Understanding the BMW Dashboard Symbols and Service Indicator Lights

Those who own a vehicle will understand how important it is to learn the signs and symbols indicated by their car for their betterment. As a BMW owner, you should know that your car communicates with you via BMW dashboard symbols. They indicate the issues in the form of warning lights. Before you go further, it is important to note that these symbols differ from model to model. Each light depicts a certain issue that your vehicle might be facing at the moment.

Red: Warning sign that needs an immediate attention

Orange & Yellow: Warning sign which is not critical

Blue & Green: Indicating the active feature of the vehicle

Important BMW Dashboard Symbols You Need to Know

It is not necessary to know all the symbols and their meaning, even if you’re a BMW owner. However, it is essential to understand the meaning of each symbol so that your vehicle can effectively communicate any issue.

In this guide, you will understand what each of the BMW dashboard symbols means and how urgently the problem needs to be addressed. Let’s decode these signs together!

Brake System warning light: 

When it comes to BMW cars, if the brake is reflecting yellow light, it implies that the hill assist function has stopped working. This sign prevents the vehicle from moving back when you accelerate the vehicle on an incline, by holding the footbrake when you release the brake. If there is an issue with hill assist, get it checked by a professional as soon as possible.

Brake Pad Replacement warning light: 

If you ever witness this sign, it means that your vehicle’s sensor has detected your brake pads to be too thin. You need to fix it before your brake pads wear out completely. Worn out brake pads can lead to ineffective braking, which is not the safest way to be on the road.

Make sure you opt for a BMW Car Service to avoid any further damage.

Anti-lock Brake System Warning Light: 

One of the most important safety features is the sign shown above. This feature works well if you need to make an abrupt stop or face difficulties while driving on icy roads. Anti-lock Braking System tells you when the system is working and also detects any unseen fault. If this feature is activated with a brake warning sign, you need to stop the vehicle right away and call for help.

| Also Read: How Does a Car Brake System Work? |

Check Engine Warning Sign: 

This sign can either be called the Engine Management Indicator or the Malfunction Lamp but it is commonly known as the Check Engine Light. When illuminated, this light informs the driver about an issue in the engine, causing a lack of power in the vehicle.

Coolant Levels Warning Light: 

Coolant fluid is known to absorb heat from the engine of your vehicle to avoid overheating. When the coolant levels are running low, this yellow sign appears on your dashboard just to remind you to top them up. Make sure you avoid any long journey when the coolant level is low.

Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light: 

Your car engine may start heating. This indicates to the driver to stop the vehicle from overheating. There are several reasons associated with why overheating happens: leaking in the system, or a head gasket failure. In such a case, turn off the ignition and wait for your vehicle to cool down.

Engine Oil Level: 

The yellow oil warning light goes up when either the oil temperature gets excessively high, or the oil level or pressure is excessively low. If the oil isn’t greasing up the motor properly, it can cause harm to the engine, so it’s essential to act rapidly.

| Read More: Motor Oils: How to Pick the Best Engine Oil for Your Car? |

Change Engine Oil warning light:

Your vehicle’s dashboard lights up with a symbol to warn you about the engine oil. Make sure you change the oil as soon as possible to avoid any future damage.

Battery Charging System warning light: 

While driving, if you come across this sign, it means that your battery is not charging properly. This can happen due to faulty car electrical systems or due to faulty alternator, battery and other damaged cables.

Airbag Warning Light: 

If this light goes up, understand that this is a serious problem. Airbag warning light means that at least one element of airbag safety isn’t working properly. Get it fixed quickly to stay safe.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) warning light: 

Dynamic Stability Control light indicates that your vehicle is having an issue with footing control. If it’s glimmering, it implies the DSC framework is mediating – for instance, when you’re driving on a tricky street. If the light stays on, it implies the DSC framework isn’t working as expected. The DSC indicator will light up with the word ‘Off’ if it has been deactivated. In many cases, you may have incidentally turned the indicator off. To check, take a stab at halting and restarting the motor.

Transmission Fault Warning Light: 

To inform a transmission problem detected in your vehicle, your car lights up with a particular sign. If you have the right equipment, you can check and top up the transmission liquid yourself. However, it’s a better option to get any issues checked by an expert, as proceeding to drive could cause more harm and programmed transmissions can be costly to supplant.

Tyre Pressure warning light: 

A lot of BMW vehicles are fitted with tire pressure checking equipment that will tell you when the pressing level drops. This could redirect to a cut. In any case, the low tire pressing factor can cause hazardous driving conditions, so lower down your speed and avoid making harsh moves.

Steering Lock warning light:

The steering lock is an anti-theft device that forestalls any individual who doesn’t have the keys from driving the vehicle. It successfully secures the controlling wheel position so that nobody attempts to move the wheel when the engine is off. A yellow admonition light connotes that there’s an issue with the framework that you ought to get looked at quickly.

As a BMW owner, make sure you understand the BMW dashboard symbol. This will help you avoid any future problem; physically or internally. Make sure you get all the issues fixed before it becomes fatal.