What does the circle exclamation warning light on the dashboard mean?

[EllieAnn]

The circle exclamation warning lights on the dashboard include: 1. A red exclamation mark inside a circle indicates the brake system warning light; 2. An inverted V inside a circle with an exclamation mark refers to the power steering warning light; 3. A circular exclamation mark within yellow brackets indicates the tire pressure monitoring light. Other dashboard symbols include: 1. An oil can-shaped symbol represents the fuel gauge; 2. A SET symbol with an exclamation mark indicates abnormal tire pressure; 3. A WiFi symbol represents the parking sensors; 4. An engine-shaped light indicates engine malfunction; 5. An illuminated ABS light means the anti-lock braking system has a fault.

[StSara]

Last time I was driving, I saw this circle-with-exclamation-point light come on and got really nervous. This light is officially called the brake system warning light, usually indicating an issue with the braking system. The most common causes are the parking brake not being fully released or an electronic parking brake system getting stuck. If the light stays on after stopping and restarting, it's likely due to low brake fluid – possibly from a leaking reservoir or excessively worn brake pads. Another possibility is a faulty ABS sensor, which can give false readings when dirty or due to loose wiring. My advice is to pull over immediately when you see this light, then try repeatedly releasing and reapplying the parking brake. If the light goes off, you're probably fine, but if it stays on, you must visit a repair shop to check the hydraulic system – brake failure is no joke. Never randomly top up brake fluid yourself, as mixing incompatible types can actually damage your vehicle.

[DelAlyssa]

The circle with an exclamation mark is the brake fault warning light, and it demands immediate attention when illuminated. From the manufacturer's perspective, this light has strict triggering conditions: it could indicate low brake fluid level, insufficient hydraulic system pressure, or an electronic parking brake malfunction. Having repaired dozens of such cases, I've found 60% were caused by drivers forgetting to release the parking brake, triggering false electronic system alerts. Among the remaining 40%, most cases involved worn brake pads causing fluid level drops, with a small percentage being fluid leaks in brake lines or master cylinder failures. The troubleshooting process is straightforward: first check if other warning lights (like the ABS light) are also on - simultaneous ABS illumination often indicates sensor issues. Then jack up the vehicle to inspect wheel calipers for leakage signs, and finally connect a diagnostic scanner to read fault codes. For DIY attempts, simply check the brake fluid reservoir dipstick - if below the MIN line, call for a tow truck immediately.

[AndresFitz]

This light indicates an issue with the braking system. With twenty years of driving experience, I've summarized three common scenarios: First, the handbrake isn't fully released, especially when starting on a slope—this is a frequent mistake. Second, insufficient brake fluid, which usually happens if the fluid hasn't been changed for two or three years. Third, a leaking brake caliper on the tire. The solution is simple: Pull over, turn off the engine, wait three minutes, then restart to see if the light goes off. If it stays on, don't drive further—call your insurance company's free towing service for repairs. By the way, this light can falsely illuminate in winter, especially after snow when ice on the wheel hub interferes with the sensor. Pouring hot water on the wheels might solve the problem.

[Isabelle]

As a seasoned driver, I always get nervous when trainees ask about this circle with an exclamation mark. It's directly related to braking safety, and there are two scenarios when it lights up: suddenly illuminating while driving is the most dangerous, possibly a precursor to brake failure—immediately ease off the throttle, turn on hazard lights, and pull over. If it lights up during a cold start, it's relatively better, most likely due to the electronic parking brake not resetting. I remember last year a driver ignored this light and ended up with stiff brakes halfway, nearly causing a rear-end collision. Daily prevention is crucial: open the engine hood monthly to check if the brake fluid is cloudy, and inspect brake pad thickness every 20,000 km. Also, those who've modified brake calipers should note that improperly bled air can also trigger this warning light.