Understanding What the Symbols on Your Car’s Dashboard Mean

The rise of advanced technology and computerized systems in vehicles have illuminated your dashboard with all kinds of symbols. It’s important that you understand these indicators that reveal the state of your car and can warn you about serious problems. Here’s a list of the more common ones and what they mean.

Engine Temperature Warning

This looks like a thermometer on some waves and reveals that your engine is overheating. Pull over to a safe space and allow the engine to cool before you pop the hood. Check the coolant level and radiator cap, and look for coolant leaks. Confirm that your fan is operating correctly.

Battery Warning

Showing a small battery, the light comes on if your battery is not charging correctly or is losing power. The problem can be a bad battery but this could also indicate that your alternator belt is broken or that you have a bad battery cable. If it is a battery problem and you do nothing, your vehicle may no longer start.

Anti-lock Brake Warning

Shown as the letters “ABS” surrounded by a circle, this warning reveals a problem with the Anti-lock Brake System that prevents your brakes from locking up in an emergency stop. The brake fluid in the system may be low, the ABS module may be malfunctioning, speed sensors may be broken, or you’ve turned off your ABS. Take your vehicle for a look right away. You don’t want to risk your ABS failing during a potential accident.

Traction Control Malfunction

This light shows up as a triangle with an exclamation point inside it, surrounded by a semi-circle with an arrow. It indicates that your Traction Control System may either have a damaged sensor or is not working. This may also light up when you have problems with the ABS, which works with traction control.

Need More Help?

If you need more information about the symbols on your dashboard or want to get any of them checked out, come to the Service Department at Gandrud Nissan in Green Bay, WI. Our factory-certified automotive technicians specialize in your brand and can diagnose and fix any issue efficiently and quickly. They rely only on manufacturer-approved parts to keep your car running like new. You can schedule your service appointment online here ! If you have any questions, please contact us today!