Tag: warning lights

Honda Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights

Honda Symbols

So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.

The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by Honda. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.

How They Are Presented

They are roughly ordered by importance, which tends to be by color (red, amber, yellow, orange, green, blue, gray). There are nearly 100 of them so search carefully!

Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!

Serious trouble or fault indicators
Charging System Trouble Indicator SymbolCharge system trouble indicator -- click for more
Brake Trouble IndicatorBrake or parking brake indicators -- click for moreBrake Trouble Indicator Canada
electric park brake trouble indicatorElectric park brake malfunction indicators -- click for moreElectric parking brake fault
Depress Brake PedalBrake press indicator -- click for more
Brake System IndicatorElectronically controlled brake system -- click for more
Oil Trouble Indicator SymbolOil warning light -- click for more
Temperature Warning Light SymbolEngine temperature indicators -- click for moreTemperature Indicator Cold
SRS Air Bag Indicator SymbolAir bag warning indicator -- click for more
Common and routine indicators
Seat Belt Reminder SymbolSeat belt reminder -- click for more
Immobilizer dotSecurity indicators, if blinking -- click for moreImmobilizer System Indicator
Steering Trouble IndicatorElectric power steering fault indicator -- click for more
Door Ajar Warning IndicatorDoor ajar indicator -- click for more
Low Fuel IndicatorLow fuel indicators -- click for moreHydrogen low indicator
Windshield Washer Fluid Low IndicatorLow washer fluid indicator -- click for more
Trouble or fault indicators
Message Indicator SymbolMessage indicator -- click for more
Check engine lightCheck engine light -- click for more
Drivetrain Trouble IndicatorPower train fault indicators -- click for moreTransmission system indicator
Keyless system malfunctionKeyless start fault indicator -- click for more
Service ReminderService reminder indicator -- click for more
Stacility controlStability control indicator -- click for more
Slip Control Off IndicatorStability control off indicator -- click for more
Traction Control System Warning LightTraction control off indicator -- click for more
Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolTire pressure monitor indicators -- click for moreTPMS Malfunction Indicator
ABS Trouble Indicator CanadaAnti-lock brake system fault indicator -- click for more
Integrated Motor AssistIntegrated motor assist fault indicator -- click for more
All Wheel Drive Trouble IndicatorAll wheel drive trouble indicator -- click for more
eAWD IndicatorElectric all wheel drive indicators -- click for moreeAWD indicator
Power system indicatorPower system fault indicator -- click for more
Electric and hybrid vehicle indicators
Ready Mode IndicatorHybrid ready indicators -- click for moreReady + indicator
EV System IndicatorEV system warning -- click for more
Power Limitation IndicatorPower limitation indicators -- click for morePower limited indicator
EV on indicatorEV on indicator -- click for more
EV mode indicatorEV operation indicator -- click for more
HV on indicatorHybrid operation indicator -- click for more
Auto charge modeHybrid operation indicators -- click for moreEV modeCharge mode
Charge indicatorEV charge indicator -- click for more
Charge cord connectedCharge cable connected -- click for more
One pedal driving indicatorOne pedal driving indicator -- click for more
Deceleration stage indicatorDeceleration paddle selector indicator -- click for more
Hydrogen leak indicatorHydrogen leak warning indicator -- click for more
Driver assist systems indicators
Safety system support indicatorDriver assist system status indicators -- click for morePark assist systemSafety support indicator green
Forward collision warningCollision mitigation fault indicator -- click for more
Collision warning indicatorForward alert indicators -- click for moreCollision warning indicator
Lane Departure WarningLane keeping indicators -- click for moreLKAS Amber
Hands on lane keeping indicatorMore lane keeping indicators -- click for moreLane departure indicator
Blind Spot IndicatorBlind spot warning indicator -- click for more
Hold Operation IndicatorAuto brake hold indicators -- click for moreBrake hold indicator
Auto Hold IndicatorMore auto brake hold indicators -- click for moreAuto brake indicator
Start stop indicatorAuto start/stop indicators -- click for moreAuto Stop indicator
Start stop system off indicatorMore auto start/stop indicators -- click for morestart stop indicator
Pedestrian detected indicatorPedestrian detected indicator -- click for more
ACC indicatorAdaptive cruise control trouble or on indicators -- click for moreAdaptive Cruise Control Indicator
Distance setting indicatorCruise control follow distance set -- click for more
Special feature and accessory indicators
Another Cruise Control IndicatorCruise control indicators -- click for moreCruise Control Main Indicator
Normal mode indicatorDrive mode indicators -- click for moreIndividual mode indicator
Sport mode indicatorMore drive mode indicators -- click for moreSport mode indicator
Sand mode indicator4 wheel drive drive modes -- click for moreSnow mode indicatorMud mode indicator
Sport mode indicatorSport mode indicator (in green) -- click for more
Economy Mode IndicatorEconomy mode indicators -- click for moreEconomy mode on indicator
Up Shift IndicatorEfficient shift indicators -- click for more Upshift indicatorDownshift indicator
Lighting indicators
Bed lights on indicatorBed lights on indicator -- click for more
High beam assistantAutomatic high beam indicator -- click for more
Fog Lamp Indicator SymbolFog lamps on indicator -- click for more
Tail Light Indicator CanadaPark lamps on indicator -- click for more
Turn Signal IndicatorTurn signal indicator -- click for more
High Beam On IndicatorHigh beam indicator -- click for more

Models examined include Accord, Civic, Clarity, Crosstour, CR-V, Element, Fit, HR-V, Insight, Odyssey, Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline.

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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/2019/06/warning-lights-and-symbols-seen-in-honda-vehicles/

Buick Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights

Buick Symbols

So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.

The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by Buick. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.

How They Are Presented

They are roughly ordered by importance, which tends to be by color (red, amber, yellow, orange, green, blue, gray). There are over 50 of them, so search carefully!

Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!

Serious trouble or fault indicators
Charging System Trouble Indicator SymbolCharge system trouble indicator -- click for more
Brake Trouble IndicatorBrake trouble indicators -- click for moreBrake Trouble Indicator Canada
Oil Trouble Indicator SymbolOil warning light -- click for more
Temperature Warning Light SymbolEngine temperature indicator -- click for more
SRS Air Bag Indicator SymbolAir bag warning indicator -- click for more
Security Lock IndicatorSecurity indicator -- click for more
Common and routine indicators
Seat Belt Reminder SymbolSeat belt reminders -- click for morePassenger seat belt reminder
Door Ajar Warning IndicatorDoor ajar indicators -- click for moreDoor open warning
Pedestrian detected indicatorPedestrian ahead indicator -- click for more
Press brake indicator -- click for more
Low Fuel IndicatorLow fuel indicator -- click for more
Windshield Washer Fluid Low IndicatorLow washer fluid indicator -- click for more
Trouble indicators
Check engine lightCheck engine light -- click for more
Parking Brake Engaged IndicatorElectric park brake and trouble indicators -- click for morePARK symbol
Service Electric Parking BrakeMore electric park brake and trouble indicators -- click for moreService electric park brake
Stacility controlStability control indicator -- click for more
Slip Control Off IndicatorStability control off indicator -- click for more
Traction Control System Warning LightTraction control off indicator -- click for more
Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolTire pressure monitor indicator -- click for more
ABS Trouble Indicator CanadaAnti-lock brake system fault indicator -- click for more
Driver assist system indicators
Super Cruise indicatorSuper cruise status indicator -- click for more
Lane Departure WarningLane keeping indicators -- click for moreLane keeping assistLane Departure Indicator
Active cruise controlFollowing gap indicator -- click for more
Forward collision warningAuto braking disabled -- click for more
Vehicle detected indicatorVehicle ahead indicators -- click for moreForward Alert Indicator
Attention alertDriver alert indicator -- click for more
Pedestrian detected indicatorPedestrian alert indicator -- click for more
Active Cruise Control SymbolAdaptive cruise control indicator -- click for more
Special feature and accessory indicators
Cruise Control Indicator SymbolCruise control indicator -- click for more
Auto start stop symbolAuto start stop indicator -- click for more
Grade assist 2Hill descent control indicator -- click for more
AWD indicatorAll wheel drive indicators -- click for more2 wheel drive
Sport modeSport mode indicators -- click for moreSport mode indicator
Off road mode indicatorOff road mode indicator -- click for more
Frost Warning IndicatorSnow mode indicators -- click for moreSnow and ice mode
Haul (towing) IndicatorTow mode indicator -- click for more
Lighting indicators
Headlamp outHeadlamp out indicator -- click for more
Cornering Headlamps Malfunction IndicatorAdaptive front lighting indicator -- click for more
High beam assistantAutomatic high beam indicator -- click for more
Tail Light Indicator CanadaPark lamps on indicator -- click for more
Turn Signal IndicatorTurn signal indicator -- click for more
High Beam On IndicatorHigh beam indicator -- click for more

Models examined include Cascadia, Enclave, Encore, Envision, Envista, Lacrosse, Regal, and Verano.

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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/2019/06/warning-lights-and-symbols-seen-in-buick-vehicles/

Chevrolet Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights

Chevrolet logoChevrolet Dashboard Symbols

So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.

The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by Chevrolet. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.

How They Are Presented

They are ordered primarily by color and roughly by importance. First up are red, followed by  yellow/amber/orange symbols (depending on how you see the color!), then blue and green symbols and finally white and gray scale symbols.. There are nearly 100 of them so search carefully!

Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!

Red indicators
Charging System Trouble Indicator SymbolCharge system trouble indicator -- click for more
Brake Trouble IndicatorBrake trouble indicators -- click for moreBrake Trouble Indicator Canada
Oil Trouble Indicator SymbolOil warning light -- click for more
Temperature Warning Light SymbolEngine temperature indicator -- click for more
SRS Air Bag Indicator SymbolAir bag warning indicator -- click for more
Security Lock IndicatorSecurity indicator -- click for more
Steering Trouble IndicatorElectronic power steering trouble indicator -- click for more
Parking Brake Engaged IndicatorElectric park brake and trouble indicators -- click for morePark brake applied
Service Electric Parking BrakeMore electric park brake and trouble indicators -- click for morePARK symbol
Traction battery warningEV battery fault -- click for more
Charge cord connectedCharging indicator -- click for more
Night Vision Pedestrian WarningPedestrian warning indicators -- click for morePedestrian detected indicator
Seat Belt Reminder SymbolSeat belt reminder -- click for more
Rear seat belts indicatorRear seat belt warning indicator -- click for more
Door Ajar Warning IndicatorDoor ajar indicator -- click for more
Yellow/amber/orange indicators
Owners Manual IndicatorCheck owner's manual indicator -- click for more
Check engine lightCheck engine light -- click for more
Reduced Engine Power LightReduced engine power indicator -- click for more
Electronic Power ControlElectronic power control trouble indicator -- click for more
Stacility controlStability control indicator -- click for more
Slip Control Off IndicatorStability control off indicator -- click for more
Traction Control System Warning LightTraction control indicator -- click for more
Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolTire pressure monitor indicator -- click for more
ABS Trouble Indicator CanadaAnti-lock brake system fault indicator -- click for more
Power Limitation IndicatorPower limitation indicators -- click for morePower limited indicator
EV Battery Charge stateCharge status indicator -- click for more
EV System IndicatorEV service necessary -- click for more
Watts mode indicatorEV mode indicator -- click for more
Service reminder indicatorService reminder indicator -- click for more
Front lift indicatorFront lift system indicator -- click for more
Forward collision warningCollision alert indicator -- click for more
Vehicle detected indicatorForward alert indicator -- click for more
Lane Departure WarningLane keeping indicators -- click for moreLane Departure Indicator
Attention alertAttention assist indicator -- click for more
Park Assist SymbolPark assist indicator -- click for more
Distance setting indicatorAdaptive cruise control indicators -- click for more
P-AWS IndicatorAll wheel steering indicators -- click for moreAll wheel steer off
All Wheel Drive Disabled4-wheel drive trouble indicator -- click for more
Haul (towing) IndicatorTow mode indicator -- click for more
Headlamp outHeadlamp out indicator -- click for more
Frost Warning IndicatorSnow mode indicator -- click for more
Sport mode indicatorSport mode indicator -- click for more
Suspension setting indicatorSuspension settings and fault indicators -- click for moreSuspension mode indicator
Air suspension downMore suspension settings and fault indicators -- click for moreAir suspension upSuspension service mode
Use brake indicatorUse brake pedal indicator -- click for more
Low Fuel IndicatorLow fuel indicator -- click for more
Windshield Washer Fluid Low IndicatorLow washer fluid indicator -- click for more
Green and blue indicators
Forward Alert IndicatorForward alert indicator -- click for more
Active Cruise Control SymbolAdaptive cruise control indicators -- click for moreCurve speed adapt
Cruise Control Indicator SymbolCruise control indicator -- click for more
Up Shift IndicatorUp shift indicator -- click for more
Start stop indicatorAuto start stop indicator -- click for more
Hybrid Ready IndicatorHybrid and EV ready indicators -- click for moreReady Mode Indicator
Ready indicator More hybrid and EV ready indicators -- click for moreReady indicator
Shift mode indicatorShift mode indicator -- click for more
Grade assist 2Hill descent and terrain mode indicators -- click for moreTerrain Selector Symbol
4 wheel drive auto4-wheel drive indicators (5) -- click for more4-wheel drive low
AWD indicatorAll wheel drive status indicators -- click for more2 wheel drive
High beam assistantAutomatic high beam indicator -- click for more
Tail Light Indicator CanadaPark lamps on indicator -- click for more
Fog Lamp Indicator SymbolFog lamp on indicator -- click for more
Turn Signal IndicatorTurn signal indicator -- click for more
High Beam On IndicatorHigh beam indicator -- click for more
White and gray scale indicators
Super cruise indicatorSuper cruise status indicators -- click for moreSuper Cruise indicator
Mountain modeEV mode indicators -- click for moreHold mode
Regeneration iconRegenerative mode indicator -- click for more
One pedal driving indicatorOne pedal driving indicator -- click for more
Lane keeping assistLane keeping indicator -- click for more
Adaptive cruise control indicatorAdaptive cruise control indicator -- click for more
Speed limiter indicaterSpeed limiter indicator -- click for more
Sway control indicatorTow mode and control indicators -- click for moreTow mode indicator
Sport mode lightSport mode indicators -- click for more
My mode lightDrive mode indicators -- click for moreZ mode indicator
Track mode indicatorTrack and tour mode indicators -- click for moreTour mode indicator
Off road indicatorOff road and weather mode indicators -- click for moreWeather mode indicator

Models examined include Blazer, Bolt, Bolt EUV, Camaro, Colorado, Corvette, Cruze, Equinox, Impala, Malibu, Silverado 1500, Sonic, Spark, Suburban, Tahoe, Trailblazer, Traverse, Trax, and Volt.

——————————————————————-

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/2019/06/warning-lights-and-symbols-seen-in-chevrolet-vehicles/

Ford Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights

Ford Symbols

So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.

The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by Ford. Click the link to the right of each one learn more.

How They Are Presented

They are roughly ordered by importance, which tends to be by color (red, amber, yellow, orange, green, blue, gray). There are nearly 90 of them, so search carefully!

Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!

Serious trouble or fault indicators
Charging System Trouble Indicator SymbolCharge system trouble indicator -- click for more
Brake Trouble IndicatorBrake trouble indicators -- click for moreBrake Trouble Indicator Canada
Oil Trouble Indicator SymbolOil warning light -- click for more
Temperature Warning Light SymbolEngine temperature indicator -- click for more
SRS Air Bag Indicator SymbolAir bag warning indicator -- click for more
Powertrain Trouble IndicatorPowertrain trouble indicator -- click for more
Steering Trouble IndicatorElectronic power steering trouble indicator -- click for more
Common and routine indicators
Seat Belt Reminder SymbolSeat belt reminder -- click for more
Rear seat belt reminderRear seat seat belt reminder -- click for more
Door Ajar Warning IndicatorDoor ajar indicator -- click for more
Hood ajar indicatorHood ajar indicator -- click for more
Trank ajar indicatorTrunk ajar indicator -- click for more
Low Fuel IndicatorLow fuel indicator -- click for more
Windshield Washer Fluid Low IndicatorLow washer fluid indicator -- click for more
Frost warningLow outside temperature warning -- click for more
Trouble or fault indicators
Master Warning SymbolMaster warning light -- click for more
Check engine lightService engine soon indicator -- click for more
Electronic Power ControlElectronic device failure indicator -- click for more
Stacility controlStability control indicator -- click for more
Slip Control Off IndicatorStability control off indicator -- click for more
Tire Pressure Monitor SymbolTire pressure monitor indicator -- click for more
ABS Trouble Indicator CanadaAnti-lock brake system fault indicator -- click for more
Electric Park Brake IndicatorElectric park brake trouble indicator -- click for more
Driver assist systems indicators
Blind Spot IndicatorBlind spot monitor indicators -- click for moreBlind spot monitor off
Cross traffic alert indicatorCross traffic alert indicator -- click for more
Lane keeping indicatorLane keeping system indicators -- click for moreLane Departure Warning
Auto Hold IndicatorAutomatic brake hold indicators -- click for moreBrake hold off
Brake hold availableMore automatic brake hold indicators -- click for moreAuto hold unavailable
Start stop indicatorStart stop system indicators -- click for moreStart stop fault indicator
Active Cruise Control SymbolAdaptive cruise control -- click for more
Special feature and accessory indicators
Cruise Control Indicator SymbolCruise control indicator -- click for more
Heads up display indicatorHeads up display indicator -- click for more
Haul (towing) IndicatorTow mode indicators -- click for moreHaul indicator
Launch control indicatorLaunch control indicator -- click for more
Performance shift indicatorShift indicators -- click for moreUp shift indicatorDown shift indicator
Over speed warningOver speed indicator -- click for more
Grade Assist IndicatorGrade and hill start assist indicators -- click for moreHill start assist
Grade assist 2More grade and hill start assist indicators -- click for moreAll Terrain Progress Control
4 Automatic4 wheel drive mode indicators -- click for more4-wheel Drive Hi Indicator4_wheel_drive_low_indicator
Electronic Rear Differential LockDifferential lock indicators -- click for more4wd lock indicatorDifferential locks indicator3
Mud ruts mode indicatorSpecial 4 wheel drive mode indicators -- click for moreSlippery mode indicator
Fuel operated heatFuel operated heater -- click for more
Electric or hybrid vehicle indicators
Hybrid Ready IndicatorHybrid or EV ready indicator -- click for moreReady Mode Indicator
High voltage batteryHigh voltage battery indicators -- click for moreHigh voltage batteryHigh voltage battery
EV now indicatorMore high voltage battery indicators -- click for moreEV charge indicatorEV later indicator
Battery charging symbolHybrid battery charging indicator -- click for more
Plug in IndicatorHybrid charging indicator -- click for more
EV mode onEV mode indicators -- click for moreEV mode later
Eco Operation Indicator SymbolEconomy mode operation indicators -- click for moreEco mode
Battery assist 1Mild hybrid system operation indicators -- click for moreBattery assist 2Battery assist 3
Diesel vehicle indicators
Glow Plug Indicator SymbolGlow plug preheat indicator -- click for more
Water in Fuel Indicator 2Water in fuel indicator -- click for more
Diesel Exhaust FilterDiesel exhaust fluid level warning -- click for more
Diesel exhaust brake indicatorDiesel exhaust brake indicators -- click for moreDiesel exhaust brake off indicatorAutomatic diesel exhaust brake indicator
Lighting indicators
High beam assistantAutomatic high beam indicator -- click for more
Headlamp outHeadlamp out indicator -- click for more
Tail Light Indicator CanadaPark lamps on indicator -- click for more
Fog Lamp Indicator SymbolFog lamp indicator -- click for more
Turn Signal IndicatorTurn signal indicator -- click for more
High Beam On IndicatorHigh beam indicator -- click for more

Models examined include EcoSport, Edge, Escape, Expedition, Explorer, F-150, F-250, Fiesta, GT, Fusion, Mustang, Mustang Mach E, Ranger, Taurus, and Transit.

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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/2019/06/warning-lights-and-symbols-seen-in-ford-vehicles/

Dangers Inherent to Keyless or Push-button Start Cars

Keyless Start Dangers

The New York Times recently (August 2018) published an article about a problem inherent with keyless start cars. Specifically the phenomenon of drivers pulling into their garages and, lacking the need to remove a key from the ignition switch, walking away with the vehicle still running. The home fills with odorless carbon monoxide, injuring or killing the occupants.

New Mercedes key fobThe problem is real and in this article we will echo the calls for action, expand on the danger, add some comments on potential solutions, and finally add our primary concerns to the mix.

The article notes that since 2006 there have been more than two dozen carbon monoxide deaths attributed to keyless start cars left running in garages. And many more have been injured with some left brain damaged. Its an excellent read and goes into great depth.

Now if your first thought is why would someone walk away from a running car, there are two answers. First, even gasoline powered cars today are remarkably quiet, particularly at idle. Second, since most of these vehicles will lock themselves if left unattended, some drivers expect that an unattended car cars will shut itself off as well. Some will, but it cannot be assumed.

A Danger Inside

There is an additional danger in hybrid cars. These may be operating on battery power when brought inside, and thus be dead quiet. However, if the ignition is left on, the internal combustion engine will eventually fire up to recharge the battery.

There is only one viable solution. Each and every keyless start vehicle on the road must shut itself down if left unattended or if no action is taken after an agreed upon time. This will mean lots of recalls, but it is the only sure fire solution.

Key Warning IndicatorThe Times article talks about the Society of Automotive Engineers, which called for among other things adding a series of beeps to alert the driver that a car when the key fob is removed. But I will add a personal anecdote that will illustrate why this idea should be shut down. The Times piece also bemoans the lack of regulations here, which we’ll touch on in a moment.

And on to the anecdote. Shortly after buying a pre-owned car some years ago, I walked away leaving the headlights lights on. After a 10 hour day, I needed a jump start. Testing this sometime later proved that the car beeped itself silly when the door was open while the lights were still on.

There are beeps and whistles and lights in todays vehicles for everything under the sun, and for the most part, they simply aren’t heard anymore. There’s simply no guarantee that sound will get a driver’s attention.

The same engineer’s group also recommends having vehicles shut themselves down, and the discussion should simply end there. The article also noted that engineers with Toyota wanted more than audible warnings, but were rebuffed by the company. Dollars and cents are always an issue no matter how much they shouldn’t be.

Hidden Keyholes

One of our primary concerns here at DashboardSymbols.com is drivers left stranded by key fobs that have gone dead. I have sat with drivers who were stunned when I pulled a mechanical key from their fobs. We have spoken with others who knew of the key and thought it was only for the glove box.

VW /Audi Keyhole CoverAnd you simply haven’t lived until you’ve tried to talk someone through the process of prying off a piece of their car to unlock it over the phone. A dozen major auto manufacturers are now responsible for this useless bit of aggravation.

And of course, the instructions for getting inside are locked inside the car!

Its relatively easy to ascertain that a car was left running causing a carbon monoxide death. But drivers trying to work put how to get in and start their cars if their key fobs have died could very well be in very vulnerable circumstances — dark parking garages, rainy parking lots, etc. If one them is set upon, will it even be possible to conclude that they were vulnerable because their keys had died. Will first responders make the connection?

So, should any and all of this be regulated? Likely yes. But forget that. These are safety issues pure and simple, and to all auto manufacturers, it is in your own best interest to keep your drivers safe! How is this even a question?

Manufacturers, make sure your keyless start cars will shut themselves down if left unattended. All of them. And give your drivers an app with at least instructions on how to get in and start the car or better yet an app that can unlock and start the car for them. Keep your drivers safe.

You want a customer for life right? How about helping to make sure its a good long life.

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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/2018/08/a-danger-inherent-to-keyless-or-push-button-start-cars/

More Electronics Makes for More Useless Symbols

More Useless Symbols

We want to dive a little deeper into what is one of our main concerns here at DashboardSymbols.com, and that is the continued proliferation of symbols appearing on instrument panels in vehicles from across the industry. And specifically with those associated with electronic systems.

We now host nearly 350 image and text symbols on the website, and estimate, rather conservatively, that 25% of them are directly connected to electronically controlled systems.

Narrowing this down, we are ignoring the 15 odd symbols we have that belong exclusively to electric and hybrid cars. We’re also staying away from a dozen or so indicators related to lighting systems. Most of this last group have been around for a while.

Smart Cruise Control Radar Warning IndicatorWhat we want to focus on are primarily systems related to driver assist functions as well as those that lean towards drive by wire. This last group covers systems like braking and steering that are now electronic or moving in that direction.

The warning light system got its start in an era when cars were essentially mechanical devices, and three systems required monitoring. By the driver! Oil or oil pressure, temperature and battery. These all had gauges, gauges that have now pretty much disappeared.

Lights Ignored

Now all of us are guilty of getting comfortable behind the wheel and ignoring the dashboard or more properly the instrument panel, and so, warning, or in the ultimate act of disrespect, idiot lights were developed to get a driver’s attention.

At that time, if a light came on, there was a plan of action — add some oil to the crankcase, add some water or antifreeze to the radiator, even add some water to the battery.

Electric Park Brake IndicatorIn todays world, the lights are essentially meaningless. What does a driver do if the Electronically Controlled Brake System symbol comes on? Or the symbol for Electric Park Brake? They are both fault indicators, but there is no fluid to top off of or reset switch to hit.

Electronically Controlled Brake WarningAlthough in point of fact, sometimes these problems can actually resolved by restarting the car.

There’s lots more of these that frankly have no user friendly solutions, just repair shop solutions. And we’ve come to believe that the warning light system has become essentially outdated and useless. And imagine the distraction these lights can cause in an era where driving distraction is all the rage. This, somehow, has slipped through the cracks.

We’ve advocated for years that vehicles to be given the capability to talk to their drivers and we’ll do it again now. In fact, our Talking Dashboards YouTube series is a tongue-in-cheek nod to the idea. There is simply no reason why a vehicle cannot talk a driver though one of these problems, right down to the problem code, if that’s what the driver requests. Being told whether or not the car is drivable and for how long at minimum would be extremely useful.

The computing power exists. Most new cars can be asked to find the nearest restaurant and take a vehicle straight to it or even schedule a service. From where we stand, a new vehicle can damn sure also provide useful information on a fault it has encountered in itself.

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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/2018/08/more-electronics-makes-for-more-useless-symbols/

Too Many Warning Lights Can Only Lead to Driver Overload

Driver Overload

We had the opportunity recently to browse through the owner’s manual of a high-end European SUV. As is our duty, we scanned the segment listing the various warning lights and indicators that may reside on the car’s instrument panel. We were frankly floored.

For many years an Asian model SUV held the record (as recorded only by us) for the most lights available on an instrument panel at 43. This includes everything from the turn signals to axle locks.

100 Symbols??

With our latest model entry, we stopped counting at 100. One hundred!

Adaptive cruise control and curve controlIf this were a joke no one would believe it. This number includes the fact that multiple indicators can appear in multiple colors and combinations depending on circumstance. That said, the weight of information to be distilled at any given time by a driver is simply beyond comprehension. Should he or she be driving or staring at the latest change?

Oblect Detected IndicatorThe majority of the indicators are associated with the growing list of available driver assist systems – truly ironic titling under the circumstances. The need for assistance feeds on itself.

Roll Away Without Warning!

We then came across an exchange between an editor from the St. Lawrence News and a reader discussing a roll away issue in a newer model push button start car. That story itself is worth a click over.

The reader wonders why there isn’t a warning indicator or buzzer to note that his vehicle was not in park when he walked away with the car shut off. In the end, editor Brian Turner notes “But in the big picture how reliant are we becoming on warning systems for basic vehicle operations? It’s almost approaching the ‘caution-hot’ labels on disposable coffee cups. There is concern among industry analysts and observers that we may be approaching warning-chime overload with all the things in our vehicles that go ding. The fears are that this will lead to drivers ignoring certain warnings and that can’t lead to anything good.”

Count us among those who are concerned.

Seriously, the advances being made in voice technology, why couldn’t the car simply speak the words “Park is not Engaged”? We are numb to the constant buzzers and lights. Ultimately, they all sound a look alike. Some plain language is just plain needed.

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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/2017/06/too-many-warning-lights-can-only-indicate-driver-overload/