Toyota Safety at Your Fingertips
Your Toyota's dashboard is your car's communication center. We're here to help you understand every signal, ensuring you drive with confidence and peace of mind. Scroll down to decode your dashboard and keep your Toyota running smoothly.
Decoding Your Toyota's Dashboard
Your Toyota's dashboard lights are more than just illuminations – they're your vehicle's way of communicating its needs. From routine maintenance reminders to urgent alerts, understanding these signals is key to maintaining your Toyota's performance and your safety on the road.
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Toyota Seat Belt Reminder Warning LightThe seatbelt warning light indicates that a passenger's seatbelt is not properly fastened. If the light stays on even when the belt is fastened, it means the belt is not fully seated in the slot and you may need to replace the belt buckle. Check that all seatbelts are correctly fastened to turn off the light. If the issue persists, have the seatbelt system inspected by a mechanic. |
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Toyota Cruise Control Malfunction Warning LightThe cruise control light has turned yellow or red, indicating a problem with the system. This could be due to a faulty sensor or brake switch. If the light is flashing or refuses to come on, check for a blown fuse or malfunctioning switch. If the issue persists, have the system checked by a professional mechanic. |
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Toyota Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning LightThe adaptive cruise control (ACC) light indicates a problem with the ACC system, which helps maintain a safe following distance. When this light appears, stop the car safely and check the radar for obstructions; if the issue persists, visit an authorized repairer for assistance. |
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Toyota ABS Warning LightThe ABS light indicates a problem with the Anti-lock Braking System, which prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking. If this light comes on unexpectedly, it needs to be checked by a mechanic. The ABS system rapidly adjusts brake pressure to prevent wheel lockup and maintain vehicle control. Get your vehicle inspected immediately if the ABS light stays on. |
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Toyota Engine Oil Pressure Warning LightThe oil pressure warning light, represented by an oil can symbol, indicates a problem with the vehicle's oil system. This could be due to low oil levels, a leak in the engine, or worn parts such as a blown piston ring or broken oil pump. Check the engine's dipstick to see if oil levels are low and add oil if necessary. If adding oil does not turn off the light, or if it comes on again shortly after, have the issue checked as soon as possible. Driving for extended periods with this light illuminated can cause significant damage. It is crucial to address the problem promptly to avoid costly repairs. Ensure the oil level is adequate to keep the vehicle running smoothly. |
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Toyota Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning LightThe tire pressure warning light indicates a problem with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). If this light appears on your dashboard, it means one or more tires are underinflated. Once you've checked and reinflated your tires to the recommended pressure, you may need to reset the TPMS to clear the warning light. |
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Toyota Oil Change Reminder Warning LightA yellow oil symbol indicates that the oil needs to be serviced or that the oil level has dropped. You should get the oil changed and ideally replace the oil filter to remove dirty contaminants. A quick fix is to top up the oil levels, but this is not a long-term solution. To resolve the issue properly, have a professional service the oil system. |
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Toyota Electronic Throttle Control Warning LightThe Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) warning light, indicated by a lightning symbol (zig-zag) between two bent lines, signals a malfunction in your vehicle's electronic throttle control system. You should pull over safely and have the issue diagnosed by a trained mechanic. |
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Toyota Forward Collision Warning (FCW) LightA warning light showing two cars following each other with an exclamation point and arrow beneath one of them indicates a potential forward collision. The system has detected a situation where a collision may occur and is alerting you to take action. If this warning light persists, have your vehicle checked by a trained mechanic or authorized dealership. |
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Toyota Brake Pads Warning LightThe Low Brake Pad warning light indicates that your vehicle's brake pads are worn and need servicing. You should have your brake pads inspected and replaced if necessary. The light is designed to alert you to low brake pad levels, which can also cause your brakes to pulse or squeak. It is important to address this issue promptly to ensure your vehicle's safety. |
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Toyota Power Steering Fault Warning LightThe Power Steering or Electronic Power Steering warning light, symbolized by a steering wheel with an exclamation mark, indicates a problem with the vehicle's steering system. This warning light appears in red or yellow/amber, depending on the vehicle model. When this light comes on, you should pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Check the power steering fluid level if your vehicle has a hydraulic system, or consider visiting a professional mechanic if it's an electronic power steering system. |
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Toyota Hood Open Warning LightThe bonnet open warning light indicates that your vehicle's bonnet is not closed properly. You should check and ensure the bonnet is closed correctly. Driving with an open bonnet can lead to more serious issues. |
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Toyota Check Engine Warning LightThe Check Engine Light indicates a problem with the car's motor and emissions system. It could be a minor issue like a loose wire, ill-fitting gas cap, or worn solenoid, or a more serious engine problem. If the light turns on while driving and everything seems fine, don't panic but get the vehicle to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. If the light turns on and the vehicle starts operating erratically or making strange noises, pull over immediately and call for a tow. This indicates a serious problem like a misfire that could damage the engine. Ignoring a blinking check-engine light puts you at risk and could ruin the car's powertrain. Get the vehicle checked as soon as possible to avoid further damage. A steady check-engine light is less urgent but still requires a mechanic's attention. Never ignore this light to ensure your safety and the car's longevity. |
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Toyota Ice Warning LightThe snowflake dashboard warning light indicates that the outside temperature is close to or below freezing, which may cause icy road conditions. When this light appears, drive with caution as road conditions may be more treacherous than usual. |
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Toyota Lane Departure Warning LightThe Lane Departure Warning light indicates that your vehicle is drifting out of its lane without a turn signal. An audible alert may accompany the visual warning. If this light appears, check your lane position and adjust your steering as necessary. |
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Toyota Transmission Temperature Warning LightThe "AT Oil Temp" warning light indicates that your transmission fluid temperature is too high. This could be due to old, degraded fluid or excessive transmission strain. If this light appears, safely pull over and let the fluid cool down before continuing to drive. If the warning persists, there is a problem that needs to be addressed at a dealership or a professional mechanic. |
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Toyota Exterior Light Failure Warning LightThe lamp-out indicator, typically represented by a sun symbol with rays, signals that a vehicle light is not functioning. Check which light is out, such as a headlamp or taillight, to avoid accidents or fines. Replace the burnt-out lamp or bulb as soon as possible to ensure safety. Ensure all vehicle lights are operational to maintain road safety. |
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Toyota Door Open Warning LightThe Door Ajar or Door Open Indicator light is on. Close the open door, boot lid, tailgate, or bonnet immediately and ensure the light goes out. These indicators typically appear in red. If all doors are closed and the light remains on, contact your nearest Toyota service center. |
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Toyota Brake Warning LightThe brake system warning light indicates a potential issue with your vehicle's brakes. If the light remains on when the parking brake is disengaged, it could signal a serious problem. Bring your vehicle to a stop as soon as possible and contact a competent repair shop. Continuing to drive could be dangerous. |
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Toyota Engine Air Filter Warning LightThe engine air filter warning light indicates a blockage in the engine air filter. Replace the clogged air filter as soon as possible to prevent engine performance problems. |
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Toyota Blind Spot Indicator Warning LightThe blind-spot-detection warning light, featuring two cars side by side with a radar effect between them and "OFF" above, indicates that the system is disabled. This system monitors the blind spot area, which is typically out of a driver's field of view. If you did not intentionally turn it off and it remains off after restarting the car, consult a mechanic for assistance. |
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Toyota Headlight On Indicator Warning LightThe dashboard light indicates that your vehicle's entire lighting system is active, ensuring visibility to other drivers and compliance with legal requirements for night driving or bad weather conditions. Check that all lights are functioning properly to ensure safety and legality. |
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Toyota Gearbox Clutch Warning LightThe Gearbox Clutch Warning Light, depicted as a bumpy circle with an exclamation point, indicates a fault in the transmission or clutch system. This warning requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. Apply the parking brake for safety and contact a dealer or authorized service center. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid costly repairs. Do not continue driving until the problem is diagnosed and resolved. |
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Toyota Service Stop Start System Warning LightIf you see the auto stop-start system warning light on your dashboard, it indicates a problem with the system that automatically turns off your engine when stopped to save fuel. This system is designed to restart the engine when you move again. To address the issue, first try restarting your car to see if the problem resolves itself. If the warning light remains on, it's recommended to take your car to a service center for further inspection. |
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Toyota High Beams Warning LightA blue (or sometimes yellow) semicircle with straight lines coming out of its side indicates that the vehicle's high beam headlamps are on. When this light appears, it means the high beam is active, producing a stronger beam of light forwards. You should switch to low beam when facing another road user to avoid glare. To turn the high beam off, move the lever behind the steering wheel forward or backward. |
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Toyota Low Fuel Warning LightThe Low Fuel warning light indicates that your vehicle's fuel level is critically low. You should fill up at the nearest gas station as soon as possible. Typically, this light illuminates when the fuel tank is at around 10% to 15% of its maximum capacity, leaving only one to two gallons of fuel remaining. |
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Toyota Airbag Warning LightThe airbag warning light on your dashboard, typically displaying a passenger with a large circle in front of them illuminated in red, indicates a problem with one or all of the airbags in your Toyota. You should immediately take your car to a trained mechanic or a Toyota dealership for diagnosis and repair. |
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Toyota Electric Parking Brake Warning LightThe Electric Park Brake (EPB) Malfunction Indicator symbol means there is a possible issue with the parking brake system. If the light turns off when the parking brake is released, the system is functioning correctly. However, if it flashes or stays on, the parking brake may not be working properly. If the light continues to flash or stay on while driving, you should visit a service centre as soon as possible. The system should be checked and any necessary repairs should be made to ensure safety. |
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Toyota Turn Signal Indicator LightThe Turn Signal Indicator symbols show that one of the turn signals has been activated. The arrows will flash individually in green when the turn signal switch is used and together with the hazard switch. You should check your surroundings and proceed with the turn or maneuver as intended. |
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Toyota All-Wheel Drive System (AWD) Indicator LightThe AWD warning light on your dashboard indicates a malfunction in the all-wheel drive system. This light can be triggered by low differential fluid levels, issues with the drive shafts, or a faulty wheel sensor. Check the differential fluid level and inspect the drive shafts for any damage; if the issue persists, have the vehicle checked by a professional mechanic. |
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Toyota Electronic Stability Control Warning LightThe Electronic Stability Control (ESC) light flashes when the system is activated due to a slippery road surface and the vehicle nearing its traction limits. When you start the engine, the light should briefly illuminate and then turn off if the system is functioning correctly. If it does not illuminate, have the system checked by a professional. It is recommended to visit a certified dealership or mechanic for this service. |
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Toyota Front Fog Indicator LightThe fog lamp symbol on your dashboard, a semicircle next to wavy lines, indicates that your fog lamps are turned on. These lights enhance visibility in foggy conditions when main headlights are insufficient. You can turn them off using the switch near your steering wheel or headlamp settings. |
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Toyota Immobilizer Warning LightThe immobilizer warning light, typically represented by a car with a lock symbol, indicates that the vehicle's anti-theft system has detected an issue. This often occurs because the vehicle does not recognize the key due to a faulty key, incorrect key usage, or a weak key battery. To resolve this, check the key and its battery, ensure proper key usage, and consider reprogramming or replacing the key if necessary. |
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Toyota Coolant Temperature Warning LightThe engine temperature warning light indicates that your engine is overheating. Open the bonnet and check the coolant level. If the vehicle has been running, wait 30 minutes before adding coolant. Seek assistance from a mechanic as soon as possible. Low coolant levels usually indicate a leak in the reservoir or pipes. It is recommended to have a professional inspect and repair the issue. |
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Toyota Battery Charge Warning LightThe 12V battery warning light indicates a problem with the battery's charging system or alternator. Check the battery and alternator for issues and consider using jump leads or a power pack if necessary. Ensure the battery is properly connected and the alternator is functioning correctly. |
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Toyota Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning LightThe fuel cap warning light indicates a potential issue with the fuel system, typically a loose gas cap. If the light comes on, first check and tighten the gas cap; if the issue persists, consult a trained mechanic to diagnose other possible problems. A loose gas cap or leak in the system can cause pressure issues and erratic engine behavior. |
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Toyota Low Washer Fluid Warning LightThe windshield washer fluid warning light indicates that the washer fluid level is low. You should fill up the reservoir with fluid as soon as possible, following the cap with the same symbol under the bonnet. If the light remains on after filling up, wait a few minutes and then seek professional help if it does not turn off. |
Quick Answers to Your Toyota Dashboard Queries
Got a burning question about a dashboard light? Find instant answers to the most common Toyota dashboard inquiries below. We've distilled complex information into bite-sized, easy-to-understand responses.