspension system, with one notable exception. Many high-end vehicles provide the ability to adjust the shock absorber damping mode. A Sport setting will stiffen the ride, while a Comfort or Soft setting will …
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Low Washer Fluid These are all Low Windshield Washer Fluid Indicator symbols. Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir as soon as possible. The first and last images actually resemble an open hand-held fan, which is supposed to be the windshield. The dashed lines represent two steams of water, also used in the second image but …
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Door Ajar etc. These are Door Ajar or Door Open Indicators. Other related symbols are below. Close the door, trunk lid, rear hatch, hood, or whatever is shown as open in the image as soon as possible. The second image is that of a mini van with the sliding doors shown open on either side. …
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4 Wheel Drive These are 4 Wheel Drive Low Indicator symbols. They indicates that the 4 wheel drive is engaged at a low gear ratio. This ratio is useful when maximum power or traction is needed for steep climbs, sandy or muddy conditions, or off-road driving. Four wheel drive is often shown as 4×4 in …
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