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Kia Warning Light Symbols: What Do They Mean?

2024 Kia EV9 interior view of front and passenger seats


Recently noticed a Kia dashboard light symbol illuminated in your dash? Not to worry, the service team at Lou Sobh Kia in Cumming is here to walk you through the meaning behind the Kia dashboard light symbols. As there can be as many as 29 Kia malfunction indicator lights, it is good to know the difference between a light that indicates an active feature, and a critical maintenance concern like a Kia check engine light or Kia TPMS light.

Your Kia TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light may pop on, prompting a stop at the local Buford gas station for some air, or you may see your Kia Check Engine light illuminate. In either case, if you are concerned about the meaning of your Kia warning light exclamation point triangle symbols, review our guide, then schedule service with us for a thorough evaluation.

Kia Dash Light Meanings

Many of the Kia warning light symbols have harmless meanings. When your Cruise Control is active or your high beams are on, you may see a Kia warning light. Learning to distinguish between a Kia malfunction indicator light and a system engagement light is crucial for peace of mind on the Roswell streets.

While many Kia dashboard lights provide indications of proper vehicle functions, other indicators can be a warning of a serious issue. If you see a Kia warning light with an exclamation point and triangle, your Master Warning light has been tripped. This means that two or more of the following systems have issues: washer fluid, TPMS, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), or your fuel cap is open. Along with the Master Warning light, some of the most important Kia dash lights to be aware of include:

  • Malfunction (Engine Malfunction) Indicator Lamp: Commonly known as a Kia check engine light, this symbol means an emission issue or another engine problem has been detected.
  • Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light: When your engine oil is not at the right pressure, this light will alert you instantly. Proper oil volume is critical in preventing overheating and engine damage. More oil should be added as soon as possible.
  • Electric Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light: Should this light come on, or you notice an extreme amount of effort is needed to make steering corrections, your power steering system has malfunctioned.
  • ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) Warning Light: If your ABS is in disrepair, you will see ABS surrounded by a circle and parentheses. This means that you’re braking system, which is critical for safe navigation, needs to be examined.
  • TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) Malfunction Indicator: When the horseshoe-type symbol with an exclamation mark in the middle turns on, your tire pressure is getting low. If this symbol flashes when you start up your Kia, this means the system has detected a malfunction and cannot accurately gauge tire pressure.
  • Airbag Warning Light: If you see the “AIRBAG” light stay on, blink, or come on as you are driving, your airbag system has detected a malfunction. Have your vehicle looked at right away to maintain optimal safety.
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light: If this indicator comes on and stays lit in red, your engine is likely overheating. Pull over as soon as it is safe and do not continue to drive. An overheating vehicle can be quite dangerous. Contact our team for assistance if you get stuck on the road.

While there are many more Kia warning lights to be aware of, this list highlights some of the most critical malfunctions. If you are cruising through Alpharetta and see a Kia warning light symbol in your dash that raises concern, feel free to stop by and let our service techs take a look!

Find Expert Kia Service in Cumming!

If you see a serious Kia malfunction indicator light in your dash, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of trained technicians can quickly diagnose your issue and offer an affordable solution. What’s more, you can indulge in our rotating service specials for increased savings!

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