If you see an unfamiliar symbol on your Chrysler dashboard, it is important to know what it means before continuing to drive. Some Chrysler dashboard symbols are simply indicators showing that a feature is active, while others warn you about problems involving the engine, brakes, tires, oil pressure, battery, airbags, or other vehicle systems.
This guide explains the most common Chrysler dashboard symbols and meanings, including what the symbols generally indicate, how serious they may be, and what you should do when they appear.
Keep in mind that dashboard symbols can vary by Chrysler model, model year, trim level, engine, drivetrain, and optional equipment. A Chrysler 300 may not have exactly the same dashboard lights as a Chrysler Pacifica or another Chrysler vehicle. Your owner’s manual is the final authority for the exact symbol and warning message displayed by your vehicle.
Chrysler Dashboard Symbols at a Glance
Before looking at individual symbols, understanding dashboard-light colors makes it easier to determine how much attention a warning may require.
| Dashboard Symbol | General Meaning | Typical Color | What to Do |
| Engine-shaped symbol | Check engine/Malfunction Indicator Light | Yellow/Amber | Diagnose the vehicle |
| Oil can | Low oil pressure | Red | Stop safely and switch off the engine |
| Battery | Charging-system problem | Red | Have the charging system checked |
| Thermometer | High engine coolant temperature | Red | Stop safely and allow the engine to cool |
| Brake symbol | Brake-system/parking-brake warning | Red | Check immediately |
| ABS | Anti-lock brake system fault | Yellow/Amber | Arrange service |
| Tire with exclamation mark | Low tire pressure | Yellow/Amber | Check tire pressures |
| Person with airbag | Airbag/SRS problem | Yellow/Red depending on model | Arrange inspection |
| Seat belt | Seat belt not fastened | Red | Fasten the seat belt |
| Skidding car | Electronic Stability Control/traction control | Yellow/Amber | Check the system if it remains on |
| Lightning bolt | Electronic Throttle Control | Red/Amber depending on model | Have the system checked |
| Steering wheel | Power steering warning | Yellow/Red depending on model | Check promptly |
| Fuel pump | Low fuel | Yellow/Amber | Refuel |
| Door outline | Door ajar | Red/Amber | Close the indicated door |
| Blue headlamp | High beams active | Blue | Normal indicator |
| Green arrow | Turn signal | Green | Normal indicator |
| Fog lamp | Fog lights active | Green | Normal indicator |
| A with circular arrow | Auto Start-Stop status | Green/Amber | Check message if system is unavailable |
Important: The exact icon design and color can differ between Chrysler models and years. The descriptions above are general references, not substitutes for the vehicle’s owner’s manual.
What Chrysler Dashboard Light Colors Mean
Red Chrysler Dashboard Lights
Red warning lights generally indicate a condition that deserves immediate attention. Depending on the symbol, you may need to stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
Examples include:
- Oil pressure warning
- Engine overheating
- Brake warning
- Charging-system warning
- Seat belt warning
- Certain steering or system warnings
Do not ignore a red warning simply because the vehicle continues to drive normally.
Yellow or Amber Chrysler Dashboard Lights
Yellow or amber lights commonly indicate a fault, malfunction, caution condition, or system that needs attention.
Examples include:
- Check engine
- ABS
- Tire pressure
- Traction control
- Electronic stability control
- Electronic throttle control
- Service AWD
- Other system-specific warnings
A yellow warning does not always mean you must stop immediately, but you should determine why it appeared.
Green and Blue Chrysler Indicator Lights
Green and blue lights are generally informational. They often show that a feature is active or operating.
Common examples include:
- Turn signals
- Cruise control
- Headlights
- Fog lights
- High beams
- Certain driver-assistance functions
These are normally not fault warnings.
Red Chrysler Dashboard Warning Lights
Oil Pressure Warning Light
The oil-pressure warning symbol usually looks like an oil can with a drop of oil.
If this light comes on while the engine is running, it can indicate that the engine is not receiving adequate oil pressure.
What to do:
- Safely pull off the road.
- Stop the engine.
- Check the oil level if it is safe and appropriate to do so.
- Do not continue driving if the warning remains on.
- Have the vehicle inspected if the problem does not immediately resolve.
Driving with inadequate oil pressure can cause severe engine damage.
This warning is different from an ordinary oil-change reminder. An oil-change reminder indicates scheduled maintenance, while an oil-pressure warning can indicate a potentially serious engine condition.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning
The engine-temperature warning generally resembles a thermometer over waves.
It indicates that engine coolant temperature is too high or that the engine may be overheating.
Possible causes can include:
- Low coolant
- Cooling-system problems
- Radiator or fan problems
- Thermostat problems
- Heavy engine load
- Other cooling-system faults
What to do: Safely stop the vehicle and allow the engine to cool. Avoid opening a hot cooling system because pressurized coolant can cause serious burns.
If the warning remains or the engine repeatedly overheats, the cooling system should be inspected.
Brake Warning Light
The brake warning symbol commonly appears as an exclamation mark inside a circle, although the exact design varies.
It can be associated with:
- The parking brake being engaged
- Low brake fluid
- A brake-system problem
- Another brake-related warning condition
First make sure the parking brake is fully released.
If the light remains on, especially if the brake pedal feels unusual or braking performance changes, stop driving when it is safe and have the braking system inspected.
Battery or Charging-System Warning
The battery symbol usually looks like a traditional automotive battery.
Despite its appearance, this warning does not necessarily mean that the battery itself has failed. It can indicate a problem with the vehicle’s charging system.
Possible causes may include:
- Battery problems
- Alternator problems
- Charging-system faults
- Wiring or electrical issues
If the charging system is not working correctly, the vehicle may eventually lose electrical power after the available battery charge is depleted.
Have the system checked promptly, particularly if other electrical warnings appear at the same time.
Airbag or SRS Warning Light
The airbag warning symbol typically shows a person seated in front of an airbag.
This warning can indicate a problem with an airbag or supplemental restraint system component.
Because airbags and related safety systems are important in a collision, this warning should not be ignored.
Arrange for the vehicle to be inspected according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Seat Belt Warning Light
The seat-belt symbol generally shows a person wearing a seat belt.
It normally means that a seat belt is not fastened.
Depending on the vehicle, an audible warning may accompany the indicator.
Fasten the appropriate seat belt before driving. If the warning remains when the belts are properly fastened, consult the owner’s manual or have the system checked.
Yellow and Amber Chrysler Dashboard Warning Lights
Check Engine Light
The check-engine symbol is usually an engine-shaped outline.
It is also known as the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL).
It can illuminate for many different reasons, including problems involving:
- Engine management
- Emissions systems
- Sensors
- Fuel-system components
- Ignition components
- Exhaust/emissions equipment
- Fuel-cap-related conditions on some vehicles
A check-engine light does not automatically mean that the engine itself has failed.
Steady Check Engine Light
A steady light generally indicates that the vehicle has detected a fault that should be diagnosed.
If the vehicle is running normally, you may not need to stop immediately, but the issue should not be ignored.
Flashing Check Engine Light
A flashing check-engine light is generally more urgent.
It can indicate a condition capable of causing serious damage, particularly if the engine is misfiring.
If the light flashes, reduce driving and have the vehicle serviced as soon as safely possible. If the vehicle is running very poorly, shaking, losing power, or producing unusual sounds or smells, stop when safe.
ABS Warning Light
The ABS symbol generally displays the letters ABS, sometimes inside a circle.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Brake System.
If the ABS light remains illuminated after startup, the vehicle may have detected an ABS fault.
The conventional braking system may still function, depending on the fault, but the anti-lock function may not operate as intended.
Drive cautiously and arrange for the system to be inspected.
Tire Pressure Warning Light
The tire-pressure symbol usually looks like a tire or horseshoe-shaped outline with an exclamation mark inside.
This is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning.
It can mean that one or more tires have pressure below the recommended level.
What to do:
- Check the tire pressure of all tires.
- Inflate them to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- Inspect for visible tire damage or a possible puncture.
- Follow the vehicle’s recommended procedure for resetting or relearning the system if necessary.
Do not assume that resetting the warning without checking the tires solves the problem.
Electronic Stability Control Warning
The Electronic Stability Control symbol often resembles a vehicle with curved or skid marks underneath it.
Depending on the situation, it may indicate:
- ESC intervention
- Traction control activity
- ESC being switched off
- A fault in the stability-control system
If the symbol flashes briefly while driving, the system may simply be intervening because it detected wheel slip.
If it remains illuminated, check the dashboard message and owner’s manual.
Traction Control Indicator
The traction-control indicator may use a similar skidding-car symbol.
It can illuminate when traction control is actively working or when the system has been turned off.
If the indicator remains on unexpectedly, investigate whether the system has been disabled or whether a fault has been detected.
Electronic Throttle Control Warning
One of the more recognizable Chrysler-specific warning symbols is the lightning bolt, commonly displayed between curved brackets.
This can indicate an Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) problem.
Possible symptoms can include:
- Reduced engine power
- Rough running
- Poor acceleration
- Unusual throttle response
- The vehicle entering a reduced-power mode
If the light remains on or flashes, pay attention to any accompanying message or change in vehicle behavior and have the system diagnosed promptly.
Do not assume that the throttle body itself is definitely defective simply because the warning appears. A proper diagnostic scan is needed to identify the cause.
Power Steering Warning Light
A steering-wheel symbol can indicate a power-steering or steering-system issue.
The exact symbol and color depend on the Chrysler model.
If steering suddenly becomes difficult, unusually heavy, or behaves differently, slow down and stop somewhere safe as soon as possible.
Steering-system warnings deserve prompt attention because they can affect vehicle control.
Service AWD or 4WD Warning
Some Chrysler vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive or four-wheel-drive systems can display warnings relating to the drivetrain.
Possible messages or indicators include:
- Service AWD
- Service 4WD
- 4WD Low
- AWD system status
Not every Chrysler has these symbols.
If a service warning remains illuminated, consult the vehicle-specific owner’s manual and arrange diagnosis.
Low Fuel Warning
The fuel symbol generally looks like a fuel pump.
A low-fuel warning simply indicates that the fuel level has reached a low point.
Refuel as soon as practical rather than relying on the remaining range estimate.
Washer Fluid Warning
Some Chrysler models provide a warning when windshield-washer fluid is low.
This is normally a maintenance reminder rather than an indication of a major mechanical failure.
Refill the washer-fluid reservoir using an appropriate windshield-washer fluid.
Door, Hood, or Liftgate Ajar Warning
A vehicle-shaped symbol or dashboard message may indicate that a:
- Door
- Hood
- Liftgate
- Trunk
is not fully closed.
Stop safely and check the indicated opening before continuing.
Driving with a door or hood that is not securely closed can create a safety hazard.
Security or Immobilizer Indicator
A key, lock, or security-related symbol can indicate the vehicle’s security or immobilizer system.
A brief appearance during startup may be normal.
If the indicator remains on or the vehicle will not start, follow the troubleshooting information in the owner’s manual. Avoid assuming that the key itself is necessarily defective.
Chrysler Dashboard Symbols for Driving Assistance
Modern Chrysler vehicles can have additional symbols associated with driver-assistance technologies.
These symbols vary substantially according to model and equipment.
LaneSense or Lane Departure Warning
Some Chrysler vehicles use LaneSense-related indicators to show the status of lane-assistance functions.
Depending on the system and driving conditions, the indicator may show that the feature is:
- Available
- Active
- Providing a warning
- Temporarily unavailable
- Experiencing a fault
Always check the corresponding dashboard message because the symbol alone may not explain why the system changed status.
Blind Spot Monitoring
Blind-spot monitoring can use indicators located in the instrument cluster, side mirrors, or both.
The system can warn when another vehicle is detected in an area that may be difficult for the driver to see.
These are normally driver-assistance indicators rather than signs of an engine or mechanical failure.
Forward Collision Warning
Some Chrysler vehicles equipped with forward-collision technology can display a warning when the system detects a potential collision.
Depending on equipment, the system may provide visual and/or audible warnings and may be associated with automatic emergency braking.
If the system reports that it is unavailable or requires service, consult the owner’s manual.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Adaptive Cruise Control indicators can show whether the feature is:
- Available
- Set
- Active
- Temporarily unavailable
The exact symbol differs between models.
An adaptive-cruise indicator is generally an information/status light rather than a warning that the engine or brakes have failed.
ParkSense and Parking Sensor Indicators
Chrysler vehicles equipped with ParkSense or related parking-assistance systems may display symbols or messages when sensors detect an obstacle or when the system is unavailable.
Remember that parking-assistance technology is designed to assist the driver. It should not replace direct observation of the surrounding area.
Chrysler Indicator Lights and Driving Status Symbols
Turn Signal Indicators
Green arrows normally indicate that the left or right turn signal is operating.
If the arrows flash much faster than normal, check the vehicle’s exterior turn-signal lamps because the system may be indicating a lighting problem.
High Beam Indicator
The high-beam symbol is usually blue and resembles a headlamp with horizontal lines.
It indicates that the high beams are switched on.
This is a normal operating indicator.
Headlight Indicator
A green headlight symbol can indicate that the vehicle’s exterior lighting system is active.
The exact indicator depends on the Chrysler model and lighting configuration.
Fog Light Indicator
A green fog-light symbol indicates that the front fog lights are active on vehicles equipped with them.
Some models may use different indicators or may not have front fog lights.
Cruise Control Indicator
A cruise-control symbol can indicate that the cruise-control system is available, switched on, or actively controlling vehicle speed.
The exact meaning depends on the system and vehicle.
Auto Start-Stop Indicator
Vehicles equipped with an automatic engine stop/start system may display an A surrounded by a circular arrow or a related symbol.
The system may automatically stop the engine under certain conditions and restart it when needed.
An indicator or message may also tell you when the feature is unavailable because vehicle conditions are not suitable.
Snowflake or Low Outside Temperature Indicator
Some Chrysler vehicles display a snowflake symbol when outside temperatures are low enough that icy road conditions may be possible.
This is generally a weather/road-condition warning rather than a mechanical failure.
Even when the symbol is not displayed, road surfaces can still become slippery.
ECO Indicator
Some Chrysler vehicles can display an ECO-related indicator when driving conditions or settings support fuel-efficient operation.
This is generally an informational indicator rather than a warning.
Why Chrysler Dashboard Lights Come On When You Start the Vehicle
It is normal for several dashboard lights to illuminate briefly when the ignition is switched on or the vehicle is started.
This can be part of the vehicle’s initial warning-light and system check.
A typical sequence is:
- The ignition is switched on.
- Various warning and indicator lights illuminate.
- The vehicle performs its initial system checks.
- The engine starts.
- Lights associated with systems that are operating normally turn off.
The important point is that a light appearing briefly at startup does not necessarily mean there is a fault.
If a warning light stays on after startup, or appears while driving, its meaning should be investigated.
What to Do When a Chrysler Dashboard Warning Light Appears
If a Red Warning Light Appears
First, identify the symbol and read any accompanying dashboard message.
For critical warnings such as oil pressure or engine overheating, safely stop the vehicle and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Do not continue driving simply because the vehicle still moves.
If a Yellow or Amber Warning Light Appears
A yellow warning generally means that a system requires attention.
If the vehicle is operating normally, you may sometimes be able to continue driving cautiously, but arrange diagnosis or service as appropriate.
Do not ignore a warning that remains illuminated for an extended period.
If the Check Engine Light Is Flashing
A flashing check-engine light deserves more urgent attention than a steady one.
Reduce driving and have the vehicle inspected promptly, particularly if you notice:
- Engine shaking
- Misfiring
- Significant power loss
- Poor acceleration
- Unusual noises
- Unusual exhaust
- Burning smells
If Several Warning Lights Appear at Once
Several warning lights appearing together can be confusing.
Do not automatically assume that every affected component has failed.
A single underlying problem can sometimes cause multiple systems to report warnings. Electrical or charging-system problems are one possible reason for multiple warnings.
Read the dashboard messages, note which lights appeared first, and have the vehicle scanned if the warnings remain.
Why a Chrysler Dashboard Symbol May Turn Off by Itself
A warning light can sometimes disappear after a condition temporarily clears.
For example, a system may detect an intermittent fault and later determine that the condition is no longer present.
However, a warning disappearing does not always mean that the underlying issue has been permanently fixed.
If a warning repeatedly comes and goes, the vehicle should still be checked, particularly when the warning involves brakes, steering, airbags, engine temperature, oil pressure, or another safety-critical system.
Chrysler Dashboard Symbols by Color: Quick Reference
| Color | General Purpose | Examples |
| Red | Potentially serious warning | Oil pressure, overheating, brake warning |
| Yellow/Amber | Caution, fault, or service required | Check engine, ABS, TPMS, ESC |
| Green | System active/status | Turn signals, cruise control, some lighting |
| Blue | Information/status | High beams and some lighting functions |
Color is helpful, but it should never be used alone to determine whether it is safe to drive. Always identify the actual symbol and read any accompanying message.
Chrysler Dashboard Symbols: Warning Light vs. Indicator Light
Not every dashboard symbol means something is wrong.
A warning light alerts you to a condition that may require attention.
An indicator light usually tells you that a particular function is active.
For example:
- A red oil-pressure light can indicate a serious problem.
- A green turn-signal arrow simply shows that the turn signal is operating.
- A blue high-beam symbol indicates that the high beams are on.
- A yellow tire-pressure symbol indicates that tire pressure should be checked.
Understanding this difference can prevent unnecessary concern while also helping you recognize genuine warnings.
How to Find the Exact Chrysler Dashboard Symbol for Your Vehicle
Because Chrysler dashboard symbols vary between models and years, the most reliable way to identify an unfamiliar symbol is to use your vehicle’s specific owner’s manual.
Look for the manual associated with your:
- Chrysler model
- Model year
- Trim
- Engine
- Drivetrain
Pay attention to the written dashboard message that appears alongside the symbol. In many cases, the message provides more information than the icon itself.
If you are still unsure, a qualified technician can use diagnostic equipment to identify stored fault codes and determine what caused the warning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Chrysler dashboard symbols mean?
Chrysler dashboard symbols provide information about vehicle systems, active features, maintenance conditions, or potential faults. Red symbols generally deserve more immediate attention, while yellow or amber symbols commonly indicate caution or a system that requires service. Green and blue symbols are usually informational.
The exact meanings depend on the Chrysler model and year.
What is the most serious Chrysler dashboard warning light?
There is no single most serious light for every Chrysler vehicle. Warnings involving oil pressure, engine overheating, brakes, steering, or other critical systems can require immediate attention.
If a red warning appears, identify the symbol and follow the vehicle-specific instructions.
What does the red lightning bolt mean on a Chrysler?
The lightning-bolt symbol commonly represents the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.
If it remains illuminated or flashes, the vehicle may have detected an electronic throttle-control problem. Reduced power or unusual engine behavior can occur, so the vehicle should be inspected promptly.
What does the Chrysler check engine light mean?
The check-engine light, also called the Malfunction Indicator Light, means the vehicle’s computer has detected a condition involving the engine, emissions, fuel, ignition, or another monitored system.
A steady light generally requires diagnosis, while a flashing light can indicate a more serious condition requiring prompt attention.
Can I drive my Chrysler with the check engine light on?
It depends on whether the light is steady or flashing and how the vehicle is behaving.
A steady light with normal vehicle operation may allow limited driving to a repair facility, but the cause should be diagnosed.
A flashing light, severe shaking, significant power loss, or other abnormal behavior requires more urgent attention.
What does the ABS light mean on a Chrysler?
The ABS light indicates that the anti-lock braking system has detected a fault or that the system is not operating normally.
The vehicle may still have conventional braking, depending on the problem, but the anti-lock function may be unavailable. Drive carefully and arrange service.
What does the Chrysler battery light mean?
The battery-shaped warning generally indicates a problem with the charging system rather than automatically meaning that the battery itself is defective.
Possible causes include the battery, alternator, electrical connections, wiring, or another charging-system component.
What does the Chrysler oil light mean?
The oil-can warning generally indicates low engine oil pressure.
If it illuminates while the engine is running, safely stop and switch off the engine. Continuing to drive with inadequate oil pressure can result in serious engine damage.
What does the Chrysler tire-pressure light mean?
The tire-pressure warning indicates that one or more tires may have pressure below the recommended level.
Check all tire pressures and inflate them according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Also inspect for punctures or other tire damage.
Why are several warning lights on my Chrysler dashboard?
Several warning lights can appear because multiple systems have detected problems or because one underlying issue is affecting several systems.
Electrical or charging problems can sometimes contribute to multiple warnings. If several lights remain on, have the vehicle diagnosed instead of replacing individual parts based only on the dashboard symbols.
Why do Chrysler dashboard lights come on when I start the car?
Many dashboard lights briefly illuminate during the vehicle’s startup system check.
If the lights turn off after the system check and no warning message remains, this can be normal. A light that stays on after startup should be identified and investigated.
Are Chrysler dashboard symbols the same on every model?
No. Chrysler dashboard symbols can vary according to model year, model, trim, engine, drivetrain, and optional equipment.
The owner’s manual for your specific Chrysler should be used to confirm the exact meaning of an unfamiliar symbol.
Can a Chrysler warning light turn off without a repair?
Yes, some warnings can disappear when the condition that triggered them is no longer detected.
However, an intermittent warning can still indicate a developing problem. If a warning repeatedly appears and disappears, it is worth having the vehicle checked.
Conclusion
Understanding Chrysler dashboard symbols and meanings can help you distinguish between a normal driving indicator and a warning that needs immediate attention.
Red warnings such as oil pressure, overheating, and certain brake warnings can require you to stop safely. Yellow or amber symbols such as check engine, ABS, TPMS, and stability-control warnings generally indicate that a system needs attention or diagnosis. Green and blue indicators usually show that a feature or lighting function is active.
The most important thing to remember is that Chrysler dashboard symbols are not identical across every model and model year. If you see an unfamiliar symbol, identify the icon, read the accompanying dashboard message, and check the owner’s manual for your exact vehicle.
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