What Does the Light On My Dashboard Mean?

Dashboard warning lights should never be ignored. However, if you don’t know what your vehicle is trying to tell you, you might be tempted to put off much-needed service! On the other hand, some dashboard warning lights simply indicate the use of a feature, and don’t require any action on your part. So, what does the light on your dashboard mean? Consult our guide and schedule service today.

Dashboard Warning Light Meanings

The best way to get familiar with your dashboard warning light meanings is to consult the information in your owner’s manual, but our quick reference guide can be of great help in a pinch. Here, we’ve highlighted some of the most important and most common Mercedes-Benz dashboard symbols:

Engine System Warning Lights

• Coolant Temp Warning – Improper coolant levels and problems with your radiator may be indicated by the coolant temperature warning light. Keep an eye on your vehicle’s temperature gauge, too.
• Check Engine – This familiar warning light indicates an issue with your engine management or fuel injection systems. Check your gas cap before scheduling service.
• Reduced Power Warning – If you receive a warning that says your engine’s power has been reduced, you’re probably facing a problem with your throttle system. Schedule service before the problem becomes even more serious.

Warning Lights for Your Braking and Steering Systems:

• ABS System – When the ABS light comes on, your ESP® (Electronic Stability Program), BAS® (Brake Assist), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) features are not functioning. Get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible.
• Power Steering – If you see a steering wheel next to an exclamation point, your power steering system isn’t working properly. 
• Brake Wear – If you see a circle surrounded by broken parentheticals, you should change your brake pads as soon as you can.

Informative Warning Lights:

• Mercedes-Benz Service Indicator – A wrench on your dashboard is an indication that it’s time to schedule service.
• ATTENTION ASSIST® – If you see a light that looks like a steaming cup on a saucer, your ATTENTION ASSIST® system is telling you that you should take a break.
• Security Alert – A general security alert will keep you informed of a wide range of problems. If you see this warning light, check your ignition switch and your doors to make sure that everything is working as it should.
• Cruise Control – The cruise control light does not indicate any deeper issue. It simply means that your cruise control is currently on and engaged. 
• Light Bulb – The light bulb warning light indicates that one or more of your exterior lights is not working.
• Fog Lamp – This light comes on whenever your headlights are engaged. It may change color to indicate the use of your brights.
• Washer Fluid Reminder – Check your windshield wiper fluid reservoir and make sure that your levels are where they should be.
• Airbag Fault – A fault with your airbag system should be dealt with as soon as possible. Bring your vehicle in for repairs.

Tires Warning Lights: 

• Tire Pressure Warning Light– Your vehicle includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System. If you see a light that looks a little bit like a flat tire, check the pressure for each of your tires, including any spare. 

Keeping up with the Mercedes-Benz service schedule can help you avoid the vast majority of potential issues, but problems may still arise on occasion. We’re here to help whenever one of your Mercedes-Benz dashboard lights turns on.

Our Service Experts are Here to Help!

Still not sure what the light on your dashboard means? Contact our service team or give us a call at (866) 285-4034. We’ll provide an immediate answer and recommend your next steps. No matter which issue you’re facing, you can benefit by exploring our Mercedes-Benz parts and service specials before you stop in.