Tag: exclamation point

Lamp Out Indicator Symbols

Lamp Out

Headlamp Out IndicatorLamp Out SymbolHeadlamp outLamp out indicatorThese are Lamp Out Indicator symbols. One or more of the headlamp bulbs or other bulbs is burned out or malfunctioning. This is another symbol that may utilize an exclamation point, which always indicates a problem, even if its in the green color. The third symbol to the right, in yellow/amber only, is an alternative Lamp Out indicator.

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In green, it indicates that the lights are on, but one lamp is not working. In yellow/amber, it simply means that a lamp is out.

Trailer lights check indicatorNote right here that the light to the left if seen in black and white on a Polestar instrument panel means that Trailer Lights are under test. It looks exactly like the first two images above but does not indicate a fault!

LED Headlight MalfunctionModern LED (Light Emitting Diode) headlamps evidently require a new warning symbol variation. The shining headlamp, represented by a rounded triangle with lines emanating from it, with an exclamation point inside indicates a malfunction in an LED headlamp. The lines angle downward, likely indicating that the problem is with a low (dipped) beam light.

However, the problem here is more likely with circuitry or wiring rather than the bulb, or bulbs, itself or themselves.

Lamp malfunction indicatorCornering Headlamps Malfunction IndicatorPolestar is using the image to the left to indicate a lamp malfunction. However, it should not be confused with the image to the right, which bears a strong resemblance. It is an Active, Adaptive or Cornering Light Malfunction Symbol! Follow the link for more.

Some vehicles may include a very helpful message in the instrument panel noting exactly which bulb has malfunctioned. In this case, and assuming it is a headlamp, it will also likely add whether it is low (dipped) beam, or high (main) beam. The terms low and high beam are commonly used in North America, while dipped and main beam are in more common use in Europe.

Regardless, service the lights as soon as possible.

Even with older, non-LED lighting, there is the outside possibility of a bad fuse or a broken wire or some other electrical issue affecting the headlamps. Also note that in most cases, it will be a low (dipped) beam that will likely be affected, as these spend the most time illuminated.

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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/2024/03/lamp-out-indicator-symbols/

Active, Adaptive and Cornering Light Malfunction Symbols

Cornering Lights

AFS Off IndicatorAFS indicatorAdaptive Front Lighting System IndicatorThe acronyms AFS and AFLS in these symbols or indicators stand for Active Front-lighting System or Adaptive Front or Cornering Light System. The difference is very subtle and is the result of a manufacturer choice only.

  • But first, is one of these truly your symbol?? If yes, then continue on below. 
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If it includes the word OFF, it indicates that the system has been turned off with an available switch. Look for the switch, which may have been tripped accidently. It may also be tucked nearly under the dashboard where it can be hit by the driver’s knee in a Toyota or Lexus.

More Versions

SRH off indicatorSRH malfunction indicatorThe acronym SRH changes the reference to Steering Responsive Headlights, but is exactly the same type of system. If any of the OFF lights flash or remain lit, they indicate a fault in the system, and your dealer will be needed for a repair. The letters seen alone in yellow/amber/orange is also a malfunction light.

Adaptive lighting indicatorCornering Headlamps Malfunction IndicatorCornering Light Malfunction Indicator 2Cornering light indicatorAdaptive headlamp faultAnother indicator of a malfunction are the picture symbols to the left, a curved arrow, indicating movement, above or split by a headlight beam, one adding the exclamation point. The beam is represented by the closed rounded triangle with lines above it. The last one is seen on its side with a bent arrow in one corner.

The symbol is used by manufacturers who call the system Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), Active Bending Light System (ABL), Static Bending Light System (SBL) or Cornering Headlights. Another example of multiple industry names for the same basic system and again, your dealer will be needed for repairs.

Either headlight system move the direction of the headlights left or right – the arrow – in concert with the steering. When the system is off, the headlights work as they have for a century, so there is no need to be concerned.

Note that these active systems often have an on/off switch that may have been accidentally been tripped on the dashboard (as noted) or inside a menu found in an instrument panel display. Look for the same acronym on a switch or in the menu.

Lamp malfunction indicatorIf you drive a Polestar, note that they have begun using the symbol to the right to indicate that a lamp has malfunctioned. Follow the link 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/2024/03/active-adaptive-and-cornering-light-malfunction-symbols/

Power Steering or Electronic Power Steering Trouble Light

Power Steering

Steering Trouble IndicatorSteering trouble warningSteering fault indicatorThese are Power Steering or Electronic Power Steering warning lights or symbols. The exclamation point is used here, a common sight with newer warning lights, alongside the image of a steering wheel. This is a warning, indicating a problem with the steering system. Depending on the manufacturer, it may appear in red or yellow/amber.

  • There may be hope, but first, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then continue below.
  • Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Steering trouble indicatorPower steering failurePower steering faultThe red indicators are failure lights here and the yellow/amber/orange version is a fault light. In any case, if as an electronic system, there is a chance it can be “reset”. Pull over as soon as possible and shut down the engine and restart it. If the warning light does not go out you will need to take the vehicle to your dealer or authorized repair facility quickly.

The good news is that the vehicle can be driven with a power steering failure. However, the steering will lack the power assist and will be more difficult to steer. So if you choose to proceed, please do so with caution.

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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/2024/03/power-steering-or-electronic-power-steering-trouble-light/

Drivetrain, Shift or Powertrain Trouble Symbols

Powertrain

Drivetrain Trouble IndicatorElectric Shift MalfunctionThese are Drivetrain, Shift or Powertrain trouble symbols or lights, and will be red or yellow/amber if it comes up. This same symbol is also used as an Electric Shift Control System Warning Indicator. It indicates a problem has been detected generally in an automatic transmission or transaxle, or its shift system. This part of the  drivetrain should be serviced as soon as possible.

  • But first, are you sure one of these is your symbol? If yes, then continue below.
  • Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

Transmission fault indicatorThis version in black and white will be seen in the vehicle’s information display. It may indicate that the transmission is overheated or there is a park lock malfunction or a major transmission malfunction. Fortunately, a text description will be seen as well.

Transmission system indicatorThis version is also seen in black and white. It accommodates all of the shift positions with their first letter, D, P, R, etc. If all are seen together and is found to be blinking, there is an issue with the transmission the will need service as soon as possible.

There is little that is user-serviceable in these systems, so you will need the help of your dealer or authorized service center. Some manufacturers also use these to indicate an engine problem, but the Check Engine light is generally reserved for this.

More Versions

Powertrain Trouble IndicatorWhile the exclamation point is a recurring motif in automotive instrument panel symbols, the wrench is a bit more rare. Neither is it very informative unless, a) the driver is already familiar with it or, b) the driver stops and reads the owners manual. It often indicates a transmission problem, particularly if seen in red, but it also is used for other purposes. Do consult your manual.

Settings IndicatorDo not confuse the first image with the Settings Indicator symbol on the left. It is nearly identical to the bumpy circle used when referring to the transmission, but lacks any addition in the center and is shown in gray scale. The settings indicator will most generally be seen in the separate Information Display and is the what we have become used to seeing on our phones and computers.

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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/2024/03/drivetrain-shift-or-powertrain-trouble-symbols/

Master Dashboard Warning Light and Attention Indicators

Master Light

Master Warning Light SymbolThese are both Master Dashboard Warning Light and Attention symbols, in red. If this light is on, there will likely be text displayed as well on the instrument panel, or another warning light. Look for text in particular. It could very well point out something as serious as low oil pressure. However, despite the serious look to the symbol, it is generally associated with simple reminders such as a door ajar or that it is time to change the oil.

  • First, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then read on below!
  • Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

So, what’s up with the next one??

Amber Master Warning Light SymbolThis same symbol, an exclamation point in a triangle, in yellow/amber has been used by European and Asian vehicle manufacturers in two ways. First, it indicates a fault in the vehicle’s Stability Control System, as well as a slip indicator. Click here for more. The vehicle can be driven with caution, but without the benefit of the advanced electronic control system.

Second, it is used in many cases to indicate that a text warning is available in the vehicle’s Information Display. It may involve a malfunction in any system. A Check Control message will likely require changing screens to discover the root problem.

Related Symbols

Attention indicatorAttention indicatorAnd then there are these, which feature a lower case letter “i” in a square. It too is meant to alert the driver to look for a message in the information center, but the message will not involve a serious drivability issue. The manufacturer uses the red triangles for this. It may be seen in yellow/amber or black and white.

If you’re seeing red, see your dealer or authorized service center as soon as possible.

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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/2024/03/master-dashboard-warning-light-and-attention-indicators/

Tire Pressure Monitoring System Dashboard Indicators

Tire Pressure Monitor

Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolThis is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) or Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) warning light symbol. It is also used as Flat Tire Monitor (FTM), which seems redundant. The tell-tale comes on when the inflation on at least one of the tires is reduced about 25% or more. In most cases, that will be about eight pounds. This is easily the most misunderstood symbol you will ever see on your instrument panel.

  • But first, are you sure this is your symbol?? If yes, then continue on below! 
  • Otherwise return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

This is a common light in the fall and winter when outdoor temperatures drop, which has the effect reducing the pressure in your tires—including the spare. This is a bit oversimplified, but cold air takes up less space than warm or hot air. In addition, a single leaking tire will also trigger the light, regardless of season.

If you typically park in a warm garage, the light may show up sporadically after the vehicle has been parked outside for a time, and then returned to a garage. This is a normal response to temperature change, but it would be best to ensure that the tires are properly inflated.

Remember that your spare tire may be part of the system and its pressure should also be checked.

More Versions

Flat tire indicatorThis text version simply says Flat Tire. While this may seem like it would be obvious to a driver, in truth the pressure in a tire can be very, very low and not result in a large change in the handling of some vehicles.

Tire pressure warning highlight indicatorMany manufacturers now add a symbol or information display image that will highlight the tire or tires that are low on air, like the image to the left. Regardless of the symbol seen, the upshot is this: If your are at high speed, reduce your speed. If the tires do not seem to be visually low, it is likely safe to proceed to the nearest service station. The TPMS system will tell you when a tire is low, yes, but one of them leaking quickly, i.e. a single highlighted tire, is a greater danger.

Rare Tire Pressure Light w/ArrowsThis version features two arrows pointing at a ball in the center. It is most commonly found on a reset button on the dash, if one exists. It can, however, show up on the instrument panel of older vehicles and likely means that the system needs to be reset or could mean that a tire is low as well. Regardless, the tire pressures must be checked for the sake of safety.

TPMS Malfunction IndicatorThis light holds the system’s primary acronym, TPMS. It is a Malfunction Indicator only. If your vehicle is equipped with this additional tell tale and it remains lit, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is not operating and needs to be checked by a qualified repair facility.

If your vehicle has only the picture symbols, they will flash to indicate an actual malfunction.
Finally, it is important to note that the light could be activated by other factors. These include radio interference interrupting the system. This will clear when the signal is left behind. Or a wheel, such as the spare, may have been mounted on the vehicle that is not equipped with the TPMS sender.

To be safe, please check your tires…

TPMS light load indicatorLast but not least, this bit of silliness offers a different twist. It is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System Light Load indicator. It illuminates to confirm that the load setting is selected. It appears in black and white as the same slice of a tire, but with a feather inside. The setting essentially tells the TPMS system to expect lower tire pressures, as there is little loading inside the vehicle.

Check out the videos below.

And one checking and filling the tires.

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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.

Related posts:

https://dashboardsymbols.com///2013/08/be-ready-for-your-cars-seasonal-tire-pressure-check/

 

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2024/03/tire-pressure-monitoring-system-dashboard-indicators/

Over the Air Update Indicators

Over The Air Update

Over the air update indicatorThis is an Over the Air (OTA) Update Available Indicator symbol. It appears in the shape of a cloud with an exclamation point inside it in black and white. Depending on the manufacturer, this may appear in the information display or on the large infotainment screen in the center of the dashboard. The cloud symbol is from Polestar.

  • Before moving on, is this truly your symbol??
  • If not, you can return to our main Picture Symbols page and scan again!

The indicator means that an update has been downloaded and is ready to be installed. The over the air concept is available only from manufacturers who have adopted the technology. At the time of this post, they are few and far between.

Software update available indicatorSoftware update cancelled indicatorSoftware update successful indicatorThis is a set of over the air update indicators from Lincoln. The first, with the bell, indicates that an update is ready to be installed. The second, with an exclamation point notes that the update failed or was stopped. The last one, with the check mark says that the update was successful.

These symbols will be seen on the infotainment center screen.

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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/2021/11/over-the-air-update-indicator/