11 February 2025 · Tips N' Tricks
Mazda Warning Lights
You're dodging traffic, commuting to work, or rushing to get the kids dropped off when suddenly a Mazda warning light pops up on your dashboard. None of us have time to dig out owner's manuals or scour Google to figure out what those car dashboard warning lights mean, so to make your life easier, the Mount Gravatt Mazda team created this quick-fix guide.
Scroll down for a simple explanation of the most common Mazda light symbols and the steps to fix them. We cover everything from the Mazda exclamation mark symbol to power steering malfunction alerts, so let's dive into the most common warnings and get you back on the road ASAP.
Quick Facts About Mazda Warning Lights
- An engine light's meaning is colour-coded so you know how quickly action needs to be taken.
- Some colours simply tell you your vehicle is working as it should, while others indicate the need for repairs.
- Sometimes, the dashboard light meaning is easily recognizable, and other times, the symbol doesn't seem to make sense. Don't worry – this guide explains them all.
- If your car dashboard warning lights illuminate briefly and then turn off, the warning is situational.
Red or Blinking Red Lights:
Red dashboard warning lights signal an emergency that requires immediate attention. If the red light is a seat belt warning, you can easily buckle up while driving and solve the problem. However, if the red warning symbol indicates an engine malfunction, you should pull over as soon as safety allows rather than risk damage to your vehicle or harm to yourself.
Orange, Yellow, or Amber Lights:
These colours indicate that certain systems need attention very soon, but the issue is not yet an emergency. Think of these car dashboard warning lights as helpful suggestions. Orange, yellow, and amber lights often indicate reduced traction or elevated engine temperature, which you can safely manage with a little extra awareness.
Green or Blue Lights:
Warning lights don't always indicate a problem. Seeing green or blue Mazda light symbols on your dash means the systems they represent are functioning correctly. Green headlight symbols mean your headlights are working properly, and green turn signal lights mean you've successfully communicated your intention to turn.
A Deep Dive Into Mazda Warning Lights: What They Mean and How To Fix Them
Remember that not all Mazda light symbols are bad. Some light up just to inform you that a certain feature or function is active; these lights are called Indicator Lights. However, we can't imagine you looked up this page to learn why your vehicle is running well, so below, we'll focus on the Mazda warning lights that indicate a problem.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about your Mazda model or need help resolving a warning light issue, please don't hesitate to contact our Service Department for help.
- Mazda Master Warning Light: If you see a Mazda exclamation mark light up on your dash, your vehicle is alerting you to a problem with one or more crucial systems. The triangular symbol with an exclamation mark in the middle is a general warning, and more details about what's wrong will often be found on your car's informational display. The Mazda exclamation mark frequently lights up alongside another symbol.
- Check Engine Light: This glowing picture of an engine suggests a problem with the engine, fuel, or ignition system. Sometimes, this can be something as minor as a loose gas cap, which you can tighten yourself. However, if that doesn't resolve the issue, get this Mazda light symbol investigated by our team quickly.
- Engine Oil Warning Light: Notice an oil can symbol glowing yellow or red? This means your Mazda oil pressure is low or you have an oil leak. In either case, schedule an appointment with the Mount Gravatt Mazda service team before this problem ruins your engine.
- Battery Warning Light: Many people ignore battery lights because they seem to appear so frequently, but this alert should be investigated. Something is preventing your battery from charging properly, whether that's the battery itself or the alternator, so seek assistance before your car fails to turn on altogether.
- Low Fuel Warning Light: This Mazda light symbol will illuminate when your vehicle only has approximately nine litres of fuel remaining in its tank. Start looking for the nearest service station to refill rather than risk damaging your engine or being stranded because you've run out of fuel.
- Brake System Warning Light: This Mazda light symbol doesn't always mean something is wrong – it could indicate that you have engaged your parking brake. However, if the light stays on while you're driving, you likely have low brake fluid levels that need to be topped up.
- ABS Warning Light: Your anti-lock braking system helps you avoid potential collisions by preventing the wheels from locking up so you can keep control and steer away from danger. When this Mazda light symbol is bright, it means that this helpful feature is not working and needs to be inspected by professionals.
- Mazda Smart Brake Support Warning Light: Some Mazda vehicles contain a system that looks ahead to where other cars are and may bring your car to a stop if it thinks you are likely to get into a collision. The system relies on sensors in the windshield to function properly. If this Mazda light symbol turns on, it means that there is a problem with this system. The issue might be helped by clearing off the windshield, or you may need a professional inspection.
- Tyre Pressure Warning Light: Your car's tyres are meant to be kept between a certain PSI range to help you maintain control on the road and reduce the risk of blowouts. This symbol means your tyres are underinflated. When you can, park your vehicle and inflate the tyres to the recommended levels.
- High Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light: This car dashboard warning light looks like a thermometer in red (not to be confused with the blue low engine coolant temperature light that looks similar). However, it can also resemble a boat with a sail. This warning means that your engine is at risk of overheating, so you should slow the car down or pull over until it has time to cool down to avoid permanent engine damage.
- Power Steering Malfunction Warning Light: If you see a steering wheel icon next to a Mazda exclamation mark, there must be a problem with your power steering. In some cases, parking the car, turning it off, and then turning it back on will make this light disappear as the system resets. However, if that doesn't work, set a service appointment quickly.
- Automatic Transmission Warning: In some cars, this symbol will appear as the word "AT." It means that your transmission has an electric problem that should be addressed ASAP.
- AWD Warning Light: Many people prefer all-wheel drive vehicles because this setup provides greater traction on slippery roads or uneven terrain. However, if an AWD warning light pops up, it means your all-wheel drivetrain isn't working and your vehicle is functioning in front-wheel drive instead. Have your model inspected when this light illuminates to remedy the problem.
- Air Bag/Front Seat Belt Pretensioner System Warning: Your safety on the road is of paramount importance. Visit our service department immediately if you see these car dashboard warning lights since they hint that the airbags or seat belts may not work properly in an accident.
Need To Know More About Mazda Warning Signs? Contact Our Team Today!
While we've covered the basics of car dashboard warning lights, there are others you might see, and some models and grades have symbols that others do not. If you have specific questions about your Mazda warning lights, reach out to our friendly service team and we can help you understand what your mystery warning light means and how to fix it.
Mount Gravatt Mazda service appointments are easy to schedule using our online booking system, or by calling us on 3347 5000. The faster your car is fixed, the quicker you can get back to daily life!