If a dashboard light on your Toyota car has illuminated, either maintenance is required or there is a systemic problem. The light will turn on to notify you of routine maintenance issues like low fuel, an impending oil change, or low air pressure. The dashboard light may potentially signify a more significant problem, such as an engine temperature problem, brake system warning, low oil pressure, or other engine-related problems. To get it checked out as soon as possible, it is advisable to call or make an appointment with a qualified Toyota Service provider, such as Toyota of Bellevue.
The service staff at Toyota of Bellevue are experts in your RAV 4, Corolla, Camry, and any other Toyota car, and they can help to keep it well-maintained and secure to drive. The longevity of your Toyota is dependent on how well you take care of it when maintenance or repairs are required. Toyota automobiles are noted for having some of the longest lifespans available. The Toyota specialists at Toyota of Bellevue can address all of your concerns and assist you in maintaining the performance of your vehicle, whether it is a Tacoma, Tundra, Highlander, or Prius.
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What does the Kia master warning light mean?
The dashboard of your automobile serves as a hub for important data that can help you while you’re driving. When you are driving, the instrument cluster that is just behind the steering wheel is really useful. The car’s control panel, which is intricately wired but clearly displayed, is intended to alert the driver to any potential problems.
The numerous gauges, displays, and lights that make up the dashboard are usually familiar to those who have spent years behind the wheel, but occasionally even seasoned drivers can come across warning symbols that they have never seen before. Let’s discuss some of the warning lights and signs you could encounter while driving.
The dashboard of a Kia is made up of a combination of widely known symbols and indications that are exclusive to the company. The huge gauges keep an eye on basic operations like speed, petrol levels, vehicle mileage, engine temperature, and engine speed (in revolutions per minute). These analog gauges give drivers the fundamental data they need for regular vehicle operation.
These gauges will frequently be the focus of your attention while you are driving because it is typically a very problem-free activity. On the off occasion that something does go wrong, the dashboard is also the first to express any signs of car issue. The cluster has graphics and hieroglyphics that address a variety of topics. It’s crucial to never overlook any signs that appear while driving because some of the lights indicate major problems.
Pay special attention to the dashboard’s symbols’ hues. Green-lit symbols are typically used to indicate the status of a vehicle.
When a certain auto system is engaged, such as cruise control or the eco-driving system, symbols will illuminate in green. The appropriate symbols frequently illuminate to alert drivers who may be unaware when the trunk, car door, or sunroof is open or not closed tightly.
Yellow traffic signals warn of potential dangers and urge vehicles to exercise caution. Yellow light symbols are an advise warning that the vehicle should be inspected when it is safe to do so, even though the problems may not always call for immediate attention.
The TPMS and MIL warning indicators notify drivers of low tire pressure and emission control system problems. The ESC emblem will begin to blink when roads are icy or slick, signaling that the system has started automatically to monitor driving conditions. If the ESC symbol illuminates and remains lit, the system might not be functioning properly, and a checkup at a licensed service facility is required.
A red light indicates a serious issue with the car, such as low fluid levels or an engine issue. It is nearly always a good idea to pull over straight away and take care of the problem if a red light flashes on your dashboard. If you can’t stop, proceed with extreme caution.
Serious concerns, such as issues with the electrical charging system or engine temperature, might have long-term effects on your vehicle if they are not properly resolved. When your car needs more maintenance or its fluids are running low, a master warning will sound. It is advised that you take your vehicle to an authorized Kia service facility to handle red issue notifications.
The first thing you notice when you turn on the ignition is that all of the caution lights briefly illuminate. Kia vehicles are constantly set up to check that all of the indicator lights are operational. These self-inspections guarantee that drivers are constantly informed and up to date on the condition of their cars.
Additionally, the quantity of warning and instructional lights varies frequently depending on the model and trim level. Before driving your Kia, familiarize yourself with the various symbols and their meanings by reading the owner’s manual.
It might be quite harmful to your car to use the dashboard lights (in cases of yellow and red warnings) for a lengthy period of time. For safe and joyful driving, always pay attention to your dashboard and vehicle!
Kia Warning Light Meanings
The illustration below highlights 29 dashboard warning lights. While some of these warning lights simply serve as indicators that a particular feature is engaged, others warn you of potentially more serious problems that may call for immediate action. The following are a few of the most significant dashboard warning lights seen on a Kia vehicle:
- Warning Light for the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
- indicates that the anti-lock brake system isn’t working properly.
- Warning Light for the Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) System
- indicates a problem with the conventional brake system as well as the ABS.
- Check engine light (Check Engine Light, MIL)
- shows a problem with the engine or the emissions control system.
- Oil Pressure Warning Light for the Engine
- demonstrates low engine oil pressure.
- Alarm for the Charging System
- indicates an issue with the electrical charging system or the alternator (battery)
What does an exclamation point in a triangle signify on a Kia?
Our cars have gotten more and more complicated throughout the years as car models have evolved. On-board computers and sensors are used to maintain and monitor vehicle systems in order to achieve dependability and efficiency.
Such complexity always leads to difficulties and mistakes. Dashboard lights and symbols alert the driver to these problems. On occasion, audible sounds may also be used.
Kia dashboard warning lights combine symbols that are well-known worldwide with Kia-specific symbols. The significance or seriousness of the problem is often indicated by the color of the light. Drivers are alerted by green and blue lights when certain systems are in use, such as full beam headlights (blue) or cruise control (green), for example.
Orange, amber, and red symbols in particular, should be observed. An amber symbol will indicate that anything needs to be attended to right away, such as an engine service or a non-urgent issue with the vehicle. Red is used to indicate more urgent situations like low oil levels or hot engine temperatures. Flashing lights and an audible sound indicate a situation that requires quick attention because it could result in injury to the vehicle, the driver, or the passengers.
The warning lights and symbols for Kia dashboards are described below, along with images, an explanation of the symbol, and the proper course of action. The models of Kia dashboard lights on this page include:
Active ECO Indicator
Not available on every model. The ECO indicator becomes green when the active ECO is running. The ECO system is made to reward eco-driving by giving the driver feedback. You can drive as economically as possible with the help of the ECO sign. When driving efficiently, the green indicator turns on. The weather, road conditions, and driving behaviors all affect fuel efficiency.
Kia Air Bag Warning Light
When the ignition is turned to the ON position, the warning symbol will illuminate for around 6 seconds. Light also illuminates when SRS is malfunctioning. We advise having the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer if the air bag warning light does not activate upon starting or continues to illuminate continuously after the engine has been running for six seconds. See Why is the Airbag Light On for more details on airbags and potential issues.
Seat belt warning and chime light
helps to remind the motorist to fasten their seatbelt. Regardless of whether the seat belt is fastened, the seat belt warning light will flash or illuminate for around 6 seconds each time the ignition switch is turned ON.
Immobiliser Indicator Warning Light
not using a smart key system When the immobilizer key is inserted and turned to the ON position to start the engine, the symbol glows. Once the engine is going, you can start it and the light will turn off. Before starting the engine, if this symbol flashes while the ignition switch is in the ON position, it is advised that the system be inspected by an authorized Kia center. utilizing a smart key system Any of the following will cause the immobilizer symbol to turn on, flash, or disappear in a vehicle with a smart key. 1. If the engine start/stop button is in the ACC or ON position when the smart key is in the ignition, the sign will glow for about 30 seconds to indicate that you can start the engine.
However, if the engine start/stop button is pressed without the smart key present, the sign will flash briefly to let you know that you cannot start the engine. 2. It is advised that the system be inspected by an authorized Kia center if the symbol flashes for only two seconds before going out when the engine start/stop button is turned to the ON position with the smart key inside the car. 3. If the engine start/stop button is hit when the battery is low, the sign will flash and you won’t be able to start the engine. On the other hand, you can start the engine by directly depressing the engine start/stop button with the smart key. Additionally, the sign will flash if any components of the smart key system aren’t working properly.
If any door is open when the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the ACC or ON position, the system looks for the smart key. When the smart key is not in the car and any door is opened using the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop, this warning symbol flashes.
Place the ACC or ON button. The chime will also play if all doors are shut for around 5 seconds. While the car is in motion, the light will shut off.
Low Fuel Level WARNING LIGHT
The petrol tank is practically empty, according to the low fuel warning light. Fuel should be added as soon as it starts. When the fuel level warning light is on or the gasoline level is below “O/E, driving can result in an engine misfire and damage to the catalytic converter, if one is present.
EPS (Electronic Power Steering) WARNING LIGHT
When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, the steering wheel exclamation mark (EPS) light turns on and, if everything is working as it should, it soon goes out. We advise having the system checked out by a certified Kia dealer if it illuminates while you’re driving or continues to glow after the engine has started. Although steering might become more challenging, the vehicle can still be used.
AFLS (Adaptive Front Lighting System) WARNING LIGHT
Incorrect operation of the Adaptive Front Lighting System is indicated by the illumination of the AFLS malfunction symbol. Restart the engine and proceed to the closest secure area. If the symbol stays illuminated all the time, it is advised that the system be inspected by a certified Kia technician.
PArking Brake / Brake Fluid WARNING LIGHT
When the parking brake is engaged and the ignition switch is in the START or ON position, this symbol turns on. When the parking brake is removed, the warning light ought to turn off. If the light doesn’t go out, there might not be enough braking fluid in the reservoir. Drive cautiously to the closest safe area in this scenario, where you should stop your car and turn off the engine. If necessary, add fluid after checking the brake fluid level. Look for any fluid leaks near the braking parts. Do not drive the car if leaks are discovered; instead, call a Kia specialist.
EPB (Electric Parking Brake) WARNING LIGHT
When the ignition switch is turned ON, the EPB malfunction light will come on, but it should go out after about three seconds. Have the system checked by a Kia expert if the warning symbol does not illuminate or illuminates intermittently. The EPB error light could
lights to let others know that something is wrong with the ESC when the ESC light (shown below) comes on. If this happens, it is not a sign that the EPB is failing.
ESC (Electronic Stability Control) WARNING LIGHT
When the ignition switch is turned ON, the ESC sign will light up, but it should turn off after about three seconds. The ESC keeps track of driving circumstances when it is engaged. The ESC indicator won’t turn on while driving normally. The ESC will activate and the ESC indicator will blink to show that ESC is activated when a slippery or poor traction condition is encountered. The symbol remains illuminated if the ESC system fails. Contact a Kia dealership in this case.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) WARNING LIGHT
If everything is working as it should, the symbol flashes when the engine is turned on and disappears after about three seconds. If the ABS warning light is on, illuminates while the vehicle is in motion, or does not illuminate when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, there may be an issue with the ABS. Make touch with your local Kia dealership in this case. The anti-lock brake system won’t be present, but the standard braking system will still be functional. See the ABS light’s cause for further details.
ABS / Braking System Dashboard WARNING LIGHTs
While driving, if two warning lights come on simultaneously, it could mean that the ABS and EBD systems in your car aren’t working properly. Your ABS and standard brake system might not function properly in this situation. During rapid braking, a hazardous situation might arise without warning. Avoid driving at high speeds and braking suddenly in this situation. You should get in touch with your local Kia dealer right away. Additionally, the steering effort may increase or decrease, the speedometer or odometer/tripmeter may not function, and the EPS warning light may turn on.
Auto stop indicator DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS
When the engine enters the Idle Stop mode of the ISG (Idle Stop and Go) system, the symbol will light. The auto stop indicator on the cluster will blink for 5 seconds when automatic starting occurs. The indicator appears on the LCD display for automobiles with instrument cluster type B. Some warning lights (ABS, ESC, ESC OFF, EPS, or Parking brake warning light) may briefly illuminate when the engine starts on its own as a result of the ISG system. Low battery voltage is to blame for this. It does not imply that the system is broken.
Battery Charging DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS
An illuminated symbol denotes a problem with the electrical charging system or the generator. If the warning light illuminates while the car is moving, pull over to the next safe area, turn off the engine, and inspect the generator drive belt for damage. If the belt is correctly fitted, there is an issue with the electrical charging system. You should now get in touch with your neighborhood Kia dealership. For more information, refer to Why is the battery warning light on.
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) WARNING LIGHTS
Three seconds after the ignition switch is flipped to the ON position, the low tire pressure indication illuminates. When one or more of your tires are noticeably underinflated, the low tire pressure and position indication turns on. When there is an issue with the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, the TPMS malfunction indication will illuminate after flashing for approximately one minute. You should get in touch with a Kia expert in this circumstance.
Engine Oil Pressure WARNING LIGHTS
This cautionary sign denotes low engine oil pressure. If the symbol appears while you are driving, stop as soon as you can, pull over, and turn off the engine. Once the engine has stopped, check the oil level and add more if necessary. Before starting the car, contact a Kia shop if the warning light is still on after adding oil or if there is no oil available. If the light is still on, you shouldn’t drive any further since the engine could suffer serious damage.
Low ENGINE OIL Level WARNING LIGHTS
When it is time to check the engine oil level, the engine oil level warning light will come on. Check the if the warning light illuminates.
Check the engine oil level as soon as possible, and if necessary, add more if necessary. Use a funnel and the recommended oil as directed in the owner’s manual. (Approximate oil refill capacity: 0.61.0 l) Make that the oil level is not overfilled and is below the F point on the dipstick. After restocking the levels, visit a Kia dealership if the light is still on.
Cruise Control LIGHT Indicator
When the cruise control system is turned on, a symbol lights. Pushing the cruise control ON-OFF button on the steering wheel turns on the cruise indication in the instrument cluster. When the ON-OFF button for the cruise control is pressed once again, the indicator turns off.
Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) LIGHT INDICATOR
If your car has an advanced smart cruise control system, this dashboard warning light will come on when it malfunctions. Have a Kia dealership evaluate your vehicle in this circumstance. The cruise control radar is covered or discolored if the cruise control radar light is illuminated. Identify or get rid of stains.
Cruise SET indicator LIGHT
When the cruise control switch (SET- or RES+) is turned ON, the symbol lights. When the cruise control switch (SET- or RES+) is pushed, the cruise SET indication in the instrument cluster illuminates. When the cruise control cancel button O is pressed or the system is turned off, the cruise SET indication is not illuminated.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Warning Light
The Engine Control System uses this symbol to track various emission control system components. While you’re driving, if this symbol on the dashboard glows, it means that the emission control system may have a problem. When the ignition switch is in the ON position, this symbol will likewise illuminate and will disappear shortly after the engine has started. Contact a Kia dealer if it illuminates while you are driving or does not illuminate when the ignition key is turned to the ON position.
Although extended operation of the vehicle while the Emission Control System Malfunction Indicator Light is illuminated may result in damage to the emission control systems, which may affect drivability and/or fuel efficiency, the vehicle will normally be safe to use. Long-term use of a petrol engine while driving could harm the catalytic converter. After operating the vehicle for a predetermined period of time at speeds greater than 60 km/h (37 mph) or in second gear with 15002000 engine rpm, the malfunction indication light may stop flashing (for about 25 minutes).
Engine Temperature WARNING LIGHT
When the engine coolant temperature rises above 1203C, this dashboard warning indicator turns on (2485.4F). Pull over and turn off the engine as soon as it’s safe to do so if the light comes on. Check the coolant levels after allowing the engine to cool for around 20 minutes. Driving after the engine has gotten too hot can permanently harm the engine. Driving with a hot engine is not advised.
Fuel Filter WARNING LIGHT
After the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the warning light turns on for 3 seconds before turning off. If the gasoline filter has accumulated water, it will illuminate while the engine is running. Engine power (vehicle speed & idle speed) may decrease when the fuel filter warning light illuminates. Constantly operating the car with the warning light on could cause harm to the Common Rail injection system and other engine components. The gasoline filter has to have the water removed. Obtain system maintenance.
Master WARNING Dashboard LIGHT
The Kia master warning light is represented by an exclamation mark enclosed in a triangle. The following conditions are indicated by this warning symbol for the driver: Reduced washer fluid Fuel cap openTPMSBlind Spot Detection (BSD)Service needed. When more than one of the warning circumstances listed above takes place, the Master Warning Light turns on. The master warning light will be switched off once the warning condition is resolved.
Frost WARNING Dashboard LIGHT
The Kia snowflake light serves as a frost/ice indication and alerts drivers to potentially icy road conditions. The snowflake light will often turn on in amber at about 4C (39F), and at colder temperatures, it may turn on in red. The icy road snowflake icon on the Kia usually flashes for 10 seconds before stabilizing, and it frequently comes with a warning sound or chime that many drivers find obtrusive and irritating. Unfortunately, the alarm cannot be turned off.