A guide to common dashboard symbols

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a modern motor or a much-loved classic, the dashboard is your car’s way of talking to you. Those little lights and symbols may look simple, but each one carries an important message - from a gentle reminder that your headlights are on to a serious warning about engine health. For us to then be able to understand what they actually mean isn’t just useful, it’s essential for safe (and stress-free) driving. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most common dashboard symbols, explain their purpose, and highlight what action you should take when they appear.

Dashboard lights use colour to signal how urgent or important an issue is, and understanding them can make all the difference to preventing you from worrying! When you first switch on the ignition, it’s normal for all the lights to illuminate briefly - you need then only be concerned if one (or more) stays on and is red or yellow. A red light means immediate action is required and you should stop to address the problem straight away. An amber or yellow light warns that something needs checking as soon as possible, while a green light simply confirms that a system is working correctly and no action is needed.

Engine malfunction

This shows there is a problem with the engine management, or with the electronics. If the engine malfunction symbol is flashing, it may indicate a number of different issues such as an engine misfire. Check the coolant and engine oil levels and then get a diagnostics check done as soon as you can.

Electronics malfunction

This shouldn’t be ignored, as it indicates an issue with the car’s electronics and the car could just stop in some cases.

Oil warning light

Usually depicted as an old-fashioned oil can, this light indicates that your engine oil level is too low or too high. In a classic car, this can spell trouble very quickly. If this symbol comes on while you’re driving, pull over and switch off the engine immediately to avoid serious damage. Always check your oil level with the dipstick before restarting.

Battery/charging warning light

Often shown as a small battery icon, this symbol signals that your charging system isn’t working properly. In a classic car, it often means the alternator isn’t feeding power back into the battery. You’ll be running on stored charge only, so it’s best to head home or to a garage before the battery runs flat.

Temperature warning light

A thermometer symbol or simply the word ‘TEMP' may appear to show that the engine is running too hot. In many classics, overheating is a common concern, especially in warm weather or heavy traffic. If this light comes on, stop the car, let the engine cool, and check your coolant level and radiator hoses.

Powertrain malfunction

This indicates a problem whereby the engine is running, albeit with less power. You’ll likely need to head to the garage for this one. Try not to accelerate or brake too hard when this light comes on.

Brake system warning light/handbrake on

Some classic dashboards feature a red exclamation mark or the word ‘BRAKE’ to indicate problems. This could be as simple as the handbrake being left on, but it can also signal a fault in the braking system, such as low fluid. Given the importance of brakes in older vehicles, never ignore this warning.

Parking brake engaged

This (P) shows that the handbrake on your automatic car is engaged. This is usually a button that you can press, but is also occasionally a hand-activated cable brake in older vehicles. This should always be engaged when the car is parked. If it won’t disengage, then you are likely to need a tow to get to a garage.

Main beam indicator

Usually a blue light shaped like a headlamp with beams extending outwards, this one is straightforward: it tells you that your full beam headlights are on. On narrow country lanes, it’s essential for visibility - but remember to dip them for oncoming traffic.

Indicator warning light

Classic cars often feature a small green arrow, or even a single green lamp, that flashes in time with the indicators. On some older models, the sound of the relay clicking may be your only clue. If the light flashes unusually fast, it usually means a bulb has blown.

Washer fluid low

If this comes on, you'll need to top up for windscreen washer fluid.

Choke warning (on some cars)

This symbol is often a diagonal line with a dot in the middle. In some older cars, a choke symbol may appear to remind you that the choke is engaged. Leaving it out for too long once the engine has warmed up can waste fuel and cause the engine to run poorly.

Glow plug indicator (diesels)

On classic diesel vehicles, a coil-shaped light shows that the glow plugs are warming the cylinders for cold starts. Wait for the light to go out before turning the key fully, otherwise the engine may struggle to fire. If it stays on it could indicate a fault with a glow plug or the wiring.

Have we missed any important ones? Let us know, if so! The dashboard lights on classic cars may not always be as advanced as modern systems, but they are no less important to watch out for. In fact, because older vehicles tend to lack electronic safety nets, these symbols are often your first - and only - warning that something needs attention. Learning what each light means is therefore essential to keeping your cherished classic running smoothly…