Dashboard Warning Lights Explained: Colors, Meanings & What to Do

Start with the color

Manufacturers use a traffic-light system. Red means a potentially serious problem or safety issue — stop as soon as it is safe. Amber or yellow means something needs attention soon. Green and blue are informational and simply tell you a system is on (headlights, cruise control, high beams).

If a light flashes rather than staying solid, treat it as more urgent. A flashing check-engine light, for example, usually indicates an active misfire that can damage the catalytic converter.

Red lights you should never ignore

Oil pressure (an oil can): the engine may not be getting lubrication. Pull over and switch off the engine, then check the oil level.

Engine temperature (a thermometer in liquid): the engine is overheating. Stop, let it cool, and never open a hot radiator cap.

Brake system (a circle with an exclamation mark or the word BRAKE): check that the parking brake is fully released; if it is, brake fluid may be low or the system may have a fault.

Charging system (a battery): the alternator may not be charging. You may only have minutes of electrical power left.

Common amber lights

Check engine: anything from a loose fuel cap to a sensor fault. A parts store or mechanic can read the stored code with an OBD-II scanner.

Tire pressure (TPMS, a horseshoe with an exclamation mark): one or more tires is significantly under-inflated. Check pressures cold against the door-jamb placard.

ABS: the anti-lock function is disabled, although normal braking usually still works.

Your owner's manual is the final word

Symbols differ between brands and model years, especially for driver-assistance and hybrid/EV systems. Your vehicle's owner's manual has a dedicated indicator section with every symbol used on your exact dashboard — look up your car on VehicleManual.com to reach the official manual.