What does a light bulb with a cross represent as a fault?
4 Answers
Light bulb with a cross represents the bulb failure warning light. Here are the reasons why the bulb failure light comes on: 1. Self-check process: During the ignition switch activation, the indicator light will illuminate for a few seconds as the vehicle computer performs a self-check, then turn off completely. If it doesn't light up during this process, it may indicate an open circuit in the instrument cluster, requiring immediate repair to avoid affecting fault indication. 2. Indicator lights: Various warning or indicator lights are installed beneath the instrument cluster's faceplate, such as coolant level warning light, fuel level indicator, washer fluid level indicator, charging indicator, etc. Therefore, the instrument cluster serves as a device reflecting the working status of various vehicle systems. Common ones include fuel indicator, washer fluid indicator, electronic throttle indicator, front/rear fog light indicators, and warning lights.
That bulb with a cross icon on the dashboard is no simple matter—I encountered it before on the highway. It happened while driving at night when I suddenly noticed it, and it felt particularly dangerous because it meant one of the vehicle's critical lights had failed. Later, during a check-up at the 4S shop, I learned that this warning light usually indicates an issue with the rear brake lights or license plate lights, and sometimes even the reverse lights. Since designs vary by manufacturer, some cars may also display a text prompt alongside the icon. I remember the mechanic saying that rear brake lights are the most prone to failure, especially for drivers who frequently slam on the brakes. If you see this warning, don’t take it lightly—it’s best to pull over and check immediately, especially when driving at night. In my case, the rear brake light was out, and I nearly got rear-ended.
I just heard the mechanic talking about this warning light during the last car wash. The bulb symbol with a cross on the dashboard is like a reminder to check the external lighting system. The most common issue is a burnt-out reverse light bulb, especially for vehicles frequently driven at night, as prolonged vibrations can cause the filament to break. It could also be poor contact in the turn signal—I once experienced a faulty connection due to oxidation in the turn signal socket. If other warning lights come on as well, you might suspect an issue with the onboard computer. Remember to have all bulbs checked during regular maintenance, especially for cars older than three years. Changing a bulb isn’t actually difficult, but you need to find the right model. Last time, I replaced a brake light bulb myself for just over ten bucks.
In six years of driving, I've encountered the bulb failure warning three times. The crossed-out bulb symbol on the dashboard indicates an issue with external lighting. It could be a faulty tail light, brake light, or license plate light. Last week, my car displayed this warning, and upon inspection, it turned out the right brake light bulb had burned out. When replacing, pay attention to whether the bulb socket shows signs of moisture corrosion - many lighting issues actually stem from poor sealing. Also check if the fuse has blown, as this can save repair time. Remember to inspect the license plate light too; this area is often overlooked but equally important.
