Indicators Guide: 2020 Nissan GT-R Warning Lights Explained
A perfect example of automotive engineering, the 2020 Nissan GT-R combines cutting-edge technology, performance, and power in a seamless package. Being a high-performance sports vehicle, it has an advanced set of warning lights and indicators that are meant to convey important information to the driver. Comprehending these visual signals is essential to preserving the car’s best performance and guaranteeing a thrilling and safe driving experience. We will explore the complex world of the 2020 Nissan GT-R’s warning lights in this in-depth guide, deciphering their meanings and offering guidance on what to do when these indicators illuminate. This examination of warning lights will be a useful tool for understanding the dashboard language of your GT-R, regardless of whether you’re an enthusiast discovering its potential or a proud owner of this legendary vehicle.
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WARNING LIGHTS, INDICATOR LIGHTS AND AUDIBLE REMINDERS
All-wheel drive (AWD) warning light
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light
Brake warning light
Charge warning light
Engine oil pressure warning light Intelligent Key warning light
Low tire pressure warning light
Master warning light
Seat belt warning light
Supplemental air bag warning light
Transmission warning light
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning light
Cruise main switch indicator light
Cruise set switch indicator light Exterior light indicator
Exterior light indicator
Front passenger airbag status light
High beam indicator light
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off
indicator light
CHECKING LIGHTS
With all doors closed, apply the parking brake, fasten the seat belts and place the ignition switch in the ON position without starting the engine. The following lights (if so equipped) will come on:
The following lights (if so equipped) will come on briefly and then go off:
If any light does not come on or operates in a way other than described, it may indicate a burned-out bulb and/or a system malfunction. It is recommended you have the system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
WARNING LIGHTS
All-wheel drive (AWD) warning light
The warning light comes on when the ignition switch is pushed to ON. It turns off soon after the engine is started.
If the AWD system malfunctions, the warning light will either remain illuminate or blink.
CAUTION
- If the warning light comes on while driving there may be a malfunction in the AWD system. Reduce the vehicle speed and have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. It is recommended that you have the vehicle checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
- If the AWD warning light blinks on when you are driving:
- blinks rapidly (about twice a second):
Pull off the road in a safe area, and idle the engine. The driving mode will change to RWD to prevent the AWD system from malfunctioning. If the warning light turns off, you can drive again. This does not indicate that there is a malfunction. - blinks slowly (about once every 2 seconds):
Pull off the road in a safe area, and idle the engine. Check that all tire sizes are the same as that specified on the Tire and Loading Information label located in the driver’s door opening, tire pressure is correct and tires are not worn. If the tyre pressure is insufficient, fill it with nitrogen gas. It is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer about filling with nitrogen gas. If nitrogen gas is not available, compressed air may be safely used under normal driving conditions. However, NISSAN recommends refilling with nitrogen gas for maximum tyre performance.
- blinks rapidly (about twice a second):
- If the warning light is still on after the above operations, have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. It is recommended you have the vehicle checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light illuminates and then turns off. This indicates the ABS is operational.
If the ABS warning light illuminates while the engine is running, or while driving, it may indicate the ABS is not functioning properly. It is recommended you have the system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
If an ABS malfunction occurs, the anti-lock function is turned off. The brake system then operates normally but without anti-lock assistance.
Brake warning light
This light functions for both the parking brake and the foot brake systems.
Parking brake indicator:
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the light comes on when the parking brake is applied.
Low brake fluid warning light:
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the light warns of a low brake fluid level. If the light comes on while the engine is running with the parking brake not applied, stop the vehicle and perform the following:
- Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid as necessary.
- If the brake fluid level is correct, it is recommended you have the warning system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning indicator:
When the parking brake is released and the brake fluid level is sufficient, if both the brake warning light and the Anti-lock.
Braking System (ABS) warning light is illuminated, it may indicate the ABS is not functioning properly. It is recommended you have the brake system checked, and if necessary repaired, by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer promptly.
Brake pad wear warning indicator
(models with NCCB (NISSAN Carbon Ceramic Brake) package):
When the brake warning light illuminates, it may indicate that there is brake pad wear. Have the brake system checked and brake pads replaced as soon as possible. It is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer for this service.
CAUTION
Never drive for a long period when the brake warning light illuminates for brake pad wear warning indicator is illuminated. Otherwise, the brake may not function properly due to brake pad wear.
WARNING
- Your brake system may not be working properly if the warning light is on. Driving could be dangerous. If you judge it to be safe, drive carefully to the nearest service station for repairs. Otherwise, have your vehicle towed because driving it could be dangerous.
- Pressing the brake pedal with the engine stopped and/or low brake fluid level may increase your stopping distance and braking will require greater pedal effort as well as pedal travel.
- If the brake fluid level is below the minimum or MIN mark on the brake fluid reservoir, do not drive until the brake system has been checked. It is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
Charge warning light
If the light comes on while the engine is running, it may indicate the charging system is not functioning properly. Turn the engine off and check the alternator belt. If the belt is loose, broken, or missing or if the light remains on, it is recommended you see a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer immediately.
NOTICE
Do not continue driving if the alternator belt is loose, broken or missing.
Engine oil pressure warning light
This light warns of low engine oil pressure. If the light flickers or comes on during normal driving, pull off the road in a safe area and stop the engine immediately. It is recommended you call a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
The engine oil pressure warning light is not designed to indicate a low oil level. Check the vehicle information display or use the dipstick to check the oil level.
NOTICE
Running the engine with the engine oil pressure warning light on could cause serious damage to the engine almost immediately. Turn off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so.
Intelligent Key warning light
After the ignition switch is pushed to the ON position, this light comes on for about 2 seconds and then turns off.
This light warns of a malfunction with the electrical steering lock system or the Intelligent Key system.
If the light comes on while the engine is stopped, it may be impossible to free the steering lock or to start the engine. If the light comes on while the engine is running, you can drive the vehicle. However, in these cases, it is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer for repair as soon as possible.
Low tyre pressure warning light
Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors the tire pressure of all tires.
The low tyre pressure warning light warns of low tyre pressure and flat tyre or indicates that the TPMS is not functioning properly.
After the ignition switch is pushed to the ON position, the warning light illuminates for about 1 second and turns off.
Low tyre pressure warning:
If the vehicle is being driven with low tyre pressure, the warning light will illuminate.
When the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, you should stop and adjust the tire pressure of all 4 wheels to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label located in the driver’s door opening.
The low tyre pressure warning light does not automatically turn off when the tyre pressure is adjusted. After the tyre is inflated to the recommended pressure, the vehicle must be driven at speeds above 16 MPH (25 km/h) to activate the TPMS and turn off the low tyre pressure warning light. Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the tyre pressure.
Run-flat tyre warning:
The run-flat tyre warning warns of a flat tyre.
If the vehicle is being driven with one or more flat tyres, the warning light will illuminate continuously and a chime will sound for 10 seconds.
The chime will only sound at the first indication of a flat tire and the warning light will illuminate continuously. When the flat tyre warning is activated, it is recommended you have the system reset and the tyre checked and replaced if necessary by a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. Even if the tyre is inflated to the specified COLD tyre pressure, the warning light will continue to illuminate until the system is reset.
If you select the tyre pressure information in the touch screen display, the warning screen will be displayed. The tyre pressure for each tyre will also be displayed.
Your vehicle can be driven for a limited time on a flat tyre.
TPMS malfunction:
If the TPMS is not functioning properly, the low tyre pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute when the ignition switch is pushed to the ON position. The light will remain on after the 1 minute. It is recommended you have the system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
WARNING
- If the light does not illuminate with the ignition switch pushed to the ON position, it is recommended that you have the vehicle checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer as soon as possible.
- If the light illuminates while driving, avoid sudden steering maneuvers or abrupt braking, reduce vehicle speed, pull off the road to a safe location and stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Driving with under-inflated tyres may permanently damage the tyres and increase the likelihood of tyre failure. Serious vehicle damage could occur and may lead to an accident and could result in serious personal injury. Check the tire pressure for all four tyres. Adjust the tire pressure to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label located in the driver’s door opening to turn the low tyre pressure warning light off. If the light still illuminates while driving after adjusting the tyre pressure, a tire may be flat or the TPMS may be malfunctioning. If no tyre is flat and all tyres are properly inflated, it is recommended you have the vehicle checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
- Although you can continue driving with a punctured run-flat tyre, remember that vehicle handling stability is reduced, which could lead to an accident and personal injury. Also, driving a long distance at high speeds may damage the tyres.
- Do not drive at speeds above 50 MPH (80 km/h) and do not drive more than 50 miles (80 km) with a punctured run-flat tire. The actual distance the vehicle can be driven on a flat tyre depends on outside temperature, vehicle load, road conditions and other factors.
- If you detect any unusual sounds or vibrations while driving with a punctured run-flat tyre, pull off the road to a safe location and stop the vehicle as soon as possible. The tyre may be seriously damaged and need to be replaced.
- When a wheel is replaced, the TPMS will not function and the low tyre pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute. The light will remain on after the 1 minute. It is recommended that you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer as soon as possible for tyre replacement and/or system resetting.
- Replacing tyres with those not originally specified by NISSAN could affect the proper operation of the TPMS.
CAUTION
- The TPMS is not a substitute for the regular tyre pressure check. Be sure to check the tyre pressure regularly.
- Be sure to install the specified size of tyres on the four wheels.
NOTE:
- If the vehicle is being driven at speeds of less than 16 MPH (25 km/h), the TPMS may not operate correctly.
- The tyres of this vehicle are filled with nitrogen gas. When the tire pressure is low, fill the tyres with nitrogen gas. It is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer for information on filling the tyres with nitrogen gas.
Master warning light
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the master warning light illuminates if any of the warning displays appear on the vehicle information display.
Seat belt warning light and chime
The light and chime remind you to fasten seat belts. The light illuminates whenever the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, and will remain illuminated until the driver’s seat belt is fastened. At the same time, the chime will sound for about 6 seconds unless the driver’s seat belt is securely fastened.
The seat belt warning light for the front passenger will illuminate if the seat belt is not fastened when the front passenger’s seat is occupied. For approximately 5 seconds after the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the system does not activate the warning light for the front passenger.
Supplemental air bag warning light
After pushing the ignition switch to the ON position, the supplemental air bag warning light will illuminate for about 7 seconds and then turn off. This means the system is operational.
If any of the following conditions occur, the front airbag, side airbag, curtain airbag and pretensioner systems need servicing and it is recommended your vehicle be taken to a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer.
- The supplemental air bag warning light remains on after approximately 7 seconds.
- The supplemental air bag warning light flashes intermittently.
- The supplemental air bag warning light does not come on at all.
Unless checked and repaired, the supple-mental restraint system (air bag system) and/or the pretensioners may not func-tion properly.
WARNING
If the supplemental airbag warning light is on, it could mean that the front airbag, side airbag, curtain airbag and/or pretensioner systems will not operate in an accident. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle checked. It is recommended you visit a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer for this service.
Transmission warning light
This light warns of the following malfunctions.
Transmission system malfunction:
The light blinks if a malfunction in the transmission system occurs. If the light blinks, certain gear positions may become unusable, so the vehicle may become undrivable. It is recommended you have the system inspected promptly by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
Transmission oil temperature high:
The light illuminates if the transmission oil temperature becomes unusually high. If the light illuminates, avoid driving at high speed or at high engine speed until the light turns off. The light will turn off after a short time and the vehicle can then be driven normally. If the light illuminates frequently, it is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
NOTICE
If the light continues to illuminate, the engine output may be reduced to prevent transmission damage.
Transmission clutch temperature high:
The light illuminates if the clutch temperature becomes unusually high. If the light illuminates, pull off the road in a safe area and idle the engine. When the light turns off, driving can be resumed. If the light illuminates frequently, it is recommended you contact a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
NOTICE
- Continuing to drive with the light on could cause serious damage to the transmission.
- If the light continues to illuminate, the vehicle cannot be driven because the engine output may be reduced and the clutch may be reduced to keep the clutch disengaged.
R mode start function:
If the R mode start function is used 4 times continuously, the function may be disabled and cannot be turned on for protection. While the function is disabled, the warning light illuminates. When the warning light goes off, the function can be used again.
When the warning light illuminates, perform cooldown driving (driving 1.3 miles (2 km) in 5th or 6th gear at a speed of approximately 37 – 50 MPH (60 – 80 km/h) while checking the temperature of the transmission oil until the warning light goes off.
NOTICE
While the warning light is illuminated, the engine output is controlled so that it does not increase.
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) warning light
The light will blink when the VDC system or the traction control system is operat-ing, thus alerting the driver that the vehicle is nearing its traction limits. The road surface may be slippery.
If the VDC warning light illuminates when the VDC system is turned on, this light alerts the driver to the fact that the VDC system’s fail-safe mode is operating, for example, the VDC or hill start assist system may not be functioning properly. It is recommended you have the system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer. If a malfunction occurs in the system, the VDC system function will be cancelled but the vehicle is still driveable.
INDICATOR LIGHTS
Cruise main switch indicator light
The light comes on when the cruise control is pushed. The light turns off when the main switch is pushed again. While the cruise control system main switch indicator light is on, the cruise control system is operational.
Cruise set switch indicator light
The light comes on while the vehicle speed is controlled by the cruise control system. If the light blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate the cruise control system is not functioning properly. It is recommended you have the system checked by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer.
Exterior light indicator
This indicator illuminates when the headlight switch is turned to the AUTO, or position and the front parking lights, instrument panel lights, rear combination lights, license plate lights or headlights are on. The indicator turns off when these lights are turned off.
Front passenger airbag status light
The front passenger airbag status light () will be lit and the passenger front airbag will be OFF depending on how the front passenger seat is being used.
High beam indicator light
This light comes on when the headlight’s high beam is on and goes out when the low beam is selected.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
If the malfunction indicator light comes on steady or blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate a potential emission control or the muffler with electronic control valve (if so equipped) malfunction. The malfunction indicator light may also come on steady if the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing, or if the vehicle runs out of fuel. Check to make sure the fuel-filler cap is installed and closed tightly, and that the vehicle has at least 3 US gallons (12 litres) of fuel in the fuel tank.
After a few driving trips, the
light should turn off if no other potential emission control system malfunction exists.
If this indicator light remains on for 20 seconds and then blinks for 10 seconds when the engine is not running, it indicates that the vehicle is not ready for an emission control system inspection/maintenance test. ( “Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test (US only).
Operation:
The malfunction indicator light will come on in one of two ways:
- Malfunction indicator light on steady— An emission control system malfunction has been detected. Check the fuel-filler cap. If the fuel-filler cap is loose or missing, tighten or install the cap and continue to drive the vehicle. The light should turn off after a few driving trips. If the light does not turn off after a few driving trips, it is recommended you have the vehicle inspected by a GT-R certified NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
- Malfunction indicator light blinking —An engine misfire has been detected which may damage the emission control system.
To reduce or avoid emission control system damage:
- Do not drive at speeds above 45 MPH (72 km/h).
- Avoid hard acceleration or deceleration.
- Avoid steep uphill grades.
- If possible, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled or towed.
The malfunction indicator light may stop blinking and remain on.
It is recommended you have the vehicle inspected by a GT-R-certified NISSAN dealer. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
NOTICE
Continued vehicle operation without having the emission control system checked and repaired as necessary could lead to poor driveability, reduced fuel economy, and possible damage to the emission control sys-tem.
Turn signal/hazard indicator lights
The light flashes when the turn signal switch lever or hazard switch is turned on.
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off indicator light
When the ignition switch is in the ON position, the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) off indicator light illuminates and then turns off.
The light comes on when the VDC set-up switch is pushed to OFF for more than 1 second. This indicates that the vehicle dynamic control system and traction control sys-tem are not operating..
FAQs
A problem with the Anti-Lock Braking System is indicated by the ABS warning light. To identify and fix the issue, it is best to have the car examined by a trained mechanic.
An issue with the engine or emission control system may be indicated by the check engine light. To find and fix the problem, having the GT-
Low tire pressure is indicated by the tire pressure warning light. If the light stays on after checking and adjusting the tire pressures to the recommended levels, there might be a malfunctioning sensor or puncture.
A problem with the charging system is indicated by the battery warning light. To prevent future malfunctions, have the battery and charging system checked out right away.
When the Vehicle Dynamic Control system is manually turned off, the VDC OFF light illuminates. By using the relevant dashboard controls, it can be turned on or off.
You should refuel when the low-fuel light illuminates. It is advised against driving with low fuel to protect the fuel system.
Low oil pressure is indicated by the oil pressure warning light. Check the oil level, stop the car right away, and get help from a professional if necessary.
An overheating problem is indicated by the engine coolant temperature light. Check the coolant levels after stopping the car and letting it cool down. Seek expert assistance if the issue continues.
The airbag warning light suggests that there might be a problem with the airbag system. To address any safety concerns, have a certified technician inspect the car.
Driving while the power steering warning light is on is not advised as it may be an indication of a potential power steering system failure.
The All-Wheel Drive warning light denotes a problem with the system. Get an inspection on the car to find and fix the problem.
When the high-beam headlights are activated, the high-beam indicator merely flashes. Make sure you transition to low beams when you get close to other cars to prevent blinding other drivers.
The transmission fluid is overheating, as indicated by the transmission temperature warning light. Decrease the speed and give the transmission time to cool.
Low washer fluid levels are indicated by the washer fluid warning light on the windshield. To guarantee clear visibility while driving, replenish the washer fluid reservoir with the recommended amount of fluid.
Useful Links
View Full PDF: Nissan GT-R 2020 User Manual| Auto User Guide
2023 Nissan Altima Specs, Price, Features and Mileage (Brochure)
Instrument Panel Guide: 2020 Nissan GT-R Dashboard Instructions