Official Warning Light Lookup
Enter vehicle details and compare common dashboard-style warning symbols without using an incomplete make list.
This page shows common dashboard-style pictograms for quick recognition. Exact symbol shape, wording, colors, and recommended action can vary by model year, trim, market, package, powertrain, and instrument cluster, so the selected manufacturer's official owner resource remains the final reference.
Vehicle-specific intervals, dashboard symbols, warning messages, capacities, and procedures can vary by year, engine, drivetrain, trim, market, package, and instrument cluster. Use the official manufacturer owner manual or owner portal before treating any website note as final.
Common dashboard pictograms are shown for recognition. Confirm the exact symbol shape, wording, and action in the official owner manual for the selected vehicle.
Amber • Diagnose Soon
Usually means the engine or emissions control system detected a fault. If the light flashes, reduce driving and seek diagnostics promptly.
Schedule a diagnostic scan and describe drivability symptoms such as shaking, power loss, or fuel smell.Red • Stop Safely
Can indicate low oil pressure or lubrication risk. Continuing to drive can damage the engine.
Stop safely, turn the engine off, check oil level only if safe, and arrange professional help.Red or Amber • Diagnose Soon
Can indicate a charging system, battery, alternator, belt, or electrical issue.
Limit unnecessary electrical load and schedule battery and charging system testing.Red • Safety Critical
Can indicate parking brake status, low brake fluid, hydraulic concern, or another brake system warning depending on the vehicle.
If the parking brake is released and the light remains on, avoid normal driving until the brake system is checked.Amber • Diagnose Soon
Usually indicates an anti-lock braking system fault. Base braking may still work, but ABS assistance may be limited.
Schedule brake/ABS diagnostics, especially before rain, highway driving, or long trips.Amber • Check Soon
Can indicate low tire pressure or a tire pressure monitoring system issue.
Check tire pressures when tires are cold and inspect for visible tire damage.Red or Blue • Stop Safely if Hot
A hot temperature warning can indicate overheating. Some vehicles also use a blue indicator when the engine is cold.
If overheating, stop safely and let the engine cool. Do not remove a hot radiator cap.Red or Amber • Safety System Review
Can indicate an issue with the supplemental restraint system, airbags, or seatbelt pretensioners.
Schedule diagnostics; the restraint system may not operate as designed during a collision.Amber • Diagnose Soon
Flashing can mean the system is actively helping with traction. A steady warning can indicate a fault or disabled system.
Check whether traction control was turned off. If steady or repeated, schedule diagnostics.Red or Amber • Stop Safely
Can indicate high transmission fluid temperature or drivetrain stress, especially during towing or heavy traffic.
Reduce load, stop safely when possible, and let the vehicle cool. Schedule inspection.Amber • Refuel Soon
Indicates fuel level is low. Exact remaining range varies by vehicle and driving conditions.
Refuel soon and avoid relying on estimated range in heavy traffic or remote areas.Red • Correct Before Driving
Indicates one or more occupants may not have a seat belt fastened, depending on the vehicle.
Fasten seat belts and check passenger-seat sensors if the warning remains.Amber • Can Be Scheduled
Indicates low windshield washer fluid on vehicles equipped with that sensor.
Refill washer fluid and inspect for leaks if the warning returns quickly.Amber • Routine Maintenance
Usually indicates scheduled maintenance is due based on mileage, time, oil life, or manufacturer logic.
Check the official maintenance schedule for your specific model and schedule service.Blue • Information
Indicates high-beam headlights are on.
Use high beams only when appropriate and dim them for oncoming traffic.Warning-light symbol shape, message text, and required action can change by vehicle. Use the official manufacturer owner manual first, then use NHTSA for recall and VIN verification.
Official free API for VIN decoding, vehicle makes, models, manufacturers, and vehicle specification data.
Open source linkOfficial API documentation for recalls, complaints, investigations, and related vehicle safety datasets.
Open source linkOfficial U.S. safety recalls, investigations, complaints, and manufacturer communications.
Open source linkOfficial VIN decoding data reported by vehicle manufacturers.
Open source linkOfficial U.S. government fuel economy and vehicle efficiency data.
Open source linkOfficial tire safety, tire rating, and tire maintenance information.
Open source link
