An exclamation point on your car's dashboard typically indicates one of four warnings: the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) alert inside a horseshoe shape, the brake system warning inside a circle, the master warning light inside a triangle, or the vehicle stability assist (VSA) warning[1]. The meaning depends on the symbol surrounding the exclamation point. TPMS warnings (horseshoe shape) mean at least one tire has lost 25% of its recommended pressure[2]. Brake warnings (circle) require immediate attention, while triangle warnings indicate a general system problem that needs diagnosis[3].
Modern vehicles use multiple exclamation point symbols to communicate different problems. Identifying the surrounding shape tells you exactly which system needs attention.
| Symbol Shape | System | Urgency | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horseshoe/tire shape | TPMS (Tire Pressure) | Medium | Check and inflate tires[2] |
| Circle (parentheses) | Brake System | High to Critical | Check brakes immediately[4] |
| Triangle | Master Warning | Variable | Check info display for details[3] |
| Triangle (Honda) | VSA System | Medium | Have system diagnosed[5] |
The color also matters significantly. Yellow or amber lights indicate caution—the issue needs attention but isn't immediately dangerous[3]. Red lights signal urgent problems requiring immediate action, often meaning you should stop driving as soon as safely possible[3].
The TPMS light appears as an exclamation point inside a horseshoe or "U" shape—resembling a cross-section of a flat tire[2]. This is the most common exclamation point warning drivers encounter.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System alerts you when at least one tire has fallen 25% below the recommended inflation pressure[2]. This threshold is mandated by federal safety regulations. Low tire pressure affects:
If the light stays on after proper inflation, a TPMS sensor may be faulty[7]. Sensor batteries typically last 5-10 years, and replacement usually occurs during tire changes. Understanding battery life expectations helps contextualize when sensors need replacement.
A TPMS light that flashes for 60-90 seconds then stays solid indicates a sensor malfunction rather than low pressure[2]. The system cannot properly monitor your tires in this state, so manual pressure checks become essential until repairs are made.
The brake warning light appears as an exclamation point inside a circle, often with parentheses or arc shapes on either side representing brake pads[4]. This is typically red, indicating high urgency.
This warning can indicate several brake-related issues[4]:
A red brake warning combined with soft or spongy brake pedal feel requires immediate attention. Pull over safely and have the vehicle towed rather than risk brake failure. If your car has starting issues, electrical problems could also trigger false warning lights.
The master warning light appears as an exclamation point inside a triangle[3]. Its color (yellow or red) indicates severity.
Unlike specific warnings, the triangle with exclamation point is a general alert that something requires attention[3]. It functions as a catch-all indicator that accompanies more specific warnings or messages in your driver information display.
Common triggers include:
Yellow triangle: Address within 24-48 hours; the issue is important but not immediately dangerous[3].
Red triangle: Pull over when safe and investigate immediately; continuing to drive may cause damage or create unsafe conditions[3].
On Honda vehicles specifically, the triangle with exclamation point indicates a Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system problem[5]. Other manufacturers may use similar symbols for electronic stability control issues.
The VSA system helps maintain vehicle stability by:
When this warning illuminates, the stability assist features may be disabled or functioning abnormally.
Understanding color coding helps prioritize responses:
| Color | Urgency Level | Typical Response |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Critical | Stop driving; address immediately[3] |
| Yellow/Amber | Caution | Address within 24-48 hours[3] |
| Green/Blue | Informational | Feature active; no action needed |
Red lights often indicate safety-critical systems like brakes, engine temperature, or oil pressure. Continuing to drive with a red warning can cause serious damage or create dangerous conditions[3].
If you're experiencing multiple warning lights, electrical issues may be involved. Problems like alternator failures can trigger cascading warnings across multiple systems.
Pull over and stop as soon as safely possible if you see[3]:
For less urgent yellow warnings, you can typically continue to your destination and address the issue soon—but don't postpone indefinitely. Understanding overheating symptoms helps you respond appropriately to temperature-related warnings.
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