Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Symbols

Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Display

Mercedes-Benz dashboard symbols light up to warn you of problems with the systems or safety features on their vehicle. The lights have different meanings related to problems with the hybrid systems, engine issues, fluid levels, and battery charge.

Dashboard warning lights can also be triggered by exterior sensors that detect unsafe driving conditions, icy roads, poor driving patterns, or a change in the Comfort Drive Program drive mode.

Mercedes-Benz dashboard symbols light up to warn you of problems with the systems or safety features on their vehicle. The lights have different meanings related to problems with the hybrid systems, engine issues, fluid levels, and battery charge.

Dashboard warning lights can also be triggered by exterior sensors that detect unsafe driving conditions, icy roads, poor driving patterns, or a change in the Comfort Drive Program drive mode.

Why Should You Learn Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Light Meanings?

It is important to know the Mercedes-Benz dashboard light meanings so that you can decide what action to take when one illuminates. In some cases, the solution may be as simple as adding sufficient coolant or changing your driving behaviors.

Sometimes, a light may come on because of dirty sensors, an issue with the dashboard display, or a display malfunction. However, when certain icons illuminate, it could be a sign of a deeper issue that will require you to schedule service, preferably at an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center.

The certified auto service technicians at Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison can diagnose a warning light, look for underlying issues, and explain what service your vehicle may need. We offer complete transparency and will take the time to explain the situation to you.

The customer-centered approach seen in our service experts also applies when you buy a new or used Mercedes-Benz. Our customer service team can give you the insights and information that you need to feel confident about your purchase.

What Do Mercedes Dashboard Lights Mean?

Here is a closer look at what the most common warning lights mean.

Color Meanings

The color of the Mercedes-Benz dashboard light can help you decide whether you need to schedule service immediately or you can continue your daily drive. There are three colors that you might see.

• A green light simply means that a vehicle system is currently in use and working correctly. You might see this when you turn on the rear fog lights or other exterior lights or if cruise control is engaged.

• A yellow warning light indicates a non-emergency issue. For example, a yellow brake warning light could indicate thinning brake pads or a lack of brake fluid. Yellow lights also come on for the fuel level, coolant level, or oil levels icons.
• A red warning light indicates a potentially dangerous issue that could cause irreparable damage.

If you see a red dashboard light, you should seek immediate service for your vehicle.

Symbol Meanings for Safety

Some symbols are part of the essential safety systems.

• The Mercedes-Benz brake assist system (BAS®) warning light is a red triangle that comes on when you are following another vehicle and do not meet emergency braking distances standards.
• The Mercedes-Benz ATTENTION ASSIST® warning light protects against drowsy driving. It appears as a mug of coffee, accompanied by the text “drowsy driving detected.”
• The seat belt light will turn on if the driver or passenger isn’t buckled up. If you reach 15 miles per hour, that light is accompanied by an audible alert.

These common Mercedes-Benz dashboard lights are meant to ensure that the safety systems are active and are providing full protection.

Why Is There a Warning Light on My Dashboard?

Other lights warn of general vehicle systems issues. For example, a steering wheel icon indicates an electrical power steering fault. When the power steering system isn’t working, you will need to turn harder to compensate for the lack of power steering assistance.

• A battery light indicates an insufficiently-charged or faulty battery or a poor electrical connection.
• The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) icon is a flat tire with an exclamation point. It indicates low tire pressure.

• The anti-lock braking system light (ABS light) has the letters ABS inside a circle. It tells you that the anti-lock brake system is offline. Related systems such as dependent braking assist and electronic brake force distribution will also be unavailable.
• The traction control system indicator, appearing as a car with skid marks behind it, tells you that electronic stability control and traction control systems are offline.

• The engine oil light indicates low oil levels.
• The coolant light comes on if coolant levels are too low.
• Coolant temperature and oil temperature lights indicate that the fluids are too hot and won’t function properly.
• The Mercedes-Benz check engine light can indicate a number of issues related to the engine. You should get your car serviced as soon as possible if you see the check-engine light on.

How long can you drive with your check engine warning light on?

You typically need to take extra care and schedule service as soon as possible to avoid irreparable engine damage. You can also look for obvious oil leaks or other tell-tale signs of combustion engine problems.

How Do I Reset My Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Warning Light?

If you take your vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center, the technician will likely reset all the warning lights.

At Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz of Edison, we can keep you informed throughout the process. Mercedes-Benz certified experts will let you know why the warning light came on, what systems and safety features were impacted, and what you need to remedy the situation.

Your relationship with Ray Catena Mercedes-Benz starts when you purchase your vehicle and continues for as long as you own it. We are here for you throughout every service need, big or small, through the life of your vehicle.

Contact or visit us today to browse our inventory of new and used vehicles.