Can You Identify a Car by Its Dashboard?
2 Answers
No, but you can determine the car model by the markings on the original parts. The functions of the vehicle dashboard are as follows: 1. Door Indicator Light: Indicates whether the doors are fully closed. The corresponding light turns on when a door is open or not properly closed, alerting the owner that the door is not shut. The light turns off once the door is closed. 2. Parking Brake Indicator Light: This light turns on when the parking brake lever (handbrake) is engaged. It turns off automatically when the handbrake is released. In some models, this light may also indicate low brake fluid. 3. Battery Indicator Light: Shows the working status of the battery. It lights up when the ignition is turned on and turns off after the engine starts. If it doesn't light up or stays on continuously, the generator and circuit should be checked immediately. 4. Fuel Indicator Light: Alerts the driver when fuel is low. When this light turns on, it indicates that the fuel is nearly depleted, and the vehicle can typically travel about 50 kilometers before running out of fuel. 5. Washer Fluid Indicator Light: Displays the level of windshield washer fluid. If the fluid is running low, this light turns on, prompting the owner to refill the washer fluid. The light turns off after the fluid is replenished. 6. Throttle Indicator Light: Commonly found in Volkswagen models, the EPC light turns on for a few seconds during the vehicle's self-check and then turns off. If a fault occurs, this light stays on, indicating that immediate inspection and repair are needed.
As a car enthusiast, I often identify different models by their dashboard designs, which is really fascinating. BMW dashboards typically feature classic orange backlighting with the speedometer in the center layout, giving an instant sporty vibe. Audi's virtual cockpit integrates navigation into a large screen, feeling very modern. At the last auto show, I successfully guessed several cars this way, though modified ones can be confusing—like when someone replaces an old Toyota's analog gauges with digital instruments, leading to misidentification. Overall, brand design styles are good clues, but it's best to cross-check with logos or grilles to avoid mistakes. This skill also helps used car buyers quickly spot whether the equipment is original.
