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Quizzes > Lifestyle & Hobbies > Travel & Transportation

Identify Your Car's Dashboard Warning Lights and Symbols - Take the Quiz!

Think you know your car inside symbols and dashboard alert symbols? Dive in!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for car dashboard symbols quiz on coral background

Ready to level up your automotive know-how? In our Identify Symbols Inside Your Car quiz, you'll explore everyday symbols inside car dashboards and learn to quickly recognize important warnings. This free, interactive dashboard alert symbols activity is designed to test your knowledge of car notification symbols and keep you safer on the road. Perfect for new drivers eager to decode every lamp and seasoned motorists seeking a quick refresher before a road trip or maintenance check. Whether you want to master how to identify the car control indicated by each icon or dive into our fun symbol quiz , this challenge is your fast track to confidence behind the wheel. Take the quiz now and show the road who's boss!

What does the illuminated silhouette of a person wearing a seatbelt indicate on your dashboard?
Your seat belt is not fastened.
Seat heater is turned on.
Child seat detected.
Airbag system is malfunctioning.
This symbol appears when the vehicle detects an unbuckled seatbelt in the driver or front passenger seat. It serves as a reminder to fasten your seat belt for safety. Once the belt is properly secured, the warning light will turn off. source
Which warning light indicates that your fuel level is low?
Gas pump icon
Fan blade icon
Thermometer with waves
Engine outline
The gas pump symbol typically lights up when the fuel reservoir reaches a low level and you need to refuel soon. It's straightforward and commonly located on the dashboard cluster. Ignoring this warning could leave you stranded. source
What does the blue headlight icon with rays indicate on your dashboard?
High beam headlights are active.
Daytime running lights are off.
Low beam headlights are active.
Fog lights are on.
The blue headlight icon with horizontal rays indicates that the high beam headlights are active. It helps the driver know when high beams could blind oncoming traffic so they can dim them when necessary. This indicator will switch off when you deactivate the high beam. source
Which indicator shows that the left turn signal is active?
Blue turn-off symbol
Green arrow pointing to the left
Yellow double arrow icon
Red circular arrow
A green arrow pointing to the left indicates that the left turn signal is active. It blinks in sync with the exterior light to warn other drivers of your intention to turn or change lanes. It will switch off automatically or can be manually turned off after completion of the maneuver. source
What does the red exclamation point inside a circle on your dashboard indicate?
Parking brake is engaged.
ABS has malfunctioned.
Brake fluid is overheating.
Tire pressure is too low.
The red exclamation point inside a circle (enclosed by parentheses) indicates the parking brake is engaged. It also may appear if there's a brake system hydraulic issue. Releasing the parking brake will turn off the light; if it stays on, check brake fluid or consult a mechanic. source
Which symbol warns you that a door is not fully closed?
Trunk icon with arrow
Window defect indicator
Vehicle silhouette with open doors
Hood open icon
The icon showing a vehicle silhouette with one or more doors open warns that a door is not fully closed. It's a safety feature to prevent driving with an ajar door. Secure all doors to clear the indicator. source
What does the battery-shaped warning light signify?
Engine start-stop disabled.
Airbag system ready.
Charging system malfunction.
Alternator output is high.
The battery-shaped symbol signals a problem with the charging system, such as a faulty alternator or battery. If it remains on while driving, the battery is not charging properly and the vehicle may eventually lose power. It's important to have the electrical system inspected promptly. source
What does the "ABS" warning light on your dashboard mean?
The airbags are ready to deploy.
There is a problem with the anti-lock braking system.
The automatic braking function is active.
Tire pressure is low.
The ABS warning light illuminates to indicate a malfunction within the anti-lock braking system. When this light stays on, the ABS may not prevent wheel lock-up during braking. Normal braking still works but without ABS assistance, increasing stopping distance on slippery roads. source
What does the check engine light represent?
Oil change needed.
Low battery charge.
Brake system service required.
Emission control or engine management fault.
The check engine light signals that the engine control unit has detected a fault in the emission or engine management system. It can indicate issues ranging from a loose gas cap to serious engine problems. Diagnosing with an OBD-II scanner will reveal specific trouble codes. source
What does the oil can icon with a drip mean?
Engine oil pressure is low.
Engine coolant level is low.
Transmission fluid is overheating.
Brake fluid is low.
The oil can icon with a drip represents low engine oil pressure, which can cause engine damage if not addressed immediately. It may mean oil level is low or the oil pump is failing. Stop the car and check the oil level to prevent engine wear. source
Which symbol indicates low tire pressure?
Seat belt icon.
Fuel pump icon.
Exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape.
Battery icon.
The symbol showing an exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape denotes low tire pressure in one or more tires. Underinflated tires can affect fuel economy and handling. Inflate tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. source
What does the thermometer in waves icon indicate?
Engine is overheating.
Cabin temperature is too cold.
Transmission fluid temperature is low.
Windshield washer fluid is low.
The thermometer submerged in waves icon indicates the engine coolant temperature is too high. Operating under these conditions can cause engine damage. Pull over safely and allow the engine to cool before checking coolant levels. source
What does it mean when the car icon with squiggly skid marks lights up?
Tires need replacement.
Engine size selection active.
Transmission slipping.
Traction control system is active.
The car icon with wavy skid marks signals that the traction control system is active, helping prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces. It may flash when the system intervenes, and remains on during operation. If it stays lit, it could signify a malfunction. source
Which warning light indicates an airbag system fault?
Parking brake icon.
Seat belt reminder icon.
Seated person with a circle (airbag) icon.
ABS icon.
The symbol depicting a seated person and a circle represents an airbag or supplemental restraint system fault. If illuminated, the airbags may not deploy in a collision, requiring immediate inspection. Have a professional diagnose the issue. source
What does the symbol showing a car with skid marks and the word "OFF" mean?
The electronic stability control is turned off.
Emergency braking has been applied.
Parking assist is disabled.
Cruise control is active.
When the traction control or electronic stability control light includes "OFF," it means the driver has manually disabled the system. With ESC off, the vehicle won't intervene to help maintain control during skids. It's recommended to keep ESC on for safety except in specific terrain situations. source
What does the coil or spiral icon on a diesel vehicle indicate?
High beam headlamps are on.
Engine oil is hot.
The diesel glow plugs are warming up.
Turn signals are off.
In diesel engines, the coil or spiral icon indicates the glow plugs are heating the combustion chamber for a cold start. Wait until the light turns off before starting the engine to ensure proper ignition. Starting too early can lead to rough starts or engine damage. source
What does the gear icon combined with a thermometer signify?
Transmission fluid is overheating.
Power steering fluid issue.
Engine coolant is too cold.
Fuel filter needs replacement.
A gear icon combined with a thermometer indicates the transmission fluid is overheating. Prolonged high transmission temps can damage internal components. Stop driving and allow it to cool, then check fluid level or service the system. source
Which light indicates that the AdBlue (DEF) level is low in a diesel vehicle?
Tire pressure icon.
Engine oil change icon.
Air filter blockage icon.
AdBlue/DEF icon illuminated.
The AdBlue or DEF icon alerts the driver that the diesel exhaust fluid level is low. Without sufficient DEF, the selective catalytic reduction system cannot reduce NOx emissions, and engine power may be limited. Refill with the correct fluid to restore normal operation. source
What does the icon showing two cars and a starburst symbolize?
Blind spot monitoring.
Forward collision warning or pre-collision system.
Lane keep assist.
Hill descent control.
The icon showing two cars colliding (often with a starburst) represents the forward collision or pre-collision warning system. It alerts the driver to potential frontal impacts. Some systems can also apply brakes to avoid or mitigate a crash. source
Which symbol indicates the lane departure warning system is active?
Tire rotation reminder.
Vehicle between two lane markings.
Cruise control icon.
Low washer fluid icon.
The icon depicting a vehicle drifting out of lane lines indicates the lane departure warning or lane keeping assist is active. It alerts or corrects steering when the car moves unintentionally across lanes. This feature enhances safety on highways. source
What does the triangle with an exclamation mark warning light signify?
Seat belt not fastened.
Tire pressure too high.
Cruise control is off.
General warning or fault indicator.
The triangle with an exclamation mark is a general warning indicator that can signify various faults depending on vehicle make. It often points to stability control malfunctions or other system errors. Check the owner's manual or the onboard info system for specific fault codes. source
What does the illuminated brake pad with a dashed line symbol indicate?
Brake pad wear sensor triggered.
Brake fluid level is high.
ABS has malfunctioned.
Parking brake is engaged.
This symbol indicates that the brake pads have worn to a level where the wear sensor triggers a warning. Continuing to drive without replacing pads can damage rotors. Schedule a brake service to ensure safe stopping performance. source
What does the headlight icon with up and down arrows mean?
Daytime running lights are off.
Fog lights are on.
Automatic high beam is active.
Automatic headlight leveling system fault.
The headlamp icon with arrows up and down indicates a malfunction in the automatic headlight leveling or range control system. This system adjusts beam height based on vehicle load. When faulty, headlights may not aim properly, reducing visibility. source
What does the hybrid system warning light depicting a battery combined with electric motor icon indicate?
Traction control is off.
A fault in the hybrid battery or electric drive system.
The car's battery is charging.
Engine oil level is low.
A battery icon combined with electric motor or 'EV' letters indicates a problem in the hybrid or electric drive system. The vehicle may limit power or shut off hybrid mode. Have the system diagnosed by a qualified technician. source
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recognize common dashboard alert symbols -

    Identify various symbols inside car dashboards, including engine and tire pressure icons, by their distinct shapes and colors.

  2. Interpret warning light meanings -

    Understand what each car notification symbol signifies and its level of urgency, from informational alerts to critical warnings.

  3. Differentiate critical vs non-critical symbols -

    Distinguish which dashboard alert symbols require immediate action and which ones are routine notifications.

  4. Apply appropriate in-car responses -

    Respond correctly to each symbol by following recommended steps, such as checking fluids or scheduling maintenance.

  5. Build confidence in dashboard navigation -

    Feel more secure on the road by mastering car inside symbols and efficiently interpreting alert indicators.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Check Engine Light -

    Often depicted as an engine outline, this symbol signals your onboard diagnostics system has detected an issue (NHTSA.gov). Memorize "CEL = Causes Every Little problem" as a mnemonic to remember it can range from a loose gas cap to more serious engine faults. Regularly scanning with an OBD-II tool or visiting a certified technician helps diagnose and clear this essential symbols inside car warning.

  2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) -

    Shown as a horseshoe shape with an exclamation point, the TPMS icon alerts you to under-inflated tires (AAA.com). A simple "S.U.R.E." trick - See Underpressure? Refuel or Inflate - can help recall to check PSI before every drive. Proper tire pressure not only keeps you safe but also improves fuel efficiency and extends tire life.

  3. Battery/Charging System Indicator -

    This car notification symbol, illustrated by a battery icon, warns when the charging circuit isn't generating enough voltage (SAE.org). Remember the phrase "B.A.T.T." - Battery Alert, Test Today - to prompt immediate voltage checks with a multimeter or professional inspection. Ignoring this dashboard alert symbols activity can lead to a dead battery and stalled vehicle.

  4. Oil Pressure Warning -

    Typically shown as an oil can with a dripping drop, low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage if overlooked (Your car's owner's manual). Use the mnemonic "O.I.L." - Oil Insufficient? Lubricate! - to check levels and schedule an oil change promptly. Monitoring this critical car inside symbols alert preserves engine longevity and performance.

  5. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Light -

    The ABS light, often circling "ABS," indicates an issue with your anti-lock brakes (DOT research). Recall "A.B.S. = Always Brake Safely" to remember that an illuminated light means your standard brakes still work but without skid protection. Prompt professional diagnostics ensure that traction control and anti-lock functions help you stop safely in emergencies.

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