What Do Hyundai Dashboard Warning Lights and Symbols Mean

Your Hyundai's dashboard is equipped with various warning lights and symbols designed to alert you to potential issues with your vehicle. These lights serve as essential indicators of your car's health and safety systems, helping you understand when maintenance or immediate action is required. In this guide, we'll explore the most common Hyundai dashboard warning lights and symbols, along with their meanings.

1. Check Engine Light:

Symbol: A yellow engine icon or the words "CHECK ENGINE."

The check engine light is one of the most common warning lights you may encounter. It indicates a potential issue with the engine or its associated systems, such as the emissions control system. When this light illuminates, it's advisable to have your Hyundai's engine inspected by a qualified technician to identify and address the problem.

2. Battery Warning Light:

Symbol: A battery icon or the words "BATTERY."

The battery warning light typically indicates a charging system issue, such as a malfunctioning alternator or a weak battery. If this light comes on while driving, it's essential to address it promptly to prevent a potential breakdown.

3. Oil Pressure Warning Light:

Symbol: A red oil can or the words "OIL PRESSURE."

When the oil pressure warning light illuminates, it means that the engine's oil pressure is too low. Low oil pressure can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. Stop your Hyundai, turn off the engine, and check the oil level. If it's low, add oil, and if the light remains on, seek professional assistance.

4. Brake System Warning Light:

Symbol: A red exclamation mark inside a circle or the words "BRAKE" or "BRAKE SYSTEM."

The brake system warning light indicates a problem with your Hyundai's braking system. It could be due to low brake fluid, a malfunctioning brake system component, or worn brake pads. It's crucial to have your brakes inspected immediately for safety reasons.

5. ABS Warning Light:

Symbol: The letters "ABS" inside a circle.

The ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) warning light is separate from the standard brake system warning light. It indicates an issue with the ABS system, which helps prevent wheel lockup during heavy braking. While your standard brakes should still function, it's advisable to have the ABS system checked.

6. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light:

Symbol: An exclamation mark inside a tire or the words "TPMS."

The TPMS light indicates that one or more of your Hyundai's tires has low air pressure. Proper tire inflation is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the light remains on, there may be a tire sensor issue that requires professional attention.

7. Airbag Warning Light:

Symbol: A depiction of an airbag deploying or the words "AIRBAG" or "SRS."

The airbag warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle's airbag system. In the event of an accident, the airbags may not deploy as intended, posing a safety risk. Have the airbag system inspected and repaired by a qualified technician.

8. Traction Control System (TCS) Light:

Symbol: The letters "TCS" or "TCS OFF" or a car with squiggly lines.

The TCS light comes on when the traction control system is engaged or when you manually turn it off. TCS helps maintain stability and prevent wheel spin during acceleration. If the light is on and not due to your input, it may indicate a system malfunction.

9. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Light:

Symbol: The letters "ESC" or "ESC OFF" or a car with squiggly lines and skid marks.

The ESC light indicates when the Electronic Stability Control system is active or has been manually turned off. ESC enhances stability and helps prevent skidding. If the light is on when not intentionally turned off, there may be a system issue.

10. Low Fuel Warning Light:

Symbol: A gas pump icon or the words "LOW FUEL."

The low fuel warning light alerts you when your Hyundai's fuel level is critically low. When this light comes on, it's time to refuel to avoid running out of gas.

11. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL):

Symbol: A yellow engine icon with the word "MIL" or "SERVICE ENGINE SOON."

The MIL, often referred to as the "check engine light," is a general warning light that can illuminate for various reasons, including emissions system issues or minor engine problems. It's a signal to have your vehicle's engine system checked by a professional technician.

12. Washer Fluid Warning Light:

Symbol: A windshield with wavy lines or the words "WASHER FLUID LOW."

The washer fluid warning light indicates that the washer fluid reservoir is running low. Refill the reservoir with windshield washer fluid to ensure