Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (2023)

By getting to know the real meaning of Ford dashboard warning lights, you will be able to diagnose the problem your Ford vehicle might be having and be able to rectify the issue with ease. The following Ford dashboard warning lights reference guide will tell you everything you need to know.

The lights can also flash, which usually means it’s trying really hard to draw your attention to a more serious and time-sensitive problem. If your Ford dashboard warning light is orange or red, this can be a signal that your vehicle is experiencing a problem that should be looked at very soon. Use Ford’s quick and easy dashboard warning light reference sheet to determine what is happening with your vehicle. [Related: How to fix poor Key Fob range]. While it may not be feasible to memorize all of your Ford’s dashboard warning lights meanings, you should at least have a quick reference guide to them. Keep this Ford warning light reference guide handy so you can avoid costly maintenance procedures and inconvenient breakdowns.

Ford F-150 Dashboard Symbols Guide
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (1)

Continue reading before scheduling an appointment at our service center near the Lehigh Valley area. This symbol looks like an exclamation point and the letter P inside two circles and indicates your parking brake is actively engaged.

This symbol looks like an exclamation point and the letter P inside two circles and indicates your parking brake is actively engaged. The best thing to do is immediately pull over to assess the issue before heading to a service center, especially if the light is red. This symbol looks like the letters ABS inside a circle and turns on when your system has malfunctioned or isn't properly working.

(Video) Ford F-150 Dashboard Lights - What They Mean and What to Do

This symbol looks like the letters ABS inside a circle and turns on when your system has malfunctioned or isn't properly working. If it illuminates while driving, it indicates some sort of malfunction, such as low or worn motor oil.

If it illuminates while driving, it indicates some sort of malfunction, such as low or worn motor oil. Understanding your Ford F-150 dashboard symbols is one of the simplest ways to ensure your safety and performance while out on the road.

However, if you see an unknown symbol pop up on your dash, don't hesitate to schedule a service appointment at Ray Price Stroud Ford.

Ford F150 Dashboard Warning Lights
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (2)

If the warning light illuminates or the gauge needle falls below normal operating range, stop the vehicle as soon as possible and switch off the engine. If the engine coolant gauge needle exceeds the normal range, or the warning light illuminates, stop the vehicle as soon as possible and allow to cool.

(Video) Ford F-150: What All Those Dash Lights Really Mean

If the warning light comes on or the gauge exceeds normal operating range, stop your vehicle as soon as possible and ensure airflow to the front grill is not obscured. The ABS warning light illuminating or flashing indicates a failure of the anti-lock braking system.

Typical messages that display along with the wrench warning light are ‘Check 4×4‘ and ‘Electronic Throttle Control‘. If you are having issues with the blind spot monitoring system, it’s possible that dirt, mud or snow is in front of the sensors causing the fault.

In general, you can continue driving with the warning light illuminated, though it’s advised to have the fault rectified as soon as possible to avoid engine damage. Auto engine stat-stop is intended to improve economy and reduce harmful exhaust emission.

What do the Warning Lights on my Ford Mean?
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (3)

If a teeny, tiny engine light starts blinking after you’ve turned your car on, do not pass go, do not collect $200, and do go (slowly) straight to your dealership. This attention-grabbing signal means that your engine could actually be misfiring, having the potential to cause problems with your catalytic converter (it sounds like a big deal, and it is.).

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The presence of this advisory lets you know that you have battery troubles, and, because it is unclear if your car will start again, try to take it straight to your mechanic to avoid a nasty towing bill. When your vehicle detects an issue with one of the airbags, it will tell you by means of a symbol made up of a seated person with a large circle in their lap. There, one of our certified technicians will examine your vehicle, read the error codes from the dash computer and identify the problem.

What Does the Wrench Light Mean on Ford Vehicles?
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (4)

A powertrain malfunction light should be taken seriously, as allowing a serious issue to persist can lead to costly repairs to your engine, transmission, or drivetrain in the long run. You should consider having the car towed straight to an authorized dealer rather than driving if you notice any changes in your vehicle’s performance like engine shaking or reduced power. In cases where you are towing a heavy load and/or driving up a steep grade, a powertrain malfunction light may be telling you to ease off to avoid overheating. It’s possible that your vehicle might enter Fail-Safe Mode shortly after the powertrain malfunction light illuminates.

If this happens, you should only continue to drive as long as necessary to bring your vehicle to rest in a safe location and seek immediate repairs.

Ford F150 Dashboard Lights Not Working
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (5)

The instrument cluster is the control panel for all your vehicle’s gauges and lights, so when it starts to fail, it can cause many issues. The navigation screen goes blank Intermittent power loss Dash lights failing Reading not displayed on Odometer, Tachometer, Speedometer, Fuel gauge, Engine coolant temperature The oil pressure gauge is not reading correctly Dimmer switch not working Circuit board failure.

(Video) 2008 Ford F150 Dash Cluster Fix (Interior Lights Turning on Randomly)

We recommend either you purchase a replacement online with a reputable company like ISS Automotive or you take your vehicle to either a local repair shop or dealer. Finally, a problem with the body control module could also cause the dashboard lights to stop working. If you are unsure of which fuse controls the instrument panel lights, consult the owner's manual for your truck. Cluster lights: These indicate the status of the engine, transmission, oil level, battery, and temperature.

If you have checked the bulbs, fuses, and wires and everything appears to be in working order, the problem may be with the taillight assembly itself. If you have checked all of the above and you are still having problems with your taillights, please consult a certified mechanic or your local Ford dealership for further diagnosis.

For more information about the switches on your specific vehicle, contact Ford motor company or consult your owner's manual.

What Do the Dashboard Lights in Your Car Mean?
Ford F150 Dash Lights Meaning : F150 MECHANIC (6)

The average new car has dozens of computer modules working behind the scenes, a vast network of sensors and hundreds of electrical wires linking all the components. This can include something as simple as a loose gas cap, or a more-serious issue like a misfire, knocking, or a loss of compression, which could result in premature engine wear or failure.

(Video) Ford F150 Battery Dies, Dash Lights Stay On, Park Indicator Light Doesn't Work? DIY Easy Fix.

Acura Alfa Romeo Aston Martin Audi BMW Buick Cadillac Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Ferrari FIAT Ford Genesis GMC Honda HUMMER Hyundai Infiniti Isuzu Jaguar Jeep Kia Lamborghini Land Rover Lexus Lincoln Lotus Lucid Maserati Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercury MINI Mitsubishi Nissan Polestar Pontiac Porsche Ram Rivian Saab Saturn Scion Smart Subaru Suzuki Tesla Toyota Volkswagen Volvo Make Model Year Get Quotes Get Quotes 877-225-7234. Common reasons for an overheating transmission include low fluid levels, worn internal components, as well as high mileage and sustained heavy towing.

It selectively applies the brakes to limit the wheels from slipping during acceleration, and it often engages when driving on icy and snowy roads, wet pavement, sand, and gravel. When your car's forward-collision warning system senses that you're closing on the vehicle ahead of you too fast, you'll see a dramatic flashing red or amber light screaming "Brake.". These systems typically alert the driver by illuminating an icon – two staggered cars separate by waves – in the side mirror closest to the approaching vehicle.

Acura Alfa Romeo Aston Martin Audi BMW Buick Cadillac Chevrolet Chrysler Dodge Ferrari FIAT Ford Genesis GMC Honda HUMMER Hyundai Infiniti Isuzu Jaguar Jeep Kia Lamborghini Land Rover Lexus Lincoln Lotus Lucid Maserati Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercury MINI Mitsubishi Nissan Polestar Pontiac Porsche Ram Rivian Saab Saturn Scion Smart Subaru Suzuki Tesla Toyota Volkswagen Volvo Make Model Year Get Quotes Get Quotes 877-225-7234.

FAQs

What are the 3 main warning lights gauges? ›

There are three kinds of warning lights:
  • Oil Pressure Warning Light.
  • Temperature Warning Light.
  • Battery Low Warning Light.

What are the symbols that light up on the dashboard? ›

10 car dashboard symbols: Do you know what they mean?
  • ABS light. The symbol indicates that the anti-lock brake computer set a code and needs professional diagnosis.
  • Glow plug. ...
  • Fog lights. ...
  • Brake system. ...
  • Door ajar. ...
  • Washer fluid reminder. ...
  • Tire pressure monitoring system. ...
  • Cruise control.
Jan 16, 2019

What are Ford warning signs? ›

If you see a road sign that says "FORD", it means that there is a water crossing ahead. This sign is located at a ford, which is a shallow place in a river that can be crossed by walking or driving. The sign is warning drivers that the ford may be too deep to cross safely.

What is the transmission light symbol? ›

Transmission Warning Light

When this red or yellow transmission warning symbol is illuminated, your car is alerting you that your transmission is overheating. If this warning light turns on, you should immediately stop your vehicle and turn it off when it's safe to do so.

What is the most serious warning light in a car? ›

The check engine light is usually the most serious and feared warning because of the kind of damage it can signal. This warning often indicates the potential for serious engine damage. When ignored, your vehicle could suffer from a blown head gasket or a seized engine.

What is the check engine symbol? ›

The check engine light is one of your car's dashboard symbols – it's an orange engine-shaped icon set amongst your dashboard lights that illuminates to alert you on your car's health.

How do you troubleshoot dashboard lights? ›

Check your dimmer switch to see if your dashboard lights were turned off by accident. Inspect the dashboard light fuse for blackening or a broken filament. Replace the fuse if you notice any damage. Disconnect your vehicle's battery and manually replace the dashboard lightbulbs to get them lit up again.

What is the alternator warning light? ›

The alternator light will either be a battery or an ALT, both can indicate that your alternator isn't working properly. Without an alternator, your battery isn't going to stay charged. During a ride in your vehicle, your alternator recycles energy and charges up your battery.

What symbol means you need an oil change? ›

Engine Oil Level Indicator– This dashboard warning light looks like a lamp with a drop of oil dripping from it. Unlike the first indicator we discussed, this warning light only comes on for two main reasons. One, you have an oil leak and are low on oil because of it. Two, your vehicle is long overdue for an oil change.

What does Ford engine warning light mean? ›

If the check engine light in your Ford starts shining, that means that the problem needs urgent attention and your Ford should be brought in abruptly. This blinking light usually indicates a severe engine misfire allowing unburned fuel to be dumped into the exhaust system.

What is a Ford diagnostic? ›

With a Ford diagnostic device, it becomes possible to quickly locate problems in a vehicle and thus identify flaws. However, which Ford diagnostic equipment is suitable for individuals who want to maintain their own vehicle or properly assess a used vehicle.

Is there a warning light for transmission fluid? ›

When the level of transmission fluid goes down, you will get a warning light on the dashboard. The warning light indicates hotter temperatures than normal of the fluid, and there is a need to get the fluid checked.

What is the light for low transmission fluid? ›

If your transmission fluid gets low enough, the check engine light could pop on. It's important to have this checked out to make sure it doesn't result in any serious damage.

Is there a light for transmission issues? ›

Some models have a specific transmission warning light, while others will have a general “check engine” light that can signal early transmission failure. In either case, you should take your car to a repair shop to check up on those warning lights as soon as they pop up.

When should I worry about dashboard lights? ›

Green: the system is working correctly or is currently in use. Yellow: something is not working correctly - take extra care and check it out as soon as possible. Red: there is a serious, and potentially dangerous problem - stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so.

What does low oil pressure light look like? ›

This light looks like a genie lamp with a drop coming out of the end, but in some models it is a red light that says OIL. Any red warning light that your vehicle displays is an indication that your vehicle needs maintenance as soon as possible to avoid serious damage.

What dash light looks like a fish? ›

The tire pressure light looks like a fish bowl with an exclamation point in the center. This light commonly comes on during the winter months when the temperature drops and the air pressure decreases.

What does a solid yellow check engine light mean? ›

Depending on your car's make and model, a solid yellow or orange light may indicate lower severity. However, it's still a sign that you should make an appointment to diagnose and fix the problem. A flashing check engine light means you should take in your car ASAP.

What do different engine lights mean? ›

Green or blue lights simply let you know that a system is on or operating. Orange/yellow warning lights generally signify that your vehicle needs to be serviced or repaired soon. These warnings are less urgent than if you have a red and/or flashing light. A red light means that you should take action immediately!

What is the most common problem with check engine light? ›

Oxygen Sensor Malfunction

One of the most common reasons your check engine light may come on is that your oxygen sensor is failing. Your local auto repair shop in Western Washington can replace it for you quickly, which will restore your vehicle's ability to measure unburned oxygen in its exhaust system.

What are different warning gauges in a vehicle? ›

The most common additional gauge is the temperature gauge followed by the tachometer, voltmeter and oil pressure gauge. If your car does not have a temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge or charging system gauge, then you will have a warning light for these functions.

What are the most important gauges in a car? ›

Air/fuel ratio gauges. Fuel level gauges. Fuel pressure gauges. Knock gauges.

What do the gauges on my dashboard mean? ›

The minimum number of gauges on a passenger car dashboard are the speedometer and the fuel gauge. The most common additional gauge is the temperature gauge followed by the tachometer, voltmeter and oil pressure gauge.

What is the most important warning light? ›

The check engine light is usually the most serious and feared warning because of the kind of damage it can signal. This warning often indicates the potential for serious engine damage. When ignored, your vehicle could suffer from a blown head gasket or a seized engine.

What are the gauges in my f150? ›

Fuel Gauge: This symbol indicates how much fuel is left in the vehicle's tank. Transmission Fluid Temperature Gauge: This represents the vehicle's transmission fluid temperature. Speedometer: This displays the speed of the vehicle. Tachometer: This shows the engine's rpm.

What are the two most important gauges on the dashboard? ›

While many drivers would consider the two most important gauges on the vehicle the speedometer and fuel gauge, each vehicle is equipped with other gauges that provide useful information on the vehicle's condition while on the road.

What does H and C mean in a car? ›

Temperature Gauge

Your temperature gauge is found in your 'car's instrument cluster. You should be able to pick out the gauge from its defining symbols – a thermometer and the letters “H” and “C” for hot and cold. You may see the gauge fluctuate a little, depending on the day.

What is the L and H on dashboard? ›

Oil gauges look like most indicators on your dashboard. There's a label (typically “OIL”), numbers (ranging between 1-80 or 1-100), and a dial with an indicator needle. Instead of numbers, some vehicles use "L" and "H" to indicate high or low pressure.

What is the difference between gauges and gauges? ›

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary: ”the word gage is a variant spelling of gauge, which in the noun form refers broadly to measurement (“fine-gauge wire”) or a standard by which something is measured (“polls are a good gauge of how voters might vote”).” The Merriam-Webster adds: “Gauge is by far the preferred ...

What alert warning symbol indicates tire pressure? ›

If you're learning about tire pressure sensors for the first time, finding the TPMS indicator on your dashboard is simple. It's a horseshoe-shaped light with an exclamation point in the center.

What are the three most important gauges in a car? ›

The three gauges you'll need are:
  • Boost Gauge.
  • Oil Pressure Gauge.
  • Wideband Air/Fuel Ratio Gauge.

What are the worst lights on dashboard? ›

The Check Engine Light, low oil pressure light, and ABS warning light are among the most serious warning lights that should never be ignored. You're driving down the highway and all of a sudden a warning light pops up on the dash.

What is a danger light? ›

The Danger Light provides a distinctive, narrow, red beam around equipment to promote safety and warn approaching personnel and auxiliary equipment. The Danger Light is commonly installed on large mobile mining equipment like electric rope shovels, hydraulic excavators, and draglines.

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