64 Symbols on Car Dashboard: What Are They?

Published by on . Updated on 11 Sep 2023

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New Drivers Need to Pay Attention! Dashboard Symbols in Cars - What Do They Mean?

Buying a new car and not yet familiar with the various symbols, especially on the dashboard? Because there are numerous symbols and lights on the car's dashboard that indicate various statuses, initially, it might take some time to understand them.

And here are the 64 symbols on the dashboard that every driver should know!

Let's start with the color of the warning lights. In each symbol, there may be different colored lights that indicate various warnings, such as...

  • Green color indicates that it is currently in use.
  • Blue color indicates that it is currently in use and under manual control, not factory settings.
  • Yellow color indicates that you should check, meaning it's not immediately malfunctioning and can still be used, but it's advisable to bring it to a service center soon after noticing.
  • Red color indicates that you should immediately stop using it and urgently take it to a service center for inspection.

Next, let's proceed to explain all the symbols...

1. Front Fog Lights: Used when there is heavy fog or heavy rain to improve visibility.

2. Power Steering Malfunction: Indicates a problem with the power steering system, making steering more difficult than usual.

3. Rear Fog Lights: Used to activate the rear fog lights for improved visibility in the back of the vehicle.

4. Low Windshield Washer Fluid: Indicates that the windshield washer fluid level is low and should be refilled with a mixture of water and cleaning solution to reach the normal level.

5. Brake Pad Issue: Possible brake pad problem, as indicated by a loud noise during braking. Immediate inspection is recommended.

6. Cruise Control System: Typically found in newer vehicles, you'll need to set it up yourself.

7. Turn Signal Indicator: Remember to activate it before reaching the desired turning point.

8. Rain and Light Sensor Malfunction: Indicates a problem with the rain and light sensor system.

9. Air Conditioning System: Warning light might indicate issues like refrigerant leakage or internal AC system problems affecting its cooling function.

10. General Information Display: Shows vehicle information, date, time, and distance.

11. Diesel Engine Overheating Warning: Suggests the diesel engine is running too hot; consider turning off or idling the engine to cool it down.

12. Snow on Road Surface: Unlikely in Thailand (haha).

13. Starter Switch Error: Indicates an issue with the vehicle's start switch.

14. Key Not Detected: In some newer models, if the key is not inside the vehicle, you won't be able to start it.

15. Key Fob Battery Low: Indicates the key fob's battery power is low and should be replaced.

16. Following Distance Warning: Alerts you when you're too close to the vehicle in front, indicating the need to increase your following distance.

17. Clutch Fluid Pressure: If the pressure drops, it might affect the brake system. Check promptly.

18. Brake Fluid Pressure: Could impact braking performance. Should be inspected promptly.

19. Steering Wheel Lock Warning: Resolve by inserting the key again and adjusting the steering wheel.

20. High Beam Indicator: Use when driving at night and maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

21. Low Tire Pressure Warning.

22. Interior or Cabin Lights in Use.

23. Exterior Light Malfunction: E.g., Turn signals not working.

24. Brake Light Malfunction: Abnormal flashing or no flashing at all. Check promptly.

25. Engine Diesel Filter Warning: Should be checked if indicated.

26. Battery Charging System Warning.

27. Suspension System Issue Warning.

28. Maintain Safe Traffic Gap: Alerts when driving too close to the road surface.

29. Abnormal Exhaust Gas Treatment Warning.

30. Seatbelt Not Fastened Warning.

31. Parking Brake System: Prevents the vehicle from rolling when parked on a slope.

32. Low Battery Power Warning: Battery energy is running low.

33. Automatic Parking System.

34. Vehicle Condition Check Alert.

35. Automatic Headlight Adjustment System.

36.Adjust Front Headlight Level.

37. Rear Spoiler Warning Malfunction.

38. Automatic Roof Opening System.

39. Airbag Warning System Issue.

40. Handbrake Warning: Should release the handbrake.

41. Contaminated Fuel Warning: Immediate attention required due to high risk.

42. Deactivation of Airbag System.

43. Vehicle Inspection Recommended: Interior or engine might have issues.

44. Emergency Lights On.

45. Dirty Air Filter.

46. Energy Saving Mode.

47. Hill Descent Control System.

48. Coolant Overheating Warning.

49. ABS Brake System.

50. Clogged Fuel Filter: May cause difficult starting or poor acceleration.

51. Door Ajar.

52. Hood Open.

53. Low Oil Level.

54. Automatic Transmission System Malfunction.

55. Speed Limit Warning.

56. Abnormal Suspension System.

57. Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning.

58. Rear Window Defogger System Working.

59. Trunk Open.

60. Stability Control System: Prevents skidding.

61. Rain Sensor System in Use.

62. Engine Malfunction Warning.

63. Rear Window Defogger System.

64. Automatic Windshield Wipers in Operation.

For some vehicles, not all 64 symbols may be present, so there's no need to worry. Different car models might have varying functions. Just having a basic understanding of the meanings can improve your driving experience.

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