Hyundai vehicles blend advanced technology with dependable performance. Yet, even top-tier cars use warning lights to communicate potential problems. Knowing what each symbol means helps you act quickly, avoid costly repairs, and drive safely.
This guide covers the most common Hyundai warning lights and symbols, their meanings, and how a Carista OBD2 scanner can help you diagnose issues instantly without any mechanical help.
Why Dashboard Warning Lights Matter
Every Hyundai dashboard light has a specific purpose. These indicators work as your car’s early warning system. When a component or sensor detects a problem, the car displays the corresponding symbol on the instrument panel.
Ignoring a warning light can cause damage or safety risks. Understanding these signals—and responding correctly—protects both your car and your wallet.
Comprehensive List of Hyundai Warning Lights and Meanings
Below is a complete overview of Hyundai’s key warning symbols and what they mean:
1. Check Engine Light (CEL)
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Symbol: Engine outline (orange/amber)
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Meaning: A problem exists with the engine, emissions, or sensors.
Action: Use the Carista OBD2 scanner to read fault codes and identify the issue before visiting a mechanic.
2. Battery Charge Warning Light
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Symbol: Battery icon
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Meaning: The alternator or battery may be malfunctioning.
Action: Stop driving if this light remains on. Check the alternator and charging system.
3. Oil Pressure Warning Light
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Symbol: Oil can icon
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Meaning: Low oil pressure or insufficient oil.
Action: Pull over immediately and check the oil level. Driving with low oil pressure can destroy the engine.
4. Brake System Warning Light
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Symbol: Exclamation mark inside a circle or “BRAKE” text
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Meaning: Possible low brake fluid, worn pads, or engaged parking brake.
Action: Ensure the parking brake is off and inspect brake fluid levels.
5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
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Symbol: Exclamation mark inside a horseshoe shape
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Meaning: Tire pressure is below the recommended level.
Action: Inflate all tires to factory specifications. Reset the TPMS if needed.
6. ABS Warning Light
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Symbol: Letters “ABS”
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Meaning: The Anti-lock Braking System is not functioning correctly.
Action: Brakes will still work but without ABS assistance. Have the system checked.
7. Airbag Warning Light
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Symbol: Seated figure with a circle (airbag)
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Meaning: Airbag or seatbelt pretensioner malfunction.
Action: Have the system inspected immediately. Use Carista to read airbag-related fault codes.
8. Coolant Temperature Warning Light
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Symbol: Thermometer or wavy lines
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Meaning: The engine temperature is too high.
Action: Stop the car, let it cool, and check coolant levels.
9. Power Steering Warning Light
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Symbol: Steering wheel with an exclamation mark
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Meaning: Power steering system issue.
Action: Steering may feel heavy. Check fluid levels or use Carista for system diagnostics.
10. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Light
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Symbol: Skidding car icon
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Meaning: ESC is active or malfunctioning.
Action: If flashing, it’s working to stabilize the car. If steady, have it checked.
11. Transmission Temperature Warning Light
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Symbol: Thermometer within a gear icon
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Meaning: Transmission fluid is overheating.
Action: Pull over safely and allow the vehicle to cool before continuing.
How to diagnose and reset Hyundai warning lights
The Carista OBD2 scanner is the easiest way to understand and clear Hyundai warning lights.
It connects to your car’s diagnostic port and syncs with the Carista app.
Top Benefits:
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Read and clear trouble codes for engine, ABS, airbags, and TPMS.
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Save time and money with accurate, in-depth diagnostics.
For Hyundai owners who want control and clarity, Carista is the ultimate diagnostic tool.
FAQs About Hyundai Warning Lights
1. Can I drive if a warning light turns on?
If the light is red or flashing, stop the vehicle safely. Yellow or orange lights usually indicate non-critical issues that should still be diagnosed soon.
2. How do I clear warning lights on my Hyundai?
Once the issue is fixed, lights often reset automatically. If not, use a Carista OBD2 scanner to clear stored codes safely.
3. Why does my Hyundai show multiple lights at once?
This can happen due to a low battery voltage or sensor failure. Run a full system scan using Carista to identify the root cause.
Conclusion
Understanding Hyundai’s dashboard symbols empowers you to drive confidently. Each light is your car’s way of communicating—never ignore them.
With the Carista OBD2 scanner, you can read, interpret, and clear these warnings in minutes.
Stay proactive, maintain your Hyundai properly, and enjoy smooth, worry-free driving.