Truck dashboard warning lights are crucial for providing drivers with information about the vehicle’s operation and condition. Understanding the meaning of each light helps you operate the vehicle safely and efficiently, while also detecting problems early for timely solutions. This article will decode the meaning, colors, and symbols of common dashboard warning lights on trucks in Vietnam.
Warning Light Colors and General Meanings:
Each color of the dashboard warning light has a specific meaning, helping drivers quickly recognize the severity of the problem:
- Red: Indicates a serious hazard, requiring immediate stopping to inspect and resolve the issue. For example: low engine oil pressure, excessive engine temperature, brake system malfunction.
- Yellow/Orange: Indicates a problem or a need for inspection and maintenance. The vehicle can still be operated, but monitoring and addressing the issue promptly is necessary. For example: low tire pressure, low fuel, ABS brake system warning.
- Green/Blue: Indicates that the system is operating normally. For example: headlights are on, cooling system is working well.
- White: Usually used for lighting, rarely used for warning lights.
Decoding Common Warning Light Meanings:
There are many warning lights on a truck dashboard, but some common and important warning lights need attention:
Hazard Warning Lights (Red):
- Brakes: Indicates low brake fluid pressure or a brake system malfunction.
- Engine Temperature: Indicates excessive engine temperature.
- Engine Oil Pressure: Indicates excessively low engine oil pressure.
- Power Steering: The power steering system is malfunctioning.
- Airbag: The airbag system is malfunctioning or has been deactivated.
- Battery: Weak battery or not charging.
Repair Needed Warning Lights (Yellow/Orange):
- Emissions: The exhaust system is malfunctioning.
- Diesel Particulate Filter: The diesel particulate filter has a problem (for vehicles using diesel engines).
- Tire Pressure: Low tire pressure.
- ABS: The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is malfunctioning.
- Electronic Stability Control: The electronic stability control system is off.
Other Warning Lights: (Image: 
Various truck dashboard warning lights & 
More truck dashboard warning lights)
- Fuel: Low fuel.
- Turn Signal: Turn signal is active.
- Fog Lights: Fog lights are active.
- Maintenance: Vehicle maintenance is due.
Conclusion:
Understanding the meaning of truck dashboard warning lights is crucial for every driver. When a warning light illuminates, especially a red one, you should stop the vehicle immediately to inspect and resolve the issue, avoiding serious damage to the vehicle or endangering yourself and others. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for details on each type of warning light on your vehicle.
