The Knowledge Problem There is a serious automotive knowledge gap dividing dealers and drivers. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, in 2012 there are over 17,000 new car dealers in the U.S. and Canada. There is no data available on this next point, but dealers I’ve worked for currently average some 1,700 calls per …
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/02/automotive-warning-lights-multiple-light-syndrome/
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/01/the-automotive-knowledge-gap/
EV, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Battery Charge and Warning Symbols
Battery Charge and Warning These 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 …
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2011/12/hybrid-battery-warning-symbol/
Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Operation Symbol
Shift Lock These are Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) or an Engine Start Operation Indicator symbols. 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 …
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2011/12/automatic-shift-lock-symbol/
EV Mode Operation Indicators
EV Mode These 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 …
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2011/12/ev-mode-operation-indicator/
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2011/12/message-indicator-symbol/
Collision Mitigation Brake System Indicator
Collision Mitigation This is the Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) Indicator symbol. It is a radar-based system that can warn a driver of a potential collision or even apply the brakes on its own to prevent one. These systems are all moving in the direction of automatic braking, which all manufacturers have promised to install …
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2011/12/collision-mitigation-brake-system-indicator/

Automotive Warning Lights: Multiple Light Syndrome
Multiple Light Syndrome This has been a difficult topic to write about. My goal is always to explain an automotive issue so that an average driver can follow along and understand. But I have been over and over and over this article, and I’m still not sure if I’m conveying the message properly. We devoted …
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