Dashboard indicators

Modern cars display dozens of warning lights. Use this list to recognise the icons that appear in the official exam screenshots and to know how to react when they show up in your own vehicle.

Image	Meaning	Explanation
	4WD High – snow and slippery surface	This icon indicates that 4WD High mode has been engaged, intended for driving at higher speeds on slippery surfaces such as snow, ice or wet asphalt.
	4WD Low – low speed, difficult terrain	The symbol indicates that four-wheel drive low-range mode has been engaged – ideal for steep climbs, driving in mud or sand.
	4x4 drive active	The icon indicates that 4x4 drive is active and all the vehicle's wheels are involved in transmitting drive – useful in difficult terrain.
	ABS system malfunction	This warning light indicates that the anti-lock braking system (ABS) is not working. Quick diagnosis is required, as it may significantly increase braking distance.
	Adaptive cornering lights	The symbol indicates activation of adaptive road lighting, which illuminates bends and improves visibility when turning or negotiating curves.
	Air recirculation mode	The function recirculates air only inside the cabin, with no intake from outside.
	Airbag deactivated	The icon indicates that a given airbag has been deactivated – often when transporting a child in the front seat.
	Airbag system malfunction	The warning light indicates a malfunction of the airbag system. In the event of an accident, the system may not work. A visit to a service centre is recommended.
	Airbag system malfunction	The symbol indicates an error in the airbag system – they may not deploy during a collision. A visit to a service centre is recommended.
	Airbag system malfunction	This warning light indicates that the airbag system is not working properly. In the event of an accident, the airbags may not deploy.
	Airflow to dashboard and footwell	The airflow is directed simultaneously to the dashboard vents and to the passengers' feet.
	Airflow to dashboard vents	The airflow is directed to the vents located in the vehicle's dashboard.
	Airflow to footwell	The airflow is directed mainly towards the driver's and passengers' feet.
	Automatic 4WD	The warning light indicates that automatic four-wheel drive mode has been activated, which automatically adjusts torque distribution between axles.
	Automatic gear shift lock	This icon appears when the gear selector lock is active. This is a safety function preventing accidental gear changes, for example with the ignition on.
	Automatic parking brake active	The icon indicates that the automatic parking brake has been activated and is operating correctly.
	Battery fully charged	The warning light indicates that the battery in the electric vehicle has reached a full charge level.
	Battery or alternator malfunction	The warning light comes on when the battery charging system is not working correctly. This may indicate an alternator failure or a discharged battery.
	Battery problem	The warning light indicates a problem with the battery – it may be a failure, no charging or a damaged alternator. Immediate diagnosis is required.
	Boot lid open	The icon indicates that the boot lid is ajar or has not been properly closed. This can be dangerous while driving.
	Brake pad wear	The warning light warns of significant brake pad wear or a problem with their wear sensors. Replacement or inspection of the system may be necessary.
	Brake system malfunction	The symbol indicates a potential problem with the brakes – it may be low fluid level, worn pads or other irregularities.
	Brake system malfunction	The icon indicates a serious brake system malfunction – immediate vehicle inspection is recommended.
	Brake system malfunction	This warning light indicates abnormal operation of the brake system. This may indicate a malfunction of discs, pads, brake fluid or sensors.
	Brake system problem	The warning light indicates a problem with the brake system. This may be, for example, low brake fluid pressure, a sensor failure or another fault requiring diagnosis.
	Brake system malfunction	This symbol indicates a possible problem with the brake system. It may be, for example, a low brake fluid level, worn brake pads or another fault requiring immediate intervention.
	Burnt-out bulb	The icon indicates a burnt-out bulb in one of the vehicle's lighting systems. Quick replacement is required to maintain safety and compliance with regulations.
	Change in tyre pressure	The icon indicates a change in tyre air pressure. The monitoring system can detect even small differences, which should be checked and equalised.
	Engine fault – Check Engine	The check engine icon indicates a problem with the power unit. The causes can vary – from minor to serious. If the warning light does not go out, computer diagnostics of the vehicle is recommended.
	Engine fault – alternative symbol	This warning light shows another version of the check engine warning. Its presence indicates potential irregularities in the operation of the engine and requires checking at a service centre.
	Cooling system overheating	The warning light indicates that the engine temperature is too high. Continuing to drive may risk damage to the power unit.
	Daytime running lights (DRL)	The icon indicates that the daytime running lights are on; their purpose is to make the vehicle more visible in bright daytime conditions.
	Differential lock	The warning light indicates that the differential lock has been activated, which improves traction in difficult off-road conditions.
	Dipped beam headlights on	The icon indicates that the dipped beam headlights – the basic lighting used after dark – have been switched on.
	DPF filter malfunction	The symbol indicates a problem with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) in a diesel engine. This may be filter clogging, which requires regeneration or service intervention.
	Eco mode active	The warning light indicates that eco mode has been activated, supporting economical driving and reduced fuel or energy consumption.
	Eco mode – electric car	The warning light indicates that the electric vehicle is operating in ECO mode, which limits power and acceleration in order to extend the battery range.
	Economy driving mode	The warning light indicates that economy mode has been activated in the vehicle, supporting reduced fuel or energy consumption.
	Electric car ready to drive	The icon indicates that the electric car is switched on and ready to start driving.
	Electric parking brake not working	The symbol indicates abnormal operation of the electric parking brake. In some cases, restarting the system or a visit to a service centre may be necessary.
	Electronic switch – off	The icon indicates that the system for switching between electronic systems has been deactivated.
	Electronic switch – on	The warning light indicates that switching between electronic systems is active.
	Electronic throttle control malfunction	The warning light indicates an irregularity in the operation of the throttle control system. It may cause loss of power, jerking or the engine's limp mode.
	Parking brake applied or brake system malfunction	This symbol may mean that the parking brake is applied or that there is a problem with the brake system. If it appears while driving, immediate action is required.
	Engine malfunction	The symbol indicates detection of a more serious malfunction of the power unit. It is recommended to have the vehicle's technical condition checked as soon as possible.
	Engine operation problems	The icon indicates possible disturbances in engine operation. This may affect performance and fuel consumption. It is worth carrying out diagnostics.
	ESP system malfunction	The icon indicates that the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is not operating correctly. This may result in loss of traction and reduced safety on slippery surfaces.
	Electric car charging in progress	The warning light indicates that the electric vehicle is currently charging. It may also indicate the charging status – e.g. completed or in progress.
	Faulty bulb	The symbol warns that a burnt-out or faulty bulb has been detected in the vehicle. Replacing the faulty light source is necessary for driving safety.
	Fog lights on	The symbol indicates activation of the fog lights, which improve visibility in difficult weather conditions such as fog, rain or snow.
	Fresh air ventilation	The ventilation system uses fresh air from outside the vehicle and does not use recirculation.
	Front fog lights	The warning light indicates that the front fog lights have been switched on, used in conditions of reduced visibility such as fog or heavy rain.
	Fuel contamination or presence of water	The icon indicates detection of water or contaminants in the fuel. This may lead to engine operation problems and requires cleaning of the fuel system.
	Fuel filler cap problem	This icon appears when the fuel filler cap is loose, missing or incorrectly fitted. This may lead to leakage and the engine warning light coming on.
	Gear shift recommendation	The warning light suggests shifting to a higher gear – a hint for more efficient and more environmentally friendly driving.
	Gearbox fault	This warning light indicates irregularities in the operation of the gearbox – manual or automatic. It is recommended to have the fault checked at a service centre as soon as possible.
	Gearbox malfunction	The warning light indicates a gearbox malfunction. It is recommended to limit driving and go to a service centre as soon as possible.
	General vehicle malfunction	A universal malfunction icon appears when a serious problem is detected. The error code should be read and a thorough diagnosis carried out.
	Glow plug indicator (Diesel)	This warning light appears in vehicles with a diesel engine. If it lights up briefly after switching on the ignition – the glow plugs are heating up. If it flashes or lights up while driving, it indicates a possible malfunction of the glow plug system.
	Hazard lights on	The icon indicates that the hazard lights have been switched on – they are used in emergency situations or in the event of a breakdown on the road.
	Headlight range control failure	The warning light indicates a malfunction of the automatic headlight range control system, which adjusts the beam angle to the vehicle's load.
	High automatic transmission oil temperature	The symbol appears when the oil in the automatic transmission reaches too high a temperature. This may lead to gearbox damage.
	High beam assistant	The icon indicates operation of the automatic high-beam control system, which switches the high beams on and off depending on the presence of other vehicles.
	High beam headlights (main beam)	The warning light indicates activation of the high beam headlights (main beam). They are used outside built-up areas at night when they do not dazzle other road users.
	High beam headlights on	The warning light confirms that the high beam headlights (main beam) are currently on. They should be used in accordance with regulations to avoid dazzling other drivers.
	High transmission oil temperature	This icon indicates overheating of the oil in the automatic transmission. Driving should be stopped and the unit allowed to cool down.
	High transmission oil temperature	The icon indicates overheating of the oil in the automatic transmission. Stopping the vehicle may be necessary.
	Electric mode in a hybrid	The warning light indicates that the hybrid vehicle is operating exclusively in electric mode, enabling quiet and more environmentally friendly driving.
	Immobilizer – key not authorized	The warning light indicates that the transponder key could not be read. Without authorization, starting the engine will not be possible.
	Incorrect oil level	This warning light warns of too low or too high engine oil level. Both a shortage and an excess of oil can lead to serious engine damage.
	Insufficient charge of electric car	The warning light indicates that the battery in the electric car has too low an energy level. The vehicle must be connected to charging.
	Interior fan	The symbol indicates that the vehicle's cabin ventilation fan has been switched on.
	Interior lights or automatic headlights	The icon may indicate that the vehicle's interior lights are on or that the automatic headlight activation system is enabled depending on ambient light conditions.
	Key not detected	The warning light indicates that the vehicle did not detect the key. This may result from a malfunction, a discharged key battery or too great a distance.
	Key not detected in vehicle	The warning light indicates that the key was not detected in the car. This may mean that it was forgotten, discharged or is out of the system's range.
	Lambda sensor malfunction	This symbol indicates problems with the lambda sensor – the sensor responsible for the composition of the fuel-air mixture. It can affect fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
	Lane assist not working	The warning light indicates that the lane keeping assist system is inactive or a malfunction has occurred. The system may be temporarily disabled or require repair.
	Low brake fluid level	The symbol indicates a low brake fluid level – lack of it may lead to loss of braking effectiveness.
	Low charge level – hybrid	The icon warns of a low battery charge level in a hybrid vehicle. Quick recharging of the battery is recommended.
	Low coolant level	The icon indicates that the coolant level has dropped below the minimum. Driving in this condition may cause engine overheating and serious damage.
	Low engine oil level	The warning light warns that the engine oil level is below a safe minimum. Failure to react may lead to serious engine failure.
	Low EV battery charge	The symbol appears in electric cars and indicates that the battery charge level is approaching the minimum. Quick connection to charging is required.
	Low coolant temperature	The icon warns that the engine coolant temperature is too low and is commonly displayed shortly after starting the vehicle.
	Low fuel level	The warning light indicates that the fuel level in the tank is low. Refuelling should be done as soon as possible to avoid the vehicle stopping.
	Low oil pressure	This icon indicates very low oil pressure or too low oil level. The vehicle must be stopped immediately and the lubrication system checked.
	Low tyre pressure	The warning light warns that in one or more tyres the pressure has dropped below the recommended level. Too low pressure negatively affects safety and fuel consumption.
	Message pending to be read	This warning light indicates that a message or notification is waiting in the vehicle's system. The content of the message will appear after appropriate confirmation or switching the view.
	No coolant	This symbol indicates that the coolant level has dropped to the minimum or is completely missing. The vehicle must be stopped immediately and the coolant topped up to avoid engine overheating.
	Oil change required or low level	The icon may indicate that an oil change is required based on mileage or that the oil level is very low. It is worth checking the oil level as soon as possible.
	Parking brake applied	The icon indicates that the parking brake is still applied. It must be released before starting to drive.
	Parking gear problem	The warning light indicates a possible malfunction of the parking gear in the automatic transmission. The driveline should be checked.
	Parking sensors active	The icon indicates that the parking sensors are operating and monitoring the vehicle's surroundings during manoeuvres.
	Parking sensors malfunction	The icon warns of problems with the parking sensors – they may not detect obstacles correctly or may not work at all.
	PCS system malfunction	The warning light indicates abnormal operation of the Pre-Collision System (PCS). It may not respond properly in a hazard situation. The system should be checked at a service centre.
	Possible 4x4 drivetrain malfunction	This icon indicates that an error or irregularity has occurred in the operation of the four-wheel drive system. Diagnostics at a service centre may be required.
	Power steering malfunction	The symbol indicates a malfunction in the power steering system. This may result in difficulty manoeuvring the vehicle.
	RBS system malfunction	The icon indicates irregularities in the operation of the RBS system (Regenerative Braking System – energy recovery system during braking). This may affect the efficiency of battery charging and braking.
	Rear axle lock – warning light variant	Another version of the warning light indicating activation of the rear differential lock. Its operation depends on the type of vehicle and drive.
	Rear differential lock	The symbol indicates that the rear axle has been locked, which enables even distribution of drive and facilitates driving in mud or snow.
	Rear fog lights	The icon indicates activation of the rear fog lights, which make the vehicle more visible to traffic behind in poor visibility conditions.
	Rear lights – regional version	A symbol used in some regions to indicate that the rear position lights are switched on.
	Rear window defrost	The symbol indicates that the rear window heating/defrosting function has been activated.
	Red warning light	A red warning light is an alarm signal – the cause of its appearance should be checked immediately.
	Reduced engine power	This icon indicates that the vehicle is operating in limp mode with reduced power. This may be caused by a malfunction in one of the engine control systems.
	Regional rear lights symbol	Another graphic variant used locally to indicate that the rear lights are switched on. Usage depends on the region and vehicle type.
	Seat belts not fastened	The warning light reminds that the driver or passengers must fasten their seat belts. It is often accompanied by an audible signal.
	Security key required	The warning light indicates that a special security key is required, which may be needed to start the vehicle.
	Security system or immobilizer	The symbol indicates that the vehicle security system is active or that the immobilizer is operating, preventing the car from being started without authorization.
	Service inspection required	The symbol indicates that the vehicle should be taken for a service inspection. This may be in accordance with the service schedule or may result from detected faults.
	Side airbag inactive	The symbol indicates that one of the side airbags is deactivated or has malfunctioned. In the event of a collision, its operation may be limited.
	Stability control system malfunction	The icon indicates a malfunction of the ESP system or a similar system responsible for maintaining the vehicle's course. This may affect driving safety, especially in difficult conditions.
	Start-stop system on	The icon indicates that the start-stop system is active and can automatically switch off the engine when stopped to reduce fuel consumption.
	Start-Stop system – operating status	The green version of the indicator means the Start-Stop system is active. Yellow with an exclamation mark indicates an error or temporary disabling of the function.
	Suggested upshift	The icon advises the driver to shift to a higher gear to improve fuel economy and reduce fuel consumption.
	Too short distance to the vehicle ahead	The warning light warns of too short a distance to the vehicle ahead. Increased caution is recommended.
	Traction control system malfunction	This warning light indicates a malfunction of the traction control system or its manual deactivation. Flashing of the icon means that the system actively intervened – e.g. during a skid.
	Traction control system off	This warning light indicates that the traction control system has been deactivated – manually by the driver or automatically as a result of a fault. Driving may be less stable.
	Traction control system on	The icon indicates that the traction control system (TCS) is active and assists the driver when driving in difficult road conditions.
	Traction – slippery surface	The icon appears when the traction control system intervenes due to wheel slip – e.g. on ice, snow or a wet surface. It indicates active traction correction.
	Turn indicators or hazard lights on	If one of the icons flashes, it means the left or right turn indicator has been switched on. If both icons flash simultaneously, it indicates that the hazard lights have been activated.
	Two-wheel drive only	This warning light indicates that the vehicle has 4x4 drive, but currently only two axles are operating – usually to save fuel.
	Vehicle being towed	The icon indicates that the vehicle is in towing mode or is preparing to be towed. It may also indicate activation of the appropriate mode in the driveline system.
	Vehicle bonnet open	The warning light indicates that the engine bonnet has not been properly closed. It should be checked before starting to drive to avoid danger.
	Vehicle door open	This warning light indicates that one or more doors in the vehicle have not been properly closed. They should be checked before moving off.
	Vehicle immobilized	The icon indicates that the vehicle has been immobilized – this may be an anti-theft protection or the immobilizer.
	Vehicle on a lift	The warning light indicates that the vehicle is in service mode or requires lifting. It often appears in vehicles with self-levelling systems or air suspension.
	Vehicle system malfunction	The icon indicates a problem in one of the vehicle's systems. It may concern the stability system, electronics or another module. Computer diagnostics is recommended.
	Low washer fluid level	This warning light indicates that the washer fluid is running low. It is worth topping up the reservoir to maintain good visibility and driving safety in difficult conditions.
	Windscreen washer	The warning light indicates activation of the front or rear windscreen washer.
	Windscreen wipers	The icon indicates that the front windscreen wipers have been switched on.
	Worn brake pads	The warning light warns of significant brake pad wear. Driving in this condition may be dangerous.