What Causes the Exclamation Mark to Appear on the Dashboard?
2 Answers
An exclamation mark light on the dashboard is caused by issues such as brake system failure, low tire pressure, or steering system malfunction. Drivers should promptly identify the cause and address it when they see the exclamation mark light illuminated. Brake System Failure: When the light comes on, it indicates severe wear or failure of the brake pads, low or deteriorated brake fluid levels, or a parking brake malfunction. The solution is to check if the brake fluid is insufficient, inspect for leaks at the brake calipers, pipelines, and joints, examine whether the master cylinder or caliper components are damaged, and replace the brake pads if necessary. Low Tire Pressure: The tire pressure light illuminates due to punctures causing air leaks, system-detected excessive tire pressure, or insufficient tire pressure. The solution is to inflate the tires if the pressure is low, following the recommended values. If the pressure is too high, release some air until it reaches the appropriate level. Steering System Malfunction: The steering system light indicates wear in internal components or issues with the electrical or hydraulic circuits. Common symptoms include heavy steering, unusual noises while turning, steering wheel vibration, or poor self-centering ability. The solution is to promptly visit a repair shop for inspection, replace any faulty parts, and check the electrical circuits for proper functioning.
I've been running a repair shop for ten years, and that little exclamation mark on the dashboard is super common. If it's a yellow triangle with an exclamation mark, it's usually the brake system or stability system complaining; if it looks like an exclamation mark wrapped in parentheses, it's most likely a tire pressure warning. There's also a battery light with an exclamation mark—that's the battery crying for help; if the electronic handbrake shows this symbol, the handbrake might be stuck. Once, a young guy drove halfway before the exclamation mark popped up, and it turned out the oil pressure was too low—almost caused engine seizure. If it's red, pull over immediately; if it's yellow, don't delay either—getting a professional device to read the fault codes is the easiest way to go.
