When your Subaru's dashboard lights up with a warning icon, it can trigger anything from mild curiosity to outright panic. Is it something simple, like a low windshield washer fluid alert? Or is your vehicle trying to tell you it’s about to break down?
Every modern Subaru — whether it’s a Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Ascent, or WRX — comes loaded with onboard diagnostics. These systems monitor everything from engine performance and safety features to tire pressure and emissions. When something’s off, a warning light appears. Some are yellow and informational; others are red and critical.
Here’s a detailed, model-agnostic guide to understanding what those dashboard lights mean, how urgent each one is, and what to do next when they appear.
- Check Engine Light (CEL)
Color: Yellow or amber
Symbol: Engine block outline
This is the most misunderstood warning light. It doesn’t always mean something’s seriously wrong, but it never appears without reason.
Possible causes:
- Loose gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Engine misfire
- Catalytic converter efficiency problem
- Transmission-related codes
Urgency: Moderate to high
- If the light is steady: vehicle is usually safe to drive, but schedule diagnostics soon.
- If flashing: likely engine misfire — reduce speed and seek service immediately.
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
Color: Red
Symbol: Oil can with a drop
This warns of low oil pressure, not just low oil level — a critical issue.
Possible causes:
- Critically low oil
- Failing oil pump
- Clogged oil passages
Urgency: Critical
Stop the engine immediately. Check oil level and do not restart until cause is confirmed.
- Battery/Charging System Warning
Color: Red
Symbol: Battery
Your Subaru is running off battery power only.
Possible causes:
- Failed alternator
- Corroded battery terminals
- Faulty battery
Urgency: High
Your car may stall soon — get to a service center quickly.
. Brake System Warning
Color: Red
Symbol: Circle with exclamation or “BRAKE”
Possible causes:
- Parking brake engaged
- Low brake fluid
- ABS or hydraulic brake issue
Urgency: Critical if not the parking brake
Low fluid or pressure loss can lead to brake failure.
- ABS Warning Light
Color: Yellow
Symbol: “ABS” in a circle
Base brakes still work, but ABS function is lost.
Possible causes:
- Faulty sensor
- ABS module failure
Urgency: Moderate
Drive cautiously; avoid hard braking until repaired.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Color: Yellow
Symbol: Exclamation in a flat tire shape
What to do:
- Check tire pressures manually.
- Inflate per the door placard.
A flashing light on startup may mean a system fault.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) / Traction Control
Color: Yellow
Symbol: Car with squiggly lines
When flashing briefly, it's active. If constant, VDC is off.
Possible causes:
- Faulty wheel sensor
- Brake switch issue
Urgency: Low to moderate
Drive carefully, especially in rain or snow.
- EyeSight Warning Light
Color: Yellow or red
Symbol: EyeSight text or camera icon
Causes:
- Windshield obstruction
- Misaligned camera
- System fault
Urgency: Moderate
Clean windshield; if unresolved, service is needed.
- High-Temperature Warning Light
Color: Red
Symbol: Thermometer in liquid
What to do:
- Turn off A/C, turn heat on high
- Pull over and shut off engine
- Do not open radiator when hot
Urgency: Critical
Overheating can cause major engine damage.
- Airbag/SRS Warning Light
Color: Red
Symbol: Person with circle in front
Possible causes:
- Faulty airbag module
- Crash sensor issue
- Wiring fault
Urgency: High
Airbags may not deploy in a crash — service ASAP.
- Security Indicator Light
Color: Red
Symbol: Car with padlock
Flashing when locked is normal. On while driving may signal a key or immobilizer issue.
Urgency: Low
- Low Fuel Warning
Color: Yellow
Symbol: Fuel pump
Triggers with ~2–3 gallons remaining. Best practice: don’t drop below 1/4 tank often.
- Washer Fluid Warning
Color: Yellow
Symbol: Windshield with spray
Action: Refill when convenient — no urgent risk.
How to Respond to Warning Lights Smartly
- Red lights = stop and check immediately.
- Yellow lights = caution and schedule service.
- Flashing lights = especially urgent.
Use your owner’s manual for icon specifics.
If in doubt, let a scan tool at the dealership check for stored fault codes.
Subaru of Dayton’s Role in Dashboard Diagnostics
Subaru of Dayton’s certified technicians can:
- Read and clear trouble codes.
- Check systems like EyeSight or ABS.
- Provide preventive maintenance to stop future warnings.
If your dash lights up, don’t panic — but don’t ignore it either. Your Subaru is talking to you. Catching issues early is the best way to stay safe, reduce repair costs, and keep every system running as designed.