The Honda Accord, a popular midsize sedan, is equipped with a sophisticated dashboard that displays various warning lights and symbols. These indicators are designed to alert drivers to potential issues or provide important information about the vehicle's status. Understanding these dashboard symbols is crucial for maintaining your Honda Accord's performance, safety, and longevity.

Honda has implemented a color-coded system for its warning lights, making it easier for drivers to quickly assess the urgency of each indicator. Generally, red lights indicate serious issues that require immediate attention, while yellow or orange lights suggest less urgent problems that should be addressed soon. Green and blue lights typically provide information about the vehicle's normal operations.

To help you navigate the complex array of dashboard symbols in your Honda Accord, we've compiled a comprehensive guide. This article will cover the most common warning lights, their meanings, and the appropriate actions to take when they illuminate. By familiarizing yourself with these indicators, you'll be better equipped to respond to your vehicle's needs and ensure a safer driving experience.

Light ColorMeaning
RedUrgent issue, immediate action required
Yellow/OrangeCaution, service may be needed soon
Green/BlueNormal operation or feature activated

Critical Red Warning Lights

Red warning lights on your Honda Accord's dashboard indicate serious issues that require immediate attention. These lights should never be ignored, as they often relate to critical systems that affect your vehicle's safety and performance. Here are some of the most important red warning lights you may encounter:

Check Engine Light

The check engine light, represented by an engine-shaped icon, is one of the most recognizable dashboard symbols. When illuminated in red, it indicates a severe engine problem that needs immediate attention. This could be related to issues such as:

  • Engine misfire
  • Catalytic converter failure
  • Severe fuel system malfunction
  • Major electrical system issues

If you see the red check engine light, it's crucial to pull over safely and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive could cause extensive damage to your Honda Accord's engine. Contact a professional mechanic or your nearest Honda dealership for assistance.

Oil Pressure Warning Light

The oil pressure warning light resembles an oil can and indicates dangerously low oil pressure or inadequate oil levels. Low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage within minutes, so immediate action is necessary. If this light comes on while driving:

  • Pull over safely and turn off the engine immediately
  • Check the oil level using the dipstick
  • If the oil level is low, add the appropriate type and amount of oil
  • If the oil level is normal, do not restart the engine

Regardless of the oil level, it's best to have your Honda Accord towed to a mechanic for inspection, as there could be an underlying issue with the oil pump or other components of the lubrication system.

Battery Charge Warning Light

The battery charge warning light, which looks like a battery symbol, indicates a problem with your vehicle's charging system. This could be due to:

  • A failing alternator
  • A loose or damaged drive belt
  • Corroded battery terminals
  • A dying battery

If this light illuminates while driving, turn off all non-essential electrical components (like the radio and air conditioning) to reduce the load on the battery. Try to reach a safe location or service center quickly, as your Honda Accord may soon lose power and stop running.

Brake System Warning Light

The brake system warning light is typically represented by an exclamation point inside a circle. This critical warning can indicate several serious issues:

  • Low brake fluid levels
  • Brake pad wear beyond the safe limit
  • Malfunction in the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Engaged parking brake (in some models)

If this light comes on while driving and the parking brake is not engaged, it's crucial to pull over safely and check the brake fluid level. If the level is low, do not continue driving, as your brakes may fail. Have your Honda Accord towed to a mechanic for a thorough inspection of the brake system.

Temperature Warning Light

The temperature warning light, often depicted as a thermometer symbol, indicates that your engine is overheating. This is a critical situation that can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed immediately. When this light illuminates:

  • Pull over safely and turn off the engine
  • Allow the engine to cool down (this may take 15-30 minutes)
  • Check the coolant level in the reservoir (only when the engine has cooled)
  • Look for visible leaks in the cooling system

Never attempt to open the radiator cap when the engine is hot, as this can cause severe burns. If the coolant level is low and you don't see any leaks, you may add coolant once the engine has cooled. However, it's best to have your Honda Accord towed to a mechanic to diagnose and fix the underlying issue.

Amber/Yellow Warning Lights

Amber or yellow warning lights in your Honda Accord typically indicate less urgent issues that still require attention. While these warnings may not demand immediate action, they should be addressed promptly to prevent more serious problems from developing. Here are some common amber/yellow warning lights you might encounter:

Check Engine Light (Amber)

When the check engine light appears in amber rather than red, it suggests a less critical issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Common causes include:

  • Loose or faulty gas cap
  • Minor electrical system issues
  • Oxygen sensor malfunction
  • Catalytic converter efficiency below threshold

While you may not need to stop driving immediately, it's advisable to have your Honda Accord checked by a mechanic soon. Ignoring this warning could lead to decreased fuel efficiency, reduced performance, or more severe engine problems over time.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light

The TPMS light, which looks like an exclamation point inside a horseshoe shape, indicates that one or more of your tires have low air pressure. Proper tire inflation is crucial for:

  • Optimal fuel efficiency
  • Even tire wear
  • Safe handling and braking

When this light comes on, check your tire pressures as soon as possible and inflate them to the recommended levels found in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb. If the light persists after proper inflation, there may be a problem with the TPMS sensor or a slow leak in one of your tires.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light

The ABS warning light typically appears as the letters "ABS" enclosed in a circle. This light indicates a potential issue with your Honda Accord's anti-lock braking system. While your regular brakes should still function, the anti-lock feature may be compromised, which could affect your ability to brake safely in emergency situations, especially on slippery surfaces.

If this light comes on, it's best to have your ABS system checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. The issue could be related to a faulty wheel speed sensor, ABS module, or other components of the system.

Maintenance Required Indicator

The maintenance required indicator is usually represented by a wrench symbol. This light is not typically related to a specific problem but serves as a reminder that your Honda Accord is due for scheduled maintenance. The light may come on based on:

  • Mileage driven since the last service
  • Time elapsed since the last maintenance
  • Engine run time

When this light appears, consult your owner's manual for the appropriate maintenance schedule and have your vehicle serviced accordingly. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your Honda Accord running smoothly and preventing more serious issues from developing.

Electronic Power Steering (EPS) System Warning Light

The EPS warning light, often shown as a steering wheel symbol with an exclamation point, indicates a potential issue with your Honda Accord's power steering system. This could result in:

  • Increased steering effort
  • Inconsistent steering feel
  • Complete loss of power steering assistance

While you may still be able to steer your vehicle, it will require more effort, especially at lower speeds. If this light comes on, it's advisable to have your Honda Accord's power steering system inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible.

Green and Blue Information Lights

Green and blue lights on your Honda Accord's dashboard typically provide information about normal vehicle operations or activated features. These lights are not warnings but rather indicators to keep you informed about various systems in your car. Here are some common green and blue information lights you might see:

Cruise Control Indicator

The cruise control indicator is usually represented by a speedometer symbol with an arrow. This green light illuminates when the cruise control system is activated, allowing you to maintain a constant speed without keeping your foot on the accelerator pedal. Remember that cruise control should only be used on open highways with consistent traffic flow.

Turn Signal Indicators

The turn signal indicators are typically green arrows pointing left and right. These lights flash in sync with your external turn signals when activated, confirming that your turn signals are functioning correctly. If you notice that one of these indicators is flashing faster than usual, it may indicate a burnt-out bulb on that side of your vehicle.

High Beam Indicator

The high beam indicator is usually a blue light depicting a headlight symbol with lines emanating from it. This light comes on when your high beam headlights are activated. Always remember to switch back to low beams when approaching oncoming traffic or following other vehicles closely to avoid blinding other drivers.

Eco Mode Indicator

Many Honda Accord models feature an Eco mode indicator, typically a green leaf symbol. This light illuminates when the vehicle's Eco mode is activated, indicating that the car is operating in a more fuel-efficient manner. Eco mode may adjust throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control settings to maximize fuel economy.

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) Indicator

The LKAS indicator is usually represented by a car icon between two lane lines. This green light indicates that the Lane Keeping Assist System is active and helping to keep your Honda Accord centered in its lane. The system uses cameras to detect lane markings and can provide subtle steering inputs to help maintain your position on the road.

FAQs About Honda Accord Dashboard Warning Lights & Symbols

  • What should I do if multiple warning lights come on simultaneously?
    Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and call for professional assistance. Multiple warnings could indicate a serious issue.
  • Can I reset dashboard warning lights myself?
    Some lights reset automatically after addressing the issue. For persistent lights, consult your owner's manual or a mechanic.
  • How often should I expect to see the maintenance required light?
    This depends on your driving habits and model year, but typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 to 12 months.
  • Is it safe to drive with the check engine light on?
    If it's amber, you can drive short distances, but have it checked soon. If it's red, stop driving immediately.
  • What does it mean if a warning light flashes instead of staying solid?
    Flashing usually indicates a more severe or urgent problem. Consult your manual or a mechanic immediately.