Chevy Equinox Dashboard Symbols and Meanings
Every Equinox dashboard uses a common language of colored warning lights — amber for non-critical issues that still need attention, and red for urgent problems that need action right away.
Jump to a section: What the colors mean · Most common symbols · Symbols that mean stop driving · Quick reference table · FAQ
What the Colors Mean
Green or blue symbols simply confirm a feature is switched on, amber/yellow symbols flag a non-critical fault or maintenance item, and red symbols indicate an urgent or critical issue that needs immediate attention.
Most Common Symbols
The check engine light is an amber engine-shaped icon that can mean anything from a loose gas cap to a serious drivetrain issue, and it means your onboard diagnostic system has logged a fault code worth scanning. The battery warning light looks like a small rectangular battery and usually points to a charging system problem, most often the alternator. The tire pressure warning appears as an exclamation point inside a tire cross-section and means one or more tires has significantly low pressure. The oil pressure warning resembles an oil can and signals low oil pressure, which can cause serious engine damage within minutes if ignored.
Symbols That Mean Stop Driving
A red oil pressure light, a red brake warning light, or a red engine temperature light all mean you should pull over safely as soon as possible rather than continuing to drive, since these indicate problems that can cause immediate mechanical damage or safety risk.
Quick Reference Table
| Symbol | Color | Meaning | Urgency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check Engine | Amber | Diagnostic fault detected | Get scanned soon |
| Battery | Red/Amber | Charging system issue | Address promptly |
| Tire Pressure (TPMS) | Amber | Low tire pressure | Check tires soon |
| Oil Pressure | Red | Low oil pressure | Stop driving |
| Brake Warning | Red | Brake system fault | Stop driving |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first when a warning light comes on?
Check your owner's manual for that specific symbol, since the same-looking light can carry a different meaning across model years, and consider a code scan if it's the check engine light.
Is it safe to keep driving with the check engine light on?
Usually yes for short trips if the light is steady rather than flashing, but a flashing check engine light means a more serious misfire is occurring and driving should be minimized until it's diagnosed.
Why does the battery light come on even with a new battery?
The battery warning light monitors the charging system as a whole, so it can illuminate due to a failing alternator or a bad connection even when the battery itself is fine.
Can I reset a warning light myself?
Some, like the tire pressure light, can be reset after correcting the underlying issue, while others like the check engine light typically require a code scan and repair before they clear on their own.
Shop the Parts Mentioned
- Wireless Scanner — reads and clears check engine codes.
- Bidirectional Scanner — supports deeper diagnostics on multiple warning systems.
- DTI-13G Digital Tire Inflator — corrects low tire pressure behind the TPMS light.
- ACDelco GM OE dexos1 GEN 2 Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil (1 qt) — keeps oil pressure in a healthy range.
- Taylor Battery Cable Terminal Kit — addresses loose connections behind battery warning lights.