You get into your car and hear a beep from the dashboard and a hieroglyphic icon appears. Your car is trying to tell you it needs help, but what is it saying? Is this something that needs to be fixed immediately, or is this something that can be addressed during a service visit?
The Adirondack Auto service team is here to help you learn more about the dashboard warning lights on your vehicle and discover how these dashboard indicators and symbols play an important role in keeping you informed behind the wheel.
Red Lights: Emergency
Red warning lights tell you that there is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately, like an overheating engine. It may also signify that there is a safety issue present, like a seatbelt reminder.
Yellow Lights: Warnings
Yellow warning lights tell you that there is a component that needs servicing or repair, like a low tire pressure warning. You can continue to drive, but make sure to bring your car in for service.
Green Lights: Active
Green lights indicate that a system is active and operating, like headlights or drive mode.
Dashboard Warning Icons & What They Mean
Air Bag Warning Light
This light turns on with a single chime when a fault with the air bag is detected.
Battery Warning Light
Your 12-volt battery is not charging properly. You should stop and get this checked immediately.
Brake Warning Light
On some vehicles, this indicates the parking brake is applied. If it remains on and no parking brake is applied, it indicates brake system malfunction or low brake fluid.
Brake Warning Light (International)
On some vehicles, this indicates the parking brake is applied. If it remains on and no parking brake is applied, it indicates brake system malfunction or low brake fluid.
Engine Temperature
Engine coolant temperature is too high. Overheated engine condition. If this light turns on while driving, safely pull over and stop the vehicle.
Low Charge (EV)
This light indicates a low state of charge for the high-voltage battery on an electric vehicle.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
Low engine oil pressure detected. If this light turns on while driving, safely pull over and stop the vehicle.
Oil Temperature Warning Light
Engine oil temperature is high. If the light turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible.
Plug Status
Plug status fault detected. Accompanied by message to indicate type of fault.
Seatbelt Reminder
Driver or front passenger seat belt is unbuckled. This light is a safety reminder and will remain on until the seat belt is fastened.
Service Electric Vehicle
Service electrical system. This light is often accompanied by a message to provide more details about the fault.
Transmission Temperature Warning Light
This indicates high transmission fluid temperature, which may occur with strenuous use such as towing.
Turtle Mode
This light signals that vehicle acceleration is limited due to a reduction in engine or electric motor performance.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
If this light remains on while driving, the anti-lock portion of the brake system is not functioning. Service is required.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Commonly known as the "Check Engine" light, this is part of your Onboard Diagnostic System. It monitors engine and automatic transmission systems for faults.
Tire Pressure Measuring System (TPMS)
This light indicates that one or more of your tires are underinflated. You should check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended PSI.
Whether you're driving a brand-new Ram truck or an older model, a lit-up Ram Dashboard Light can be alarming. From a blinking RAM engine light to a flashing Ram Tire Light, each icon is a crucial message from your vehicle's onboard computer. Knowing the difference between these lights can save you a lot of time and money on potential repairs.
For instance, a solid Ram Oil Light is a serious warning that you should pull over immediately to prevent engine damage. In contrast, a low tire pressure indicator is a less urgent warning from your vehicle’s Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). No matter the warning, it's always best to have a professional diagnose the issue.
At Adirondack Auto, we specialize in servicing Ram vehicles. Our certified technicians can quickly identify the cause of any Ram Dashboard Light and get you back on the road safely. Don’t ignore a warning sign—schedule your service appointment today!
