What does the exclamation mark inside a gear indicate as a fault code?
2 Answers
An exclamation mark inside a gear is the automatic transmission fault warning light, indicating that there is a fault in the transmission or the transmission lubricant is below the normal range. It is necessary to replace the transmission oil promptly. The exclamation mark is a common fault warning in cars. Besides the exclamation mark inside a gear, there are four other forms of exclamation marks: an exclamation mark inside a triangle, an exclamation mark inside a circle with brackets, an exclamation mark with a horizontal line below brackets, and a yellow bulb with an exclamation mark. Below is a detailed analysis of these four situations: General faults: An exclamation mark inside a triangle. If this symbol lights up, it indicates a fault in the car's general performance or components and functions. Main issues include parking sensor failure, fuel cut-off system intervention or failure, external light failure, engine oil pressure sensor failure, etc. It is necessary to visit a 4S shop for inspection to identify the source of the fault. Brake system fault: An exclamation mark inside a circle with brackets. This represents a warning for the brake system, mainly indicating a brake system failure or low brake fluid level. The brake system should be inspected immediately to avoid accidents. Tire pressure abnormality: An exclamation mark with a horizontal line below brackets. This represents the tire pressure monitoring warning light, which lights up when the car's tire pressure is too low. Check the car's tire pressure and restore it to the normal range. Lighting fault: A yellow bulb with an exclamation mark. This is the lighting fault indicator, indicating a fault in the car's lights. Solution: Visit a 4S shop for inspection and repair as soon as possible, or conduct a self-inspection, focusing on commonly used bulbs such as turn signals, fog lights, and interior lighting, to identify the problem.
I've been driving for almost twenty years, and I've seen that gear with an exclamation mark icon many times. It's telling you there's a problem with the transmission. Common causes include high oil temperature, especially when driving on highways or climbing hills in summer; insufficient transmission oil, possibly due to a leak underneath; or a malfunctioning electronic sensor, or internal gear wear. I remember one time my car had this light on, and I felt the gear shifting wasn't smooth, so I immediately pulled over to check the oil level—sure enough, it was low. I topped it up but still took it to the shop for repairs. For safety, if the light comes on, don't keep driving. Find a flat spot to park, turn off the engine, and check the fluid level. If the oil is low, top it up, but that doesn't fix the root cause—you need to get it diagnosed at a professional shop to avoid a minor issue turning into a major repair, which could cost thousands. Regular maintenance and oil changes are crucial to prevent this hassle.
