As a vehicle owner, you know the anxiety that comes when a warning light appears on your dashboard. While some of your Kia’s dashboard warning lights aren’t cause for concern, others appear when there are serious issues with your vehicle. It’s important to understand these lights, as they provide essential information about your car’s status and can help prevent more significant issues down the road. Here’s a closer look at the most common Kia dashboard symbols and their meanings.
Kia Warning Lights Symbols Explained
Airbag Warning Light
Symbol: Airbag and passenger icon
The airbag light indicates a potential issue with your vehicle’s airbag system, which could prevent the airbags from deploying in the event of a crash. If this light comes on, bring your Kia in for service.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light
Symbol: “ABS” in circle
This light indicates an issue with the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). While your regular brakes may still function, the ABS system may be compromised. This system allows for the most effective braking when stopping suddenly or when driving in bad weather, so bring your vehicle in for service if you see this warning light.
Automatic Shift Lock or Engine Start Indicator
Symbol: Shoe in circle
Also known as the “press brake” indicator, you may see this warning light if you attempt to start the car or put it into gear without stepping on the brake first. Press down on the brake and then continue as normal, and the light should turn off.
Battery Warning Light
Symbol: Battery outline
The battery light indicates a problem with your vehicle’s electrical system, often related to the battery or alternator. If this light is illuminated, you may have a dead battery, which will make itself evident when you try to start your car.
However, this light can also appear when the car is running. If this happens, don’t assume all is well. Check the battery connections and have the charging system tested to prevent breakdowns.
Brake Warning Light
Symbol: Exclamation point in circle
This is a more general sign that there’s an issue with the brake system. It might be something as simple as forgetting to disengage the parking brake (though some cars have a specific light that says “parking brake” for this reason).
This light can also indicate more worrisome issues, such as low brake fluid or thin brake pads. Your brakes are essential for safe slowing and stopping, so schedule service if you see the flashing exclamation point on your Kia dashboard.
Check Engine Light
Symbol: Engine outline
The check engine light can indicate any of a wide range of issues. Some small components can trigger this light, such as a fuel tank cap that’s loose or cracked, allowing fuel to evaporate. However, the check engine light can also appear due to much larger issues, such as an overheating engine that requires you to stop right away. If this light comes on and there are no obvious changes in your car’s performance, visit our service department and our team will determine what caused the light to appear.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Symbol: Thermometer in liquid
This light indicates that your car is overheating, which can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed. If you see this light while driving, pull over safely and allow the engine to cool down before investigating the cause. Continuing to drive with this light on is not only unsafe, but it can cause permanent damage to your vehicle.
Low Fuel Indicator
Symbol: Gas pump icon
Seasoned drivers know that the fuel pump icon means it’s time to fill up. When you see this warning light, plan to stop for fuel as soon as you can, as it’s better to be safe than stranded.
Oil Pressure Light
Symbol: Oil can outline
This light indicates low oil pressure in your engine, which can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed immediately. If this light comes on, check your oil levels, refill if necessary, and look for leaks. One way to do this is by looking for oil stains in the driveway that could be coming from a leaky gasket. If the oil levels are fine and there are no signs of leakage, something else may be wrong, so it’s time to consult our expert service team.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
Symbol: Flat tire outline with exclamation point
This light appears when one or more tires are over- or under-inflated, which can affect your vehicle’s handling and fuel efficiency. Regularly check that your tires are inflated to the recommended levels to ensure your vehicle performs at its best.
Traction/Stability Control Light
Symbol: Swerving car
This car swerving light signals that the electronic stability control (ESC) system is active or that there is a malfunction in the system. While it’s normal for it to activate during slippery conditions, if it remains lit, you should have a professional take a look.
Washer Fluid Light
Symbol: Windshield with spraying water
One of the less concerning Kia dash symbols on this list, this light simply means it’s time to fill up your windshield washer fluid.
What to Do When a Warning Light Comes On
- Stay Calm: Not all Kia instrument panel symbols indicate immediate issues, but they should be taken seriously.
- Refer to the Owner’s Manual: Your Kia’s manual provides detailed information about each warning light and recommended actions.
- Schedule Service: If a light appears that indicates an issue, make a service appointment here at Wyatt Johnson Kia to have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired.
- Act Quickly: If a warning light indicates a serious issue (like engine overheating or low oil pressure), stop driving and address the problem as soon as possible.
Visit Us for Service at Wyatt Johnson Kia
For even more information on the Kia dashboard lights and the dash light meanings, contact us online or stop by our service department today. We have a team of experienced Kia technicians on staff, any one of whom would be happy to tell you more about the Kia dashboard symbols. It’s our goal to keep your Kia running smoothly and to help you drive with confidence throughout Clarksville, TN, and beyond.
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