Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Warning Lights Guide

Dashboard Warning Lights Explained

Paying attention to your dashboard warning lights can help you respond to minor problems before they become expensive repairs. However, these indicators won’t do much good unless you’re able to interpret each dashboard warning light’s meaning! Consult our list of Mercedes-Benz dashboard symbols to prepare yourself for whatever comes next.

Engine System Warning Lights

• Check Engine – The check engine light generally indicates an issue with your fuel injection or engine management systems. If it comes on unexpectedly while you’re driving through Westport or Norwalk, check your gas cap first. Escaping fumes can trigger this warning light easily.
• Coolant Temp Warning – If your coolant level has fallen below the lower limit or your radiator isn’t working like it should, your coolant temperature warning light will come on. Check your temperature gauge; it’s never a good idea to drive an overheating vehicle!
• Reduced Power Warning – If your throttle system isn’t working properly, you might notice the performance changes before this light comes on! This problem is serious, so schedule service right away. 

Warning Lights for Your Braking and Steering Systems:

• ABS System – The anti-lock braking system has been designed to help your vehicle stop under pressure. If this light comes on, get it checked out right away. Other connected systems–like your brake assist system–won’t work properly until the problem is fixed.
• ESC – If your vehicle starts to skid, Electronic Stability Control kicks in to bring things back under control. This light will appear inside a yellow triangle if your vehicle is at risk of skidding. You may also see this warning light if you have turned off the system manually.
• Power Steering – A steering wheel next to an exclamation point is a surefire indicator that your power steering system isn’t working properly. You might have to work harder to turn and direct the vehicle, so visit our service center as soon as possible.
• Brake Wear – If your brake pads are getting dangerously thin, you’ll need to replace them at the earliest opportunity. This warning light will tell you when service is absolutely necessary.

Informative Warning Lights:

• Mercedes-Benz Service Indicator – When it’s time to schedule regular maintenance–like Mercedes-Benz Service A* or Mercedes-Benz Service B*–you should see a wrench appear on your dashboard.
• ATTENTION ASSIST® – A light that looks like a steaming cup of coffee is your cue that it’s time to take a break! Mercedes-Benz ATTENTION ASSIST® has determined that you’re either tired or distracted.
• Security Alert – A security alert may indicate that someone has tried to gain access to your vehicle. Check the ignition switch and the doors to make sure that everything looks normal.
• Cruise Control – Some lights are purely informational! The cruise control light is one such example, and it comes on whenever this feature has been activated.
• Light Bulb – This indicator is letting you know that one or more of your exterior lights is due for replacement.
• Fog Lamp – You should see a fog lamp appear on your dashboard whenever your headlights are engaged. 
• Washer Fluid Reminder – If you see the washer fluid reminder on your dashboard, pop the hood and add more windshield wiper fluid as soon as possible.
• Airbag Fault – This light indicates an issue with your airbag system, and you’ll want to deal with the issue as soon as possible!

• Tire Pressure Warning Light– Each of your vehicle’s tires–including your spare, if one exists–should come equipped with a pressure sensor. If something seems off or your pressure has gotten low, your Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will keep you informed.
• PRESAFE® – Your PRESAFE® systems engage whenever an imminent collision is detected. If you see the words “PRESAFE® Functions Limited,” get into our service center and let us take a look.

Ask Our Experts About Your Dashboard Warning Lights!

Now that you’ve seen some of the most common Mercedes-Benz dashboard warning lights explained, you should know that you can always contact our service team for more information! While you’re here, explore our other service tips and tricks to learn more about automotive care. You might even be able to solve some of your problems at home in Weston or Fairfield.

**Service A/B is only for Model Years 2009 and newer. Services and pricing for Service A/Service B may vary due to your driving habits, mileage, and local environmental conditions. Please refer to your maintenance booklet for additional details and general guidelines for your vehicle’s year and model.