What does the red exclamation mark in the car mean?

[Chiron]

If the car displays an exclamation mark inside a circle with parentheses, it indicates a brake system malfunction. Here is relevant information about the brake system: 1. Function: To ensure safe driving of the car, improve the average driving speed, and enhance transportation productivity, dedicated braking mechanisms are installed on all types of vehicles. This series of specialized devices is collectively referred to as the brake system. 2. Principle: It mainly consists of wheel brakes, hydraulic transmission, and pneumatic transmission mechanisms. The wheel brake primarily comprises rotating parts, fixed parts, and adjustment mechanisms. The rotating part is the brake drum; the fixed parts include the brake shoe and brake backing plate; the adjustment mechanism consists of eccentric support pins and adjustment cams used to adjust the shoe-drum clearance.

[SanJaxson]

That red exclamation mark is no small matter—it always makes me nervous when it lights up on the dashboard. It indicates a serious vehicle malfunction that requires immediate attention, such as issues with the braking or steering systems. Once, I encountered the brake warning light with the red exclamation mark on the highway, and I had to reduce my speed to 30 km/h to slowly coast into the service area. Later, I found out the brake fluid had leaked completely. Never ignore this kind of alarm—it’s a signal to stop and inspect the vehicle right away, especially checking if the brake pedal feels softer or if there’s a tire leak. Continuing to drive could lead to major accidents. After turning off the engine, it’s best to call for a tow truck to take the car to a repair shop.

[GrantMarie]

The red exclamation mark is the most critical warning light in a car, and it gives me chills every time I see it. The last time it lit up was when my old car ran out of brake fluid, and the brakes nearly failed. This type of warning could be caused by worn-out brake pads, an ABS system malfunction, or steering issues—you need to pull over immediately. I always check the specific icon shape first; for example, a steering wheel with an exclamation mark indicates a loss of power steering, while a circle with an exclamation mark usually points to brake problems. Never attempt to drive to a repair shop yourself—it's best to call a tow truck. During routine maintenance, ask the mechanic to thoroughly inspect the brake lines and power steering pump to minimize the chances of this happening.

[GavinDella]

A flashing red exclamation mark on the dashboard definitely indicates a problem. The most common cause is brake system failure, like when I found insufficient brake fluid last time, this light came on. It may also illuminate when there's an issue with the steering system, making the steering wheel feel unusually heavy. Once when my tire was punctured triggering the TPMS warning, it also showed a red exclamation symbol. Whenever I encounter this situation, I immediately turn on hazard lights and pull over, then pop the hood to check the brake fluid reservoir level and inspect tires for obvious deflation. If I can't diagnose it myself, I call the dealership or repair shop, clearly describing the light's shape and position.