85+ Acura Dashboard Symbols: Complete Guide to Warning Lights

Acura dashboard symbols help you understand your vehicle’s condition and alert you to potential problems. From the check engine light to tire pressure warnings, each symbol has a specific meaning. If you see an unfamiliar light on your dashboard, knowing what it means can help you decide whether you can continue driving or need to take action.

Some Acura dashboard symbols indicate routine maintenance, while others warn you about serious issues involving the engine, brakes, battery, or safety systems. Red warning lights often require immediate attention, whereas yellow or amber lights usually indicate a problem that should be checked soon. Understanding these differences can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your Acura running smoothly.

In this guide, you’ll learn the meanings of common Acura dashboard symbols, including warning lights, indicator lights, and maintenance alerts. Whether you drive an Acura MDX, RDX, TLX, or another model, this information will help you recognize important dashboard warnings and understand when to seek professional assistance. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact meaning of a symbol in your specific model and year.

Acura Dashboard Symbols and Meanings

The following table explains common Acura dashboard symbols, their meanings, and the actions you should take.

Acura Dashboard Symbol	Meaning	What You Should Do
Oil Pressure Light	Low engine oil pressure	Stop safely and turn off the engine.
Brake Warning Light	Parking brake engaged or brake system problem	Release the parking brake and check whether the light remains on.
Battery Light	Charging system problem	Stop safely and arrange assistance if necessary.
Check Engine Light	Engine or emissions system problem	Arrange a diagnostic check.
ABS Light	Anti-lock braking system fault	Drive cautiously if conventional braking remains normal.
Tire Pressure Light	Low tire pressure or TPMS fault	Check tire pressures and inspect the tires.
Airbag Light	Airbag or restraint system fault	Arrange an inspection.
VSA Light	Stability control activity or system fault	Check the dashboard message.
EPS Light	Electric power steering problem	Stop safely if steering becomes difficult.
Temperature Warning Light	Engine overheating	Stop safely and turn off the engine.
Seat Belt Light	Seat belt not fastened	Fasten the seat belt.
Door-Open Light	A door, trunk, or tailgate is open	Close it securely.
Low Fuel Light	Fuel level is low	Refuel soon.
Wrench Symbol	Maintenance reminder	Check the Maintenance Minder.
Blue High-Beam Light	High-beam headlights are on	Switch to low beams when appropriate.
Green Turn Signal	Turn signal is active	Check that the signals work normally.
ECON Indicator	ECON mode is active	No action is usually needed.
Key Warning Light	Key recognition or keyless access issue	Check the key fob and dashboard message.
Washer Fluid Light	Washer fluid may be low	Refill the washer fluid reservoir.
LKAS Indicator	Lane Keeping Assist System status	Check the display for system information.
ACC Indicator	Adaptive Cruise Control status	Follow the displayed system instructions.
CMBS Warning	Collision Mitigation Braking System issue	Check the warning message and owner’s manual.
BSI Indicator	Blind Spot Information system status	Check mirrors and surroundings before changing lanes.

These meanings are general. Symbols and warning procedures can differ between Acura models, model years, and trims.

Red Acura Dashboard Warning Lights

Red Acura dashboard lights can indicate serious problems that need immediate attention. However, some red indicators, such as the seat belt reminder, simply show that a feature or safety requirement needs attention.

Red Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

The engine oil pressure warning light usually looks like a red oil can. It indicates that the engine may not be receiving enough oil pressure to lubricate its moving parts.

Low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage if you continue driving.

• Pull over as soon as it is safe.
• Turn off the engine.
• Check the oil level when it is safe to do so.
• If the warning remains on, arrange professional assistance.

A normal oil level does not guarantee that oil pressure is adequate. If the warning stays on, don’t continue driving.

Red Brake Warning Light

The red BRAKE light may indicate that the parking brake is engaged, brake fluid is low, or the braking system has a problem.

Release the parking brake completely and check whether the warning disappears. If it remains illuminated, consult your owner’s manual.

If the brake pedal feels soft, braking performance changes, or another serious brake warning appears, stop safely and seek assistance.

Acura Battery Warning Light

The battery-shaped warning light usually indicates a charging system problem. Possible causes include an alternator fault, a weak battery, damaged wiring, or another electrical issue.

If the light appears while driving, the vehicle may eventually lose electrical power. Stop safely and arrange assistance if necessary. The warning doesn’t automatically mean that the battery needs replacing.

Acura Engine Temperature Warning Light

The engine temperature warning light may indicate that your Acura is overheating. Depending on the model, it may appear as a thermometer symbol or a dashboard message.

If the engine overheats, continuing to drive can cause serious damage.

1. Stop safely.
2. Turn off the engine when the warning indicates overheating.
3. Allow the engine to cool.
4. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual.
5. Arrange service if the warning returns.

Never remove a hot radiator cap because pressurized coolant can cause serious burns.

Acura Airbag Warning Light

The airbag or SRS warning light indicates a possible problem with the supplemental restraint system. This system may include airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and related sensors.

If the light stays on after the normal startup check, arrange an inspection. A fault may prevent part of the restraint system from working correctly during a crash.

Acura Seat Belt Warning Light

The seat belt indicator usually means that a driver or passenger needs to fasten a seat belt. Some vehicles may also display a reminder when an occupied seat has an unfastened belt.

Fasten all seat belts before driving. If the warning remains on despite properly fastened belts, check the owner’s manual for troubleshooting instructions.

Yellow and Amber Acura Dashboard Warning Lights

Yellow and amber dashboard symbols usually indicate a fault, a maintenance need, or a system that requires attention. Some allow you to continue driving cautiously, but the correct response depends on the warning.

Acura Check Engine Light

The check engine light looks like an engine outline. It can indicate a problem with the engine management system, emissions equipment, fuel system, or ignition system.

A steady light generally means you should arrange a diagnostic check. If the light flashes, it may indicate an engine misfire that can damage the catalytic converter.

If the light flashes or the engine shakes, loses power, or runs roughly, reduce engine load and stop safely when necessary. A diagnostic scan can help identify the problem.

Acura Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

The TPMS symbol looks like a flat tire with an exclamation mark. It usually indicates that one or more tires have low pressure.

Low tire pressure can affect handling, increase tire wear, and reduce fuel efficiency.

• Check all tires when cold.
• Inflate them to the recommended pressures listed on the driver’s door-jamb label.
• Inspect the tires for visible damage.
• Follow the owner’s manual if the system requires calibration.

If the light flashes and then remains on, the tire pressure monitoring system may have a fault. Don’t ignore a tire that appears flat or damaged.

Acura Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Light

The ABS symbol usually displays the letters ABS inside a circle. It indicates a possible problem with the anti-lock braking system when it stays illuminated after startup.

ABS helps prevent the wheels from locking during hard braking. If the system has a fault, conventional braking may still work, but anti-lock assistance may be unavailable.

Drive cautiously if the brakes feel normal and no other serious warning appears. Arrange an inspection as soon as possible. If the red brake warning also appears or braking performance changes, stop safely and seek assistance.

Acura Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) Light

Vehicle Stability Assist helps your Acura maintain traction and stability when the wheels begin to slip.

A flashing VSA indicator may mean the system is actively helping control wheel slip. A steady warning may indicate that the system is switched off or has a fault, depending on the model.

Check the dashboard message and make sure the system hasn’t been switched off unintentionally. If the warning remains on, consult your owner’s manual.

Acura Electric Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light

The EPS warning light indicates a possible problem with the electric power steering system. You may notice that the steering wheel becomes harder to turn.

If steering becomes unexpectedly difficult, stop safely and arrange assistance. If the warning remains on but steering feels normal, consult the owner’s manual and arrange an inspection.

Acura Maintenance Minder Wrench Symbol

The wrench symbol commonly indicates that scheduled maintenance is due or approaching. It doesn’t necessarily mean that a sudden mechanical failure has occurred.

Depending on the model, the display may show remaining oil life and maintenance codes. Check those details to identify the required service.

Reset the maintenance reminder only after completing the required maintenance and following the correct procedure for your Acura.

Acura Key Warning Light

A key-related warning may indicate that the vehicle cannot detect the remote key or that the keyless access system has a problem.

Make sure the correct key fob is inside the vehicle. If the warning suggests a weak battery, check the key fob battery and follow your owner’s manual instructions.

The exact starting procedure and key warning symbols vary by model.

Acura Washer Fluid Warning Light

The washer fluid symbol usually indicates that the windshield washer fluid level is low.

Refill the reservoir with suitable windshield washer fluid. If the warning remains on after refilling, the level sensor or related system may need inspection.

Green and Blue Acura Dashboard Indicator Lights

Green and blue indicators generally show that a vehicle feature is active or selected. They usually don’t indicate fault by themselves.

Green Turn Signal Indicator

Green arrows flash when you activate the left or right turn signal. If an arrow flashes unusually fast, a turn signal bulb or lighting circuit may have a problem.

Check the exterior lights when it is safe to do so.

Blue High-Beam Indicator

The blue headlight symbol means your high-beam headlights are on. High beams provide additional visibility on dark roads when there is no nearby traffic.

Switch to low beams when approaching other vehicles or following another driver closely to avoid causing glare.

Cruise Control Indicator

The cruise control indicator shows the status of the cruise control system. Depending on your Acura model, one symbol may indicate that the system is switched on, while another shows that a speed has been set.

Adaptive Cruise Control may display additional information about the selected following distance.

Remain attentive and ready to brake whenever cruise control is active.

Acura ECON Mode Indicator

The ECON indicator appears on Acura models equipped with ECON mode. This setting adjusts certain vehicle systems to support fuel-efficient driving.

When the indicator is active, ECON mode is enabled. You usually don’t need to take any action unless you want to change the driving mode.

Acura Auto Idle Stop Indicator

Some Acura models have an Auto Idle Stop system that temporarily shuts off the engine when the vehicle stops under suitable conditions.

The indicator may show that the system is active, unavailable, or temporarily disabled. If a fault message appears, consult your owner’s manual.

Acura Dashboard Symbols for Driver Assistance Systems

Many Acura vehicles include driver-assistance features that use cameras, radar, or other sensors. Their symbols show whether a feature is active, available, or reporting a problem.

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Symbol

The LKAS indicator relates to the Lane Keeping Assist System. On equipped vehicles, the system can help the driver maintain the vehicle’s position within detected lane markings under suitable conditions.

The indicator may show that the system is selected, ready, active, or unavailable.

If a warning appears, check the dashboard message. Poor weather, obstructed cameras, and unclear lane markings can affect system operation.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Symbol

Adaptive Cruise Control helps maintain a selected speed and following distance from a vehicle ahead when conditions allow.

The dashboard may show the system status, set speed, or following-distance setting. If the system becomes unavailable, control your speed and following distance manually.

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) Warning

The CMBS warning relates to Acura’s Collision Mitigation Braking System. On equipped models, this feature can warn the driver about certain potential frontal collisions and may provide braking assistance.

If the system reports a fault or remains unavailable, check the owner’s manual and arrange an inspection if needed.

Blind Spot Information (BSI) Indicator

The Blind Spot Information system can alert you to vehicles detected in designated blind spots. Depending on your Acura model, the warning may appear near a side mirror or in the instrument display.

Check your mirrors and look over your shoulder before changing lanes. The system is a driving aid, not a replacement for checking traffic yourself.

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) Symbol

Road Departure Mitigation can help warn you when your vehicle appears to be leaving a detected roadway under certain conditions. Depending on the model, it may also provide steering or braking assistance.

If the system becomes unavailable, check the dashboard message and consult your owner’s manual.

Acura Dashboard Symbols by Model

Acura dashboard displays vary by model, year, and trim. Use the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle to confirm the meaning of each indicator.

Acura MDX Dashboard Symbols

The Acura MDX may display engine, oil pressure, battery, brake, tire pressure, ABS, VSA, and airbag warnings. Depending on its year and equipment, it may also include indicators for adaptive cruise control, lane assistance, and collision mitigation.

Acura RDX Dashboard Symbols

The Acura RDX uses symbols for engine performance, maintenance, tire pressure, braking, and safety systems. Available driver-assistance features may add indicators for lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Acura TLX Dashboard Symbols

The Acura TLX may display warning lights for the engine, charging system, brakes, tire pressure, and restraint systems. Other indicators depend on the installed safety and driving features.

Acura Integra Dashboard Symbols

The Acura Integra includes dashboard indicators for vehicle systems, maintenance reminders, and available driver-assistance features. The exact symbols depend on the model year and trim.

Acura ILX Dashboard Symbols

The Acura ILX uses familiar warning symbols for the engine, braking, tire pressure, charging system, and safety restraints. Consult the manual for your specific year to identify the correct warning procedures.

What Do Flashing and Solid Acura Dashboard Lights Mean?

A dashboard light’s behavior can be as important as its color. Some indicators flash during normal operation, while others flash to signal a fault.

Warning Light	Possible Meaning
Flashing check engine light	Possible engine misfire
Solid check engine light	Engine or emissions system fault
Flashing TPMS light followed by a solid light	Possible tire pressure monitoring system fault
Flashing VSA indicator	Stability or traction control may be active
Flashing turn signal arrow	Normal turn signal operation
Oil pressure light that stays on	Possible low engine oil pressure
Warning light that remains on after startup	Possible system fault if the light should normally turn off

These are general guidelines. Your owner’s manual provides the correct interpretation for your vehicle.

Why Won’t My Acura Dashboard Warning Light Turn Off?

An Acura warning light may remain on because the underlying problem hasn’t been fixed, a sensor has failed, or a maintenance reminder hasn’t been reset after service.

Common reasons include:

• The original problem remains unresolved.
• A tire pressure monitoring system needs attention.
• A sensor or electrical component has failed.
• Scheduled maintenance is due.
• A driver-assistance feature is switched off or unavailable.

Don’t reset a warning simply to make it disappear. Identify the cause first, and follow the correct repair or maintenance procedure.

How to Reset Acura Dashboard Warning Lights

The correct reset procedure depends on the warning. Some lights turn off automatically when the problem is corrected, while others require a repair or a specific maintenance procedure.

Resetting the Tire Pressure Warning

1. Check all tires when cold.
2. Inflate them to the recommended pressures.
3. Inspect for punctures or visible damage.
4. Follow the owner’s manual instructions for TPMS calibration, if required.
5. Arrange an inspection if the warning persists or flashes.

Resetting the Maintenance Minder

Reset the Maintenance Minder only after completing the required service. Check the maintenance codes and follow your owner’s manual for the correct reset procedure.

Resetting the reminder without performing the maintenance can make it harder to track future service needs.

Resetting Engine and Safety System Warnings

Check engine, ABS, airbag, brake, and steering warnings may require diagnostic testing and repair before they turn off.

Avoid using a generic reset method to hide a safety warning. If the underlying fault remains, the system may not work correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acura Dashboard Symbols

What Is the Most Serious Acura Dashboard Warning Light?

The oil pressure warning, serious brake system warning, and engine overheating warning are among the most urgent. Stop safely and follow your owner’s manual when one appears. A flashing check engine light also requires prompt attention.

What Does the Yellow Triangle Mean on an Acura Dashboard?

A yellow triangle with an exclamation mark often indicates a general warning. Check the accompanying dashboard message and owner’s manual to identify the specific issue.

What Does the Red Battery Symbol Mean on an Acura?

The red battery symbol usually indicates a charging system problem. The battery, alternator, wiring, or another charging component may need inspection.

Can I Drive My Acura With the Check Engine Light On?

A steady check engine light may allow cautious driving if the vehicle runs normally. If the light flashes, the engine runs roughly, or the vehicle loses power, stop safely and arrange assistance.

What Does the Exclamation Mark Mean on an Acura Dashboard?

An exclamation mark can appear in different symbols, including the tire pressure warning and general warning indicators. Check the complete symbol and dashboard message to identify its meaning.

Why Is My Acura Dashboard Showing a Car With Wavy Lines?

A car with wavy lines commonly relates to traction or stability control. A flashing indicator may mean the system is actively helping maintain traction. A steady warning may indicate that the system is switched off or has a fault.

What Does the Wrench Symbol Mean on an Acura?

The wrench symbol commonly indicates that scheduled maintenance is due or approaching. Check the Maintenance Minder display for service codes and follow your owner’s manual.

Where Can I Find the Exact Acura Dashboard Symbol for My Car?

Visit the official Acura Owners website and select your model and year to find the appropriate owner’s manual.

Conclusion

Acura dashboard symbols help you recognize vehicle warnings, maintenance needs, and active features. Red oil pressure, brake, and temperature warnings may require immediate action, while amber indicators often call for diagnosis or inspection. Green and blue indicators generally show that a feature is active.

When an unfamiliar symbol appears, check its color, shape, flashing behavior, and accompanying dashboard message. Use the owner’s manual for your specific Acura model before attempting a reset. Responding correctly to warning lights can help protect your vehicle and keep you safe on the road.