What does it mean when a bulb with an exclamation mark appears on the dashboard?
2 Answers
A yellow bulb with an exclamation mark is the light fault indicator, indicating that there is a malfunction with one of the vehicle's lights. Solution: Visit a 4S shop for inspection and repair as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can perform a self-check, focusing on commonly used bulbs such as turn signals, fog lights, and interior lighting to identify the issue. The exclamation mark is a common fault indicator in vehicles. Besides the yellow bulb with an exclamation mark, there are four other forms of exclamation mark indicators: an exclamation mark inside a triangle, an exclamation mark inside a yellow gear, an exclamation mark inside a circle with brackets, and an exclamation mark with a horizontal line under brackets. Below is a detailed analysis: General Fault: An exclamation mark inside a triangle. If this symbol lights up, it indicates a malfunction with the vehicle's general performance, components, or functions. Possible issues include parking sensor failure, fuel cut-off system intervention or malfunction, external light failure, or engine oil pressure sensor failure. It is necessary to visit a 4S shop for inspection to identify the source of the fault. Automatic Transmission Fault: An exclamation mark inside a yellow gear. This is the automatic transmission fault warning light, indicating a malfunction in the transmission or transmission lubricant level below the normal range. Transmission fluid should be replaced promptly. Brake System Fault: An exclamation mark inside a circle with brackets. This represents a brake system warning, primarily indicating a malfunction in the brake system or low brake fluid level. Immediate inspection and repair of the brake system are required to avoid accidents. Tire Pressure Anomaly: An exclamation mark with a horizontal line under brackets. This represents the tire pressure monitoring warning light, which lights up when the vehicle's tire pressure is too low. Check the tire pressure and restore it to the normal range.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have seen this bulb icon with an exclamation mark warning light many times. It usually indicates an issue with your exterior lights, such as brake lights, tail lights, turn signals, or license plate lights not working. The first time I encountered it, I thought it was a minor problem and ignored it, only to be stopped by traffic police and fined because it can cause rear-end collisions. If you want to check it yourself, turn off the engine and ask a friend to step on the brake pedal to see if the lights come on. If the lights don't work, it's likely a burnt-out bulb or a blown fuse—just open the fuse box near the driver's seat and replace the corresponding fuse according to the manual. Loose wiring or relay failure can also trigger this light, so if you're a beginner, it's safer to take it to a proper repair shop. Regularly checking your lights during car washes or refueling can prevent major issues—don't forget the maintenance manual recommends checking every six months. Safety first when driving!
