Understanding the warning and indicator lights on your Honda’s dashboard is essential for safe driving and keeping your vehicle in top condition. Each light provides important information about your car’s systems, from engine performance to safety features. Ignoring these alerts can lead to costly repairs or compromise your safety on the road.
Whether you’re a new or experienced driver, this guide will help you stay informed and drive with confidence.
Dashboard Lights You Should Consider
The dashboard lights in your Honda can come in different colors, each indicating the status of your vehicle. You can think of these colors like a traffic light:
Green: The system is active and functioning properly. Green lights are informational and do not require action; you can continue driving normally.
Yellow:Indicates a potential issue. Pay attention and check the situation as soon as possible.
Red: Signals a serious problem. Safely stop the vehicle and take it to an authorized service center immediately.
It’s important to note that not all red lights are equally critical; some require immediate attention, while others may be less urgent. In this guide, you’ll find the main Honda dashboard warning lights, their meanings, and recommended actions. For any issues you can’t resolve on your own, contact your service center to schedule a professional inspection or diagnostic service.
Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light, also known as the Honda engine warning light, indicates that there may be one or more issues with your vehicle’s engine. However, problems in interconnected systems, such as the exhaust, can also trigger this light.
There are many possible causes, so it’s important to have a professional inspection. Proper diagnosis requires genuine Honda diagnostic tools, so schedule a service appointment at an authorized Honda center as soon as possible.
Check Emissions System Light
The Emission System Warning Light uses a symbol similar to the Check Engine Light and may display messages like “Check Emission System” or “Emissions System Problem.” This warning can be caused by issues such as a faulty or removed catalytic converter and should never be ignored. Driving with this light on can lead to serious engine damage, so have your vehicle inspected immediately at an authorized Honda service center.
Loose Gas Cap Light
Both the Check Engine and Check Emissions System lights can be triggered by a loose gas cap. Some Hondas also have a dedicated fuel cap warning light, which will alert you if the cap is loose and may prevent the check engine light from activating.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
The Oil Pressure Warning Light indicates low oil level or pressure, a critical issue for your engine. If this light comes on, stop immediately and have your vehicle towed to an authorized Honda service center. Driving further risks severe engine damage.
High Coolant Temperature Warning Light
This light signals that your engine is overheating. Consider this a “do not drive” warning—continuing to drive can cause catastrophic engine damage. Pull over and have your car towed immediately.
Low Coolant Temperature Warning Light
Indicates the engine coolant is too cold. Allow your engine to warm up before driving.
Brake Warning Light
The Brake Warning Light can indicate a malfunction in your braking system or low brake fluid. In either case, pull over and have your vehicle inspected immediately at a reliable service center.
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Light
The ABS Lightindicates a malfunction within the anti-lock braking system. The Brake Warning Light may also activate alongside it. ABS helps prevent skidding during emergency stops. Have your system inspected as soon as possible.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light
This warning signals a malfunction in the electric power steering system. EPS helps maintain vehicle control, so exercise caution and have your vehicle inspected immediately.
Charging System Warning Light
This light indicates an issue with your alternator, which may prevent your battery from charging properly. Pull over when safe and contact roadside assistance.
Low Fuel Warning Light
Your gas tank is nearly empty. Fill up your tank as soon as possible to avoid running out of fuel.
Washer Fluid Level Warning Light
Indicates that your windshield washer fluid is low. Keep it filled to maintain clear visibility.
Honda Smart Key System Warning Light
Signals a malfunction in the keyless entry system. Contact a service center for proper diagnosis and reset.
System Notification Light
Alerts you to a message in your vehicle’s information display. Check the screen for full details.
Brake Lamp Warning Light
Indicates one or more brake lights are out. Fix immediately to comply with legal requirements and ensure safety.
Daytime Running Light (DRL)
Shows that one or more DRLs are malfunctioning. Maintain visibility during daytime driving by repairing as needed.
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) Light
Indicates activation of the VSA system to correct a skid or loss-of-control situation. If it stays on, schedule service immediately.
Tire Pressure Warning Light
Alerts you to low tire pressure or a TPMS sensor issue. Inflate tires correctly and have sensors checked if the light remains on.
Radar Obstructed Light
Shows that radar sensors (for Adaptive Cruise Control, etc.) are blocked. Clean the sensors before driving.
Adaptive Cruise Control Light
Indicates the system is active and maintaining preset speed and distance. No action needed.
Cruise Control Light
Shows cruise control is active. Turn off if not needed.
Exterior Lights Icon
Indicates headlights are on. Turn them off when parked to prevent battery drain.
Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Light
Indicates the system is active and maintaining your lane position. Be aware of system steering adjustments.
Lane Departure Warning Light
Alerts if your car crosses lane markings without signaling. Helps prevent unintentional lane departures.
Road Departure Mitigation System Warning Light
Indicates a problem with the system that helps prevent road departures. Schedule service promptly.
Collision Mitigation Braking System Light
Shows that the system has engaged to help avoid a collision. Check the system if the light remains on.
Blind-Spot Warning Light
Indicates a vehicle is in your blind spot. If no vehicle is present, the system may be malfunctioning.
Door Open Light
One or more doors are open. Close all doors before driving.
Trunk Open Light
Indicates the trunk is open. Ensure it is closed before driving.
Turn Signal Light
Shows that a turn signal is active. Turn it off after completing the maneuver.
High Beam Light
Indicates high beams are on. Turn them off when approaching other vehicles.
Auto High Beam Light
Shows the Auto High Beam system is active and controlling your high beams automatically.
Fog Lights Light
Indicates fog lights are on.
Immobilizer Light
Indicates the engine immobilizer is activated and the correct key is not detected. Contact a service center for assistance.
Stay Safe With Your Honda
Dashboard warning lights are designed to keep you informed and safe while driving. Understanding their meanings helps you take the right action—whether it’s scheduling routine Honda maintenance service in Bermuda, fixing a minor issue, or pulling over for urgent repairs.
If any of these lights appear on your Honda, don’t ignore them. Visit your trusted Honda service car center in Bermudato get a professional diagnosis and the right solution. With proper care, your Honda car will stay reliable, safe, and ready for the road ahead.
