What Does a Circle with an Exclamation Mark Warning Light Mean?
2 Answers
Red exclamation mark (specifically a circle with an exclamation mark inside parentheses) indicates a warning related to the braking system, primarily signaling either a brake system malfunction or low brake fluid level. Solution: Immediate inspection and repair of the braking system is required to prevent accidents. Aside from the red exclamation mark representing brake system faults, all other exclamation marks on a car are yellow, indicating general faults, automatic transmission issues, abnormal tire pressure, or lighting malfunctions. Below is a detailed analysis of these four scenarios: General Fault: A triangle with an exclamation mark inside. If this symbol lights up, it indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's general performance, components, or functions. Common issues include parking sensor failure, fuel cutoff system intervention or malfunction, external light failure, or engine oil pressure sensor malfunction. A visit to a 4S shop is necessary to diagnose and address the fault. Automatic Transmission Fault: A yellow gear with an exclamation mark inside. This is the automatic transmission fault warning light, indicating a transmission issue or transmission fluid level below the normal range. Transmission fluid should be replaced promptly. Abnormal Tire Pressure: A horizontal line under parentheses with an exclamation mark in the middle. This represents the tire pressure monitoring warning light, which illuminates when the tire pressure is too low. Check the tire pressure and restore it to the normal range. Lighting Fault: A yellow bulb with an exclamation mark. This is the lighting fault indicator, signaling a malfunction in one of the vehicle's lights. Solution: Visit a 4S shop for inspection and repair as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can conduct a self-check, focusing on commonly used bulbs such as turn signals, fog lights, and interior lighting to identify the issue.
Last month, I also encountered this warning light with a circle and exclamation mark on the dashboard while driving. After checking, I found out it was the brake system warning light. I was so scared that I immediately pulled over. Later, I realized it was just because the handbrake wasn’t fully released. Releasing and reapplying the handbrake fixed it. However, if the light stays on even when the handbrake is fine, you should check the brake fluid level—it might be too low or the brake pads could be worn thin. The most troublesome situations are brake system leaks or ABS malfunctions. In those cases, never continue driving. I remember once my friend ignored this light and kept driving, only to experience soft brakes and nearly had an accident. In the end, he had to call a tow truck, which cost him several hundred bucks.
