As cars become more complicated, so too do dashboard warning lights. The number of light-up symbols seems to grow by the year, with new warnings about inoperable forward-collision detection systems, adaptive cruise control issues, iffy electric power steering systems, and so many more. Every driver hates to see those little warning lights on their car’s dashboard, but if you understand what they mean and heed their warnings, those little lights can help keep you safe and avoid major breakdowns — and major costs — down the road. 

But if you don’t know what they all mean, you’re not alone. A survey of U.S. drivers in 2024 found about half of drivers are confused by dashboard warning lights. To make matters worse, there’s no set international standard for automotive warning lights.

Dashboard warning lights can look like cryptic symbols from some ancient civilization, but fear not: we’re here to help you decipher them. Here’s a simple guide to common dashboard warning lights every driver should know: 

Check engine light

Most drivers will see the dreaded check engine light at some point. It’s common because it can indicate so many different issues, from a minor sensor fault, to a loose gas cap, to a serious engine issue. Don’t ignore it. A quick diagnostic test by a mechanic should be able to pinpoint the problem. If the light is flashing and/or turns red, there’s likely something seriously wrong; avoid driving and get a tow to a trusted mechanic.

Battery warning light

This usually indicates either a dead battery — in which case the car won’t start — or some other problem with the battery system that prevents it from working properly. This one is serious, and should be checked out immediately by roadside assistance or a mechanic so you don’t end up stranded somewhere.

Brake warning light

The usual culprit? You forgot to release the handbrake before driving off. But if the light stays on after you’re released the handbrake, then you’ve got a serious safety issue that needs to be checked out by a professional. Avoid driving the vehicle. If the brake pedal feels too soft or presses in further than usual, it’s another surefire sign the brakes aren’t working properly.

Oil pressure warning light

Best case scenario: the engine is a little low on oil. You can confirm by checking the dipstick (if your car even has a dipstick) and, if needed, carefully adding more oil to bring it up to the proper level. If that doesn’t make the light disappear, you’ll want to get the issue checked out. Driving with low, no, or old oil in the engine is a surefire way to wreck it.

Engine temperature warning light

It looks like a thermometer dipped in water, and will light up blue or red. If it’s blue, the light is just telling you the engine is still warming up, so go easy on it (by keeping the revs low) if you can. If the light is red, it means the engine is overheating and you should pull over and turn the engine off as soon as it’s safe to do so. Overheating is one of those things that can cause serious damage, so don’t let this one go unnoticed. 

Tire pressure monitoring system light 

This is another common one that drivers will surely see at some point. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) keep an eye on your tires to make sure they’re inflated to the correct pressure. If the pressure is low, the system will warn you so you can (hopefully) just pump up the tire. If the tire is flat and/or damaged, it’ll need to be replaced.

Electronic stability/traction control warning light

This light can come on because a driver has intentionally switched off the Electronic Stability Control (ESP) or Traction Control (TC) system, or because the road is slippery, or there’s a fault with one of these systems. If it’s the latter the warning light will stay on and won’t turn off, in which case you need to get the vehicle checked out by a mechanic. 

Washer fluid warning light 

It looks like a water fountain, and it means your car’s low on windshield washer fluid. While it’s not the sort of thing you have to pull over to the side of the road to fix immediately, you should top up the washer fluid as soon as you can. It’s an easy fix you can do yourself; most gas stations sell washer fluid.

Door/trunk open

If you see a little picture of a car with a light around one of the doors or trunk, it’s because they aren’t shut properly. When it’s safe, pull over and confirm everything is closed.

Turn signal (rapid blinking)

If it’s blinking faster then usual, or if it stays illuminated, it probably means the signal’s not working. You’ll probably just need to replace the bulb. 

High beam indicator (blue)

If there’s a blue high beam light on the dash, it’s likely just there to let you know the vehicle’s high beams are switched on. Either you switched it on because you’re driving on a dark empty road, or it got switched on by accident. If it’s the latter, no worries, just switch the high beams off. 

ABS warning light

The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps drivers maintain control of a vehicle while braking hard or braking on slippery surfaces. When it’s working, the brake pedal starts to vibrate. If the ABS Warning Light is on, it likely means there’s a fault with the system. The vehicle’s brakes should still work, but you should get the ABS issue fixed as soon as possible.

And many more

Of course, there are many, many more dashboard warning lights, but those ones listed above are the most common symbols that give drivers cause for concern. Finally, it’s important to note that each vehicle is different. The meaning of warning lights might vary between makes and models. For a complete list of your vehicle’s warning lights and what they mean, be sure to check the owner’s manual.

Staying on top of warning lights, car maintenance and responding promptly to any issues can not only help prevent car insurance claims – it can help keep you safe on the road.