2013 Chevy Cruze Dashboard Symbols

Understanding Dashboard Symbols and Warning Lights in the 2020 Honda Civic

The 2020 Honda Civic is a standout in the compact car segment, known for its reliability, performance, and advanced technology. For any Civic owner, understanding dashboard symbols and warning lights is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's integrity and ensuring safe driving. Dashboard indicators are your vehicle’s way of communicating its status, alerting you to potential issues before they become serious problems.

Dashboard Layout Overview

The dashboard of the 2020 Honda Civic features a modern design with a digital speedometer and a multi-information display that provides a wealth of information in a straightforward manner. The supply of dashboard symbols is categorized into three general groups:

• Warning Lights: Indicate critical issues that require immediate attention.
• Indicator Lights: Inform the driver about the operational status of systems (like turn signals or high beams).
• Information Displays: Provide details about vehicle performance and maintenance reminders, such as fuel level and trip information.

Common Dashboard Symbols and Their Meanings

Here’s a rundown of the most important dashboard symbols you'll encounter in the 2020 Honda Civic:

• Engine Warning Light:

  • Appearance: An engine outline icon, often with a check mark.
  • Meaning: Indicates a problem with the engine or emission system.
  • Urgency Level: Immediate attention. It's recommended to stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so.

• Brake Warning Light:

  • Appearance: An exclamation mark inside a circle, sometimes accompanied by the word "BRAKE."
  • Meaning: Alerts the driver to issues with the braking system or if the parking brake is engaged.
  • Urgency Level: Immediate attention. Do not drive until the issue is resolved.

• Oil Pressure Warning Light:

  • Appearance: An oil can icon.
  • Meaning: Indicates low oil pressure, which may result from low oil levels or a faulty oil pump.
  • Urgency Level: Immediate attention. Stop the vehicle and check oil levels.

• Battery/Charging System Warning:

  • Appearance: A battery icon with + and - signs.
  • Meaning: Signals an issue with the vehicle's charging system, possibly the battery or alternator.
  • Urgency Level: Schedule service. Driving the vehicle further may result in a breakdown.

• Airbag/SRS Warning Light:

  • Appearance: An outline of a person with a deploying airbag.
  • Meaning: Indicates a fault in the airbag or supplemental restraint system.
  • Urgency Level: Immediate attention. Repair is necessary for passenger safety.

Critical Warning Lights

Understanding critical warning lights helps prevent serious vehicle damage. Here’s a look at some of the most consequential symbols in the 2020 Honda Civic.

• Engine Warning Light: This light means the engine's performance is compromised, necessitating a diagnostic check.

• Brake System Warning Light: This indicates either that the parking brake is engaged or there is an issue with the brake system. If the light remains illuminated, it is crucial to check the brake levels and functionality.

• Airbag/SRS Warning Light: A malfunction here could leave your airbag nonfunctional in the event of an accident, so addressing this warning promptly is critical.

• Battery/Charging System Warning: Frequent driving with this light on can lead to battery failure, resulting in a vehicle that won't start.

• Oil Pressure Warning: Operating your Civic with this warning could lead to severe engine damage due to lack of lubrication, making it an urgent matter.

Maintenance and Service Indicators

Routine maintenance is also highlighted through various symbols:

• Oil Change Reminder:

  • Appearance: An oil can or wrench icon.
  • Meaning: Reminds you to schedule an oil change.
  • Urgency Level: Schedule service soon, though it may not require immediate action.

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS):

  • Appearance: An exclamation mark inside a horseshoe shape.
  • Meaning: Indicates that tire pressure has fallen below optimal levels.
  • Urgency Level: Schedule service to check tire pressures.

• Service Due Indicator:

  • Appearance: A wrench icon, sometimes accompanied by the word "SERVICE."
  • Meaning: Indicates that routine maintenance is due, such as an oil change or other scheduled services.
  • Urgency Level: Schedule service soon.

Driver Assist and Safety System Indicators

The Honda Civic is equipped with advanced safety features, denoted by specific dashboard symbols:

• Traction Control Light:

  • Appearance: A car with tire tracks behind it.
  • Meaning: Indicates that the traction control system is activated to prevent wheel spin.
  • Urgency Level: Informational—no immediate action is needed.

• Stability Control Light:

  • Appearance: A car icon with a zigzag line behind it.
  • Meaning: This light shows when the electronic stability control (ESC) is engaged to help maintain vehicle stability.
  • Urgency Level: Informational.

• Lane Departure Warning:

  • Appearance: A car between two lane markings.
  • Meaning: Alerts the driver when the vehicle drifts out of its lane without signaling.
  • Urgency Level: Informational but requires driver attention.

• Forward Collision Warning:

  • Appearance: A car icon with a triangle symbol in front of it.
  • Meaning: Warns the driver of a potential collision with a vehicle ahead.
  • Urgency Level: Keep awareness heightened and respond accordingly.

What to Do When a Warning Light Appears

When you encounter a warning light on your dashboard, it’s essential to stay calm and assess the situation:

1. Identify the Light: Determine what the light signifies based on the vehicle's manual or this guide.

2. Respond Appropriately: If it's a critical warning (e.g., engine, brake system), stop driving at the first safe opportunity. For less urgent lights (like maintenance reminders), plan to address them at your earliest convenience.

3. Consult the Manual: The owner's manual provides critical information specific to your vehicle's dashboard symbols and how to troubleshoot issues effectively.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Common problems that may arise with dashboard lights include:

• Dashboard Lights Not Working: If multiple lights fail to illuminate, it might indicate a blown fuse. Check the fuse box or consult a technician for further diagnosis.

• Resetting Warning Lights: For lights like TPMS or oil change reminders, refer to the manual for specific reset procedures.

• Dealing with Persistent or Multiple Warning Lights: If multiple lights activate simultaneously, consult a professional as this may indicate more than one underlying issue.

Maintenance Tips

Keeping your dashboard functional requires proactive care:

• Regular Checks: Regularly inspect your dashboard indicators and gauges to ensure all lights function correctly.

• Maintain Mechanical Systems: Address any performance issues immediately. Electrical failures can lead to dashboard warning lights.

• Promptness in Addressing Warnings: Ignoring warning lights can lead to more significant issues; address all warning indications promptly.

Final Words

Understanding dashboard symbols is vital for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your 2020 Honda Civic. Recognizing the meaning of each warning light can make a significant difference in your vehicle's longevity and safety. Always consult your vehicle's manual and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when necessary. With proper attention to these indicators, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy many reliable miles on the road.