What does the red exclamation mark on a car mean?
2 Answers
Red exclamation mark (specifically a circle with an exclamation mark inside parentheses), this represents a warning for the braking system, mainly indicating a braking system malfunction or low brake fluid level. Solution: Immediate inspection and repair of the braking system is required to avoid accidents. In addition to the red exclamation mark representing braking system faults, other exclamation marks on a car are yellow, indicating general faults, automatic transmission faults, abnormal tire pressure, and lighting faults. Below is a detailed analysis of these four situations: General Fault: A triangle with an exclamation mark inside. If this symbol lights up, it indicates a general performance or component and function fault in the car. Mainly includes parking sensor faults, fuel cut-off system intervention or faults, external light faults, engine oil pressure sensor faults, etc. It is necessary to visit a 4S shop for inspection to identify the source of the fault. Automatic Transmission Fault: A yellow gear with an exclamation mark inside. This is the automatic transmission fault warning light, indicating a transmission fault or transmission lubricant below the normal range. Transmission oil should be replaced promptly. Abnormal Tire Pressure: A horizontal line under parentheses with an exclamation mark in the middle. 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 light, indicating a fault in the car's lights. Solution: Go to a 4S shop for inspection and treatment as soon as possible, or you can check it yourself. Focus on checking commonly used bulbs such as turn signals, fog lights, and interior lighting to see where the problem lies.
When I see that red exclamation mark light up on the car dashboard, I always become alert immediately because it represents an urgent warning light. The most common reason is the handbrake not being released—I've forgotten it a few times myself, only realizing something was wrong after driving for a while and then quickly pulling it up. It could also be a brake system malfunction, such as insufficient brake fluid or an ABS issue. If not addressed, you might feel the brakes becoming very hard when pressed, or even experience skidding, which is very dangerous. Sometimes, it indicates low engine oil pressure, in which case the red light will flash. Continuing to drive without stopping to check could potentially damage the engine. I recommend pulling over immediately, first confirming the handbrake's position, then checking the oil dipstick under the hood or other warnings on the dashboard. Definitely don't continue driving to avoid accidents.
