All Honda Dashboard Lights and What They Mean

Dashboard lights are meant to instruct, even warn motorists of a potential problem with their vehicles. We may be familiar with the dreaded "check engine" light, but there are many more that can appear and stay lit on the instrument panel until the problem is identified and resolved. Dashboard lights come in three categories-warning, informational, and indicator-here we cover what each light is telling you about your car, and what your next steps should be when they light up.

Types of Dashboard Lights

We recommend consulting your owner's manual for a comprehensive list of dashboard lights, including what they look like and how to respond.

Warning Lights (Urgent Attention Required)

With this category, immediate action is required, particularly if the light is flashing. Do not drive the vehicle. Pull over to a safe spot right away and call your local service center.

 
1. ABS warning light: Issue with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
 
2. Airbag warning light: Malfunction in the airbag system
 
3. Battery warning light: Charging system malfunction or failing battery
 
4. Brake system warning light: Low brake fluid, worn pads, or parking brake engaged
 
5. Check engine light (CEL): Potential engine or emissions issue
 
6. Coolant temperature warning light: Engine overheating issue
 
7. Oil pressure warning light: Low oil pressure, could lead to engine damage
 
8. Power steering warning light: Electric or hydraulic power steering failure
 
9. Transmission temperature light: Overheating transmission fluid
 
10. Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light: Low or high tire pressure detected

Informational & Maintenance Lights (Non-Emergency Alerts)

For this category, the dashboard lights are informational only.

 
1. DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) warning light: Low DEF level in diesel vehicles
 
2. Door ajar light: One or more doors are not fully closed
 
3. Fuel warning light: Low fuel level detected
 
4. Glow plug indicator (diesel engines only): Preheating is required before starting
 
5. Seat belt reminder light: Passenger or driver not wearing a seat belt
 
6. Service engine soon light: Routine maintenance or minor issue
 
7. Trunk/hood open light: Trunk or hood not properly secured
 
8. Washer fluid warning light: Low windshield washer fluid level

Indicator Lights (System Status & Driving Aids)

 
1. Adaptive cruise control indicator: System adjusting speed for traffic
 
2. Cruise control indicator: System engaged and maintaining speed
 
3. Eco mode indicator: Fuel-efficient driving mode active
 
4. EV mode / hybrid indicator (hybrid & electric vehicles only): Electric mode activated
 
5. High beam indicator: High beam headlights are activated
 
6. Lane departure warning light: Lane-keeping system alert
 
7. Parking assist light: Parking sensors detecting nearby objects
 
8. Traction control system (TCS) light: Traction control is active or disabled
 
9. Turn signal & hazard light indicators: Blinking arrows for direction or emergency flashing

How to Respond to Dashboard Lights

Red or flashing warning lights tell the driver to pull over and address the issue immediately. Calling for assistance is the best way to handle this. If the lights are solid yellow or orange, you can keep driving with caution. Schedule service as soon as possible. Lastly, green or blue indicator lights require no action. They simply appear to inform you of an active system or driving condition.

Corrective Action

To recap, in cases where red or flashing warning lights are evident, take immediate action as previously outlined. Learn what a light represents and follow your maintenance manual to prevent warning light triggers. When you are ready for service, contact us at Zeigler Honda of Racine to make an appointment. Regular maintenance will keep your vehicle in top shape, ensuring that you are never left stranded.