Scoreboard in the car with a description: decoding all icons

The modern car is a complex electronic complex, where instrument panel (or dashboard) acts as the main interface of interaction between the driver and the car. Each lighted sign on the scoreboard carries specific information about the state of the systems, from fuel levels to critical engine malfunctions. Understanding these signals is a basic skill necessary to operate any vehicle safely.

Ignoring warning signals can lead to costly repairs or even an emergency on the road. The driver must immediately read the information he is given. flight-computerand to make appropriate decisions. The color of the indicator, its blinking or constant glow - all this matters.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how the scoreboard in the car is arranged, which icons indicate an urgent problem, and which only inform about the included functions. We systematize knowledge by color gamut and functional groups so that you can easily navigate the readings of the instruments.

Color coding of indicators and their priority

All the designations on the dashboard are divided into three main groups depending on the color of the glow. This is a universal standard accepted by most automakers, although some brands may make adjustments. Understanding color differentiation allows the driver to quickly assess the degree of danger of the situation.

Red color. Signals for an emergency or critical malfunction. If a red indicator lights up on the scoreboard, it often requires the vehicle to stop immediately. Continuing to drive with a burning red signal can lead to complete failure of the unit or pose a threat to the safety of road users.

Yellow (or orange) color indicates a warning or malfunction that does not require immediate stop but needs attention soon. This could be low levels of technical fluids, sensor malfunctions or security system problems. Movement is possible, but it is recommended to contact the service as soon as possible.

Green and blue Denote the normal operation of the included systems. These are information signals that confirm that position lights, passing beams, turn signals or cruise control are active and functioning normally. Such indicators do not require the driver to take any action other than to monitor the equipment on.

⚠️ Attention: If the red light light lights up while driving, do not try to drive to your home or service. Stay in a safe place, check the oil and coolant levels, and only then make a decision about calling a tow truck.

It is also important to distinguish between the modes of operation of indicators: a constant glow usually indicates a static problem or an on state, whereas a flashing signal often requires an immediate reaction. For example, a flashing indicator Check Engine It's a ignition gap that can destroy a catalyst in a matter of kilometers.

Critical indicators of red

The red lights are a cry for help for your car. Their appearance on the scoreboard cannot be ignored. Let’s look at the most important of them, the knowledge of which is vital for every driver.

The first and most famous indicator is pressureIt is often depicted as an oilseed. Its tanning means that the pressure in the lubrication system has dropped to a critical level. The engine works "dry", which leads to instant wear of rubbing pairs and possible jamming of the engine.

Second critical signal. coolant, usually depicted as a thermometer immersed in a liquid, or an inscription HOT. Overheating of the engine threatens deformation of the cylinder head (GBC) and expensive overhaul. When this signal is lit, it is necessary to immediately stop and let the motor cool down.

The third important indicator is brake failure. It can light up in two cases: if the hand brake is lowered (or the electronic parking brake button is active) or if the level of brake fluid in the tank has fallen below normal. In the latter case, the brakes may fail completely.

• 🛑 Oil pressure: Oil – requires immediate stop of the engine.
• 🌡️ Overheating: The thermometer in waves is to stop and wait for cooling.
• 🔋 Charging the battery: A plus-and-minus battery is a problem with a generator or belt.
• 🅿️ Brakes: The exclamation point in the circle is to check the handbrake and fluid level.

Special attention should be paid to the indicator of the discharge battery. If it burns with the engine running, this means that the generator does not generate electricity, and the car is powered only by the battery. In modern machines with electric power steering and electric pumps, the power reserve until a full stop will be minimal.

Warning signals in yellow and orange

Yellow indicators are less dramatic than red ones, but they are also not worth ignoring. They report that a system is not operating normally or requires maintenance. Often, such signals light up during self-diagnosis immediately after the ignition is turned on and go out after the engine starts.

The most famous yellow badge is Check Engine ("Check the engine"). It lights up when errors in the engine control system. The reasons can be different: from poor-quality fuel and malfunction of spark plugs to problems with the catalyst or lambda probe. Diagnosis with a scanner OBD-II In this case, it is mandatory.

Also often the indicator is Stabilization systems (ESP/ESC). If it blinks while driving, the system works to help cope with skid. If it burns constantly, it means that the system is disabled by the driver or faulty. In the latter case, the car may become less stable on a slippery road.

Indicator low-fuel (refueling column) warns that less than 10-15% of the volume remains in the tank. On some modern models, an arrow may be displayed nearby, indicating which side of the car the gas tank hatch is located. This is especially useful when renting a new car.

System system ABS (Anti-lock brake system) also has its own indicator. If it catches fire while driving, it means that the ABS does not work, although the normal brakes continue to function. Wheels during emergency braking can be blocked, which increases the braking distance on a slippery surface.

Indicators of safety systems and airbags

Safety of passengers is a priority of modern standards, therefore, the indication of the status of passive and active safety systems is displayed on the scoreboard separately. These icons often have the characteristic shape of men or car silhouettes.

Indicator Airbag (airbag) usually depicts a sitting person with a circle in front of him. If after starting the engine this icon did not go out or caught fire on the way, the airbag system is faulty. In the event of an accident, they may not work or, worse, they may work spontaneously.

System system Tire Pressure Control (TPMS) It is displayed as a cross-section of the tire with an exclamation mark inside. The lighting of this signal indicates that in one or more wheels the pressure has dropped below the permissible threshold. This affects fuel consumption, rubber wear and control safety.

Indicators may also be present on the panel. seat-beltless. In some cars, they burn only for the driver’s seat, in others – for all passengers. The sound accompanies this signal to get the driver’s attention.

Name of system	Designation	Colour	Action by the driver
Airbags (SRS)	The man with the circle	Red/Orange	Checking the service
Tyre pressure.	Shina with "!	Yellow	Check the pump pressure
Exchange rate stability system	Car on the wavy line	Yellow	Slow down, check the settings
Anti-lock brakes	ABS in circle	Yellow	Brake carefully, without jerking.

Why is the pillow indicator flashing?

If the Airbag light flashes at a certain frequency, it is often an error code. For example, 3 long and 2 short flashes may indicate a circuit break of the impact sensor. Only diagnostics provide accurate decoding.

Indicators of lighting devices and electrical equipment

The light indication on the dashboard is the most diverse and often changes color depending on the mode of operation. Blue and green lights are your friends reporting external lights.

Blue indicator in the form of a headlamp with direct beams means the activation of the driving beam of the headlamps. In a city where there is lighting, it must be switched to a nearby one, so as not to blind other drivers. Green indicator with inclined rays is a passing light that should be turned on always when moving.

Indicators are separately highlighted fog-light. The front "fog" is indicated in green with a beam crossing the wavy line. The rear is in orange or red, the beam is directed to the right. The use of rear PTFs in clear weather is prohibited, as they strongly blind drivers behind the cars.

Problems with electrical equipment are also displayed on the scoreboard. Indicator lamp failure It often looks like a burnt out light bulb with a cross or exclamation mark. Modern cars with a system CAN-bus They can show which lamp is out of order through the menu of the onboard computer.

• 💡 Far beam: Blue headlight with straight lines.
• 🔦 Near light: Green headlight with sloping lines.
• 🌫️ PTF front: Green light, beam through the wave to the left.
• 🛑 PTF posterior: Orange/Red light, beam through wave to right.

In the winter season, the indicator is relevant heating. The rear glass is indicated by a rectangle with ascending wavy lines, the wind - similarly, but with drops or jets of air inside. Using windshield heating helps to quickly remove condensation and ice, improving visibility.

Service designations and service interval

Modern cars are equipped with a reminder system of maintenance. When the deadline for changing oil or planned maintenance is approaching, a corresponding message or icon appears on the scoreboard. Usually it is an image of a car with a key, oil watering or just an inscription. SERVICE.

There are two types of service intervals: fixed (At a certain time or time, and) flexible (LongLife). The flexible range is calculated electronically based on driving style, fuel quality and operating conditions. These readings are reset via the dashboard menu or diagnostic scanner.

Sometimes the indicator may light up. air filter pollution or need to be replaced spark-plug. These signals help keep the engine in optimal condition and prevent fuel overruns. Ignoring service reminders can result in a loss of warranty for the vehicle.

⚠️ Attention: Do not reset the service interval if maintenance has not been actually carried out. The car’s electronics will assume that the oil is fresh, although it has already exhausted its life, which will lead to accelerated engine wear.

Additional and specific indicators

Depending on the configuration of the car, many other icons may be present on the scoreboard. These could be indicators. cruise control, speed-limiter, start-stop And a lot more.

Indicator start-stop (usually letter) A in a circle with an arrow) informs about the status of the automatic engine jamming system at stops. If the indicator is lit yellow, the system is temporarily inactive (for example, the battery is discharged or the operating temperature of the engine is not reached).

For vehicles with hybrid or electric vehicles there is its own specific indication: battery level, recovery mode, readiness for movement (see below).READY). In electric cars, the absence of sound of the working engine is compensated by sound signals when the ignition is turned on.

There are also indicators. windscreen (fountain) door-to-door (Silhouette of the car with the doors open) and boot. They help to control the tightness and readiness of the car for the trip.

What does a flashing key mean?

Sometimes the key image flashes on the panel. This is an immobilizer indicator. If he flashes quickly when trying to start the car, then the key is not recognized or his power element has sat down.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What to do if the Check Engine is on fire, but the car is going normally?

If the indicator is constantly on and the behavior of the car has not changed, check the density of the closure of the lid of the gas tank. If everything is in order with it, you can reach the service on your own, avoiding high turns. If the indicator flashes, an immediate stop is necessary.

Why do all the yellow light bulbs burn after the battery is replaced?

When the power is turned off, the electronics reset the calibrations. It is necessary to start the engine, turn the steering wheel to the stop left and right, then drive several hundred meters. The system will calibrate itself and the errors will disappear. If not, a diagnosis will be required.

Can I drive with an ABS light?

Yes, you can, but with caution. The main braking system will work, but the anti-lock function will be disabled. This means that with a sharp braking, the wheels can be blocked, and the car will go yuz.

How to find out the exact decryption of the icon if it is not in the instructions?

Take a photo of the icon and use the search for pictures on the Internet or contact the official dealers of the brand. Often the designations may differ depending on the year of production and the market of the car.