Cluster Guide: 2011 Cadillac SRX Dashboard Indicators Meanings
A 2011 Cadillac SRX’s dashboard has several indicators that tell you important things about the car’s state and performance. To drive safely and efficiently, you need to know what these Car dashboard symbols mean. Each symbol, like engine trouble lights, low tire pressure alerts, or maintenance notes, sends a specific message that drivers need to understand correctly. This complete guide tries to decode the meanings behind the Cadillac 2011 SRX dashboard indicators so that drivers can easily navigate their car’s diagnostics and enjoy a smooth driving experience.
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Instrument Cluster
Speedometer
The speedometer shows the vehicle’s speed in either kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph).
Odometer
The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven, in either kilometers or miles.
This vehicle has a tamper-resistant odometer. If the vehicle needs a new odometer installed, the new one is set to the mileage of the old odometer. If this is not possible, it is set at zero and a label is put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading.
Tachometer
The tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm).
Notice: If the engine is operated with the tachometer in the shaded Vehicle warning lights area, the vehicle could be damaged, and the damages would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the shaded warning area.
Fuel Gauge
When the ignition is on, the fuel gauge indicates how much fuel is left in the tank. An arrow on the fuel gauge indicates the side of the vehicle the fuel door is on.
When the indicator is empty, the low fuel light comes on. There still is a little fuel left, but the vehicle should be refueled soon.
Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with the fuel gauge:
- At the service station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gauge reads full.
- It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gauge indicated. For example, the gauge may have indicated the tank was half full, but it took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank.
- The gauge moves a little while turning a corner or speeding up.
- The gauge takes a few seconds to stabilize after the ignition is turned on, and goes back to empty when the ignition is turned off.
Fuel Economy Gauge (3.0L Only)
The gauge shows the fuel usage that the vehicle is currently achieving in MPG and in liters per 100 kilometers (¹/100 km).
- MIN/20: This is when the least efficient fuel economy usually occurs during acceleration or when idling.
- MAX/¹/100: This is when the best fuel economy is being achieved.
This gauge moves often as it is an instantaneous calculation based on current driving conditions.
Turbo Gauge (2.8L Only)
For vehicles with a turbo gauge, it indicates when the vehicle is using turbo power. When the needle is at rest at the left of the gauge, the turbo is not being used.
As the accelerator peddle is pressed the needle may move to the right. This is normal and means that the vehicle is using turbo power. Under normal conditions, the needle will not display a reading in red.
Once the driver eases off the accelerator pedal or the transmission shifts, the needle moves back into the left area of the gauge.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
This gauge measures the temperature of the vehicle’s engine. If the indicator needle moves into the shaded area, the engine is too hot.
While driving under normal operating conditions, if the needle moves into the shaded area, the engine is too hot. Pull off the road, stop the vehicle, and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
Safety Belt Reminders
Driver Safety Belt Reminder Light
There is a driver safety belt reminder light on the instrument panel cluster.
When the vehicle is started this light flashes and a chime comes on to remind drivers to fasten their safety belts. Then the light stays on solid until the belt is buckled.
This cycle may continue several times if the driver remains or becomes unbuckled while driving while the vehicle is moving. If the driver safety belt is already buckled, neither the light nor the chime comes on.
Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light
When the vehicle is started this light flashes and a chime may come on to remind the front passenger to fasten their safety belt. Then the light stays on solid until the belt is buckled.
This cycle may continue several times if the passenger remains or becomes unbuckled while the vehicle is moving.
If the passenger safety belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light comes on.
The front passenger safety belt warning light and chime may turn on if an object is put on the seat such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop, or other electronic device. To turn off the warning light and/or chime, remove the object from the seat or buckle the safety belt.
Second Row Passenger Belt Reminder Light
When the engine is started and the Trip/Fuel display is chosen, three gray safety belt symbols come on and stay on for several seconds on the top of the Driver Information Center (DIC) to remind passengers to fasten their safety belts. If the Vehicle Information is selected, a full-page screen displays at start-up the three safety belt symbols.
Once the passenger safety belt is buckled, the corresponding safety belt symbol in the DIC turns green. There are no seat position sensors in the seat, nor safety belt reminder sensor pads. If a safety belt is not initially buckled, the cluster continues to show the gray safety belt icon.
While the vehicle is moving, if a second-row passenger who was previously buckled becomes unbuckled, a full-screen warning displays with the corresponding safety belt indicator flashing red. A chime may sound.
Acknowledge warning messages by pressing any of the DIC buttons.
Airbag Readiness Light
This light shows if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensor, the pretensioners, the airbag modules, the wiring, and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System on pages 3‑30.
The airbag readiness light comes on and stays on for several seconds when the vehicle is started. Then the light goes out.
WARNING
If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on while driving, it means the airbag system might not be working properly. The airbags in the vehicle might not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury, have the vehicle serviced right away.
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
The vehicle has a passenger sensing system. See Passenger Sensing System on pages 3‑39 for important safety information.
The overhead console has a passenger airbag status indicator.
When the vehicle is started, the passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds as a system check. If you are using remote start, if equipped, to start the vehicle from a distance you may not see the system check.
Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either the on or off symbol to let you know the status of the right front passenger frontal and seat‐mounted side impact airbag. If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the right front passenger frontal airbag and seat‐mounted side impact airbag are enabled (may inflate).
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal and seat‐mounted side impact airbag.
If, after several seconds, both status indicator lights remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing system.
See your dealer for service.
WARNING
If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑17 for more information, including important safety information.
Charging System Light
The charging system light comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show the light is working. The light turns off when the engine is started. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.
If the light stays on or comes on while driving, there may be a problem with the electrical charging system. Have it checked by your dealer. Driving while this light is on could drain the battery.
When this light comes on, the Driver Information Center (DIC) also displays a message. See Battery Voltage and Charging Messages on pages 5‑34. If a short distance must be driven with the light on, be sure to turn off all accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
A computer system called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) monitors the operation of the fuel, ignition, and emission control systems. It ensures that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment.
This light should come on when the ignition is on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on and stays on while the engine is running, this indicates that there is an OBD II problem and service is required. Malfunctions often are indicated by the system before any problem becomes apparent. Being aware of the light can prevent more serious damage to the vehicle. This system assists the service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.
Notice: If the vehicle is continually driven with this light on the emission controls might not work as well, the vehicle fuel economy might not be as good, and the engine might not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Notice: Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of the vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect the vehicle’s emission controls and can cause this light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty.
This could also fail to pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3.
This light comes on during a malfunction in one of two ways:
Light Flashing: A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and could damage the emission control system on the vehicle. Diagnosis and service might be required.
To prevent more serious damage to the vehicle:
- Reduce vehicle speed.
- Avoid hard accelerations.
- Avoid steep uphill grades.
- If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park the vehicle. Turn the vehicle off, wait at least 10 seconds, and restart the engine. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps and see your dealer for service as soon as possible.
Light On Steady: An emission control system malfunction has been detected on the vehicle.
Diagnosis and service might be required.
The following may correct an emissions system malfunction:
- Make sure the fuel cap is fully installed. See Filling the Tank on page 9‑52. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap allows fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off.
- Make sure the electrical system is not wet. The system could be wet if the vehicle was driven through a deep puddle of water. The condition is usually corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
- Make sure to fuel the vehicle with quality fuel. Poor fuel quality causes the engine not to run as efficiently as designed and can cause: stalling after start-up, stalling when the vehicle is changed into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. These conditions might go away once the engine is warmed up.
If one or more of these conditions occur, change the fuel brand used. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. See Recommended Fuel on page 9‑48.
If none of the above has made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. The dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that might have developed.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
Some state/provincial and local governments may have programs to inspect the on-vehicle emission control equipment. For the inspection, the emission system test equipment is connected to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).
The DLC is under the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. See your dealer if assistance is needed.
The vehicle may not pass inspection if:
- The malfunction indicator lamp is on with the engine running, or if the light does not come on when the ignition is turned to ON/RUN while the engine is off.
- The critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed by the system. This can happen if the battery has recently been replaced or if the battery has run down. The diagnostic system evaluates critical emission control systems during normal driving. This can take several days of routine driving. If this has been done and the vehicle still does not pass the inspection, your dealer can prepare the vehicle for inspection.
Brake System Warning Light
The vehicle brake system consists of two hydraulic circuits. If one circuit is not working, the remaining circuit can still work to stop the vehicle. For normal braking performance, both circuits need to be working. If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem. Have the brake system inspected right away.
The brake indicator light should come on briefly as the engine is started. If it does not come on have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.
WARNING
The brake system might not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to a crash. If the light is still on after the vehicle has been pulled off the road and carefully stopped, have the vehicle towed for service.
If the light comes on while driving, a chime sounds. Pull off the road and stop. The pedal might be harder to push or go closer to the floor. It might also take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing the Vehicle on page 10‑101.
Electric Parking Brake Light
For vehicles with the Electric Parking Brake (EPB), this light should come on briefly as the engine is started. If it does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.
The parking brake status light comes on when the brake is applied. If the light continues flashing after the parking brake is released, or while driving, there is a problem with the Electric Parking Brake system. A SERVICE PARKING BRAKE message may also be displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Brake System Messages on pages 5‑34 for more information.
If the light does not come on or remains flashing, see your dealer.
For vehicles with the EPB, the brake warning light should come on briefly when the engine is started. If it does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If this light comes on, there is a problem with a system on the vehicle that is causing the parking brake system to work at a reduced level. The vehicle can still be driven but should be taken to a dealer as soon as possible. See Parking Brake on pages 9‑31 for more information.
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
For vehicles with the Antilock Brake System (ABS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If the light does not come on, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn if there is a problem.
If the ABS light comes on and stays on while driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Start the engine again to reset the system. If the light stays on after driving at a speed above 20 km/h (13 mph), see your dealer for service. A chime may also sound when the light comes on steady. If the regular brake system warning light is not on, the vehicle still has brakes, but not antilock brakes.
If the regular brake system warning light is also on, the vehicle does not have antilock brakes and there is a problem with the regular brakes. See Brake System Warning Light on pages 5‑22.
See Brake System Messages on pages 5‑34 for all brake‐related DIC messages.
Traction Off Light
This light comes on briefly while starting the engine. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally, the indicator light then turns off.
The traction off light comes on when the Traction Control System (TCS) has been turned off by pressing and releasing the traction control button. This light and the StabiliTrak Off light come on when StabiliTrak is turned off.
If the Traction Control System (TCS) is off, the wheelspin is not limited. Adjust driving accordingly. See Traction Control System (TCS) on pages 9‑34 and StabiliTrak® System on pages 9‑36 for more information.
StabiliTrak® OFF Light
This light comes on when the StabiliTrak system is turned off by pressing the StabiliTrak/TCS button. If the Traction Control System (TCS) is off, wheel spin is not limited.
When the StabiliTrak system is off, the system does not assist in controlling the vehicle. Adjust driving accordingly.
The warning light goes off when traction control and the StabiliTrak system are enabled.
See Traction Control System (TCS) on pages 9‑34 and StabiliTrak® System on pages 9‑36 for more information.
Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light
The StabiliTrak system or the Traction Control System (TCS) indicator/warning light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If the light does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by the dealer. If the system is working normally, the indicator light turns off. If the light is on and not flashing, the TCS, and potentially the StabiliTrak system have been disabled. A DIC message may be displayed. Check the DIC messages to determine which feature(s) is no longer functioning and whether the vehicle requires service.
If the indicator/warning light is on and flashing, the TCS and/or the StabiliTrak system is actively working.
See StabiliTrak® System on page 9‑36 and Traction Control System (TCS) on page 9‑34 for more information.
Tire Pressure Light
For vehicles with the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. It provides information about tire pressures and the TPMS.
When the Light is On Steady
This indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated.
A tire pressure message can accompany the light. See Tire Messages on page 5‑41 for more information. Stop as soon as possible, and inflate the tires to the pressure value shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑63 for more information.
When the Light Flashes First and Then is On a Steady
This indicates that there may be a problem with the TPMS. The light flashes for about a minute and stays on steady for the remainder of the ignition cycle. This sequence repeats with every ignition cycle. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on pages 10‑67 for more information.
Engine Oil Pressure Light
WARNING
Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is low. The engine can become so hot that it catches fire. Someone could be burned. Check the oil as soon as possible and have the vehicle serviced.
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always follow the maintenance schedule for changing engine oil.
The oil pressure light should come on briefly as the engine is started. If it does not come on have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the light comes on and stays on, it means that oil is not flowing through the engine properly. The vehicle could be low on oil and might have some other system problem. See your dealer.
Fuel Economy Light
For vehicles with the fuel economy mode light, it comes on when the eco (economy) switch, located next to the shift lever, is pressed. Press the switch again to turn off the light and exit the fuel-saver mode. See Driving for Better Fuel Economy on pages 1‑26 for more information.
Low Fuel Warning Light
This light is located near the fuel gauge and comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on as a check to show it is working.
It also comes on when the fuel tank is low on fuel. The light turns off when fuel is added. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced.
Security Light
This light flashes when the security system is activated.
For more information, see Vehicle Security on pages 2‑18.
High-Beam On Light
This light comes on when the high-beam headlamps are in use. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 6‑2 for more information.
Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Light
This light comes on solid when there is a problem with the Adaptive Forward Lighting system and flashes when the system is switching between lighting modes. See Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) on page 6‑3 for more information.
Front Fog Lamp Light
The fog lamp light comes on when the fog lamps are in use. The light goes out when the fog lamps are turned off. See Front Fog Lamps on pages 6‑6 for more information.
Lamps On Reminder
For vehicles with the lamps on reminder light, it comes on when the lights are in use.
Cruise Control Light
The cruise control light is white whenever the cruise control is set, and turns green when the cruise control is active.
The light turns off when the cruise control is turned off. See Cruise Control on pages 9‑38 for more information.
FAQs
In the 2011 Cadillac SRX, the “Check Engine Light” indicates a potential issue with the engine or emissions system that requires attention.
The “Oil Pressure Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates low oil pressure, which could lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
The “TPMS Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX alerts the driver when one or more tires have low air pressure, potentially affecting safety and fuel efficiency.
The “Battery Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX warns of a charging system malfunction or low battery voltage, which could lead to starting or electrical issues.
The “Brake System Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates a potential problem with the braking system, such as low brake fluid or brake pad wear.
The “ABS Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX alerts the driver to an issue with the anti-lock braking system, which helps prevent skidding during sudden stops.
The “Service Vehicle Soon Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates a non-specific issue with the vehicle that requires attention from a qualified mechanic.
The “Stability Control/Traction Control Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates a problem with the vehicle’s stability control or traction control systems, which help maintain control during slippery conditions.
The “Engine Temperature Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX warns of an overheating engine, which could lead to serious damage if not addressed promptly.
The “Low Fuel Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX alerts the driver when the fuel level is low, indicating the need to refuel soon.
The “Airbag Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates a problem with the vehicle’s airbag system, which may not deploy properly in the event of a collision.
The “Cruise Control Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates that the cruise control system is active and set to maintain a constant speed.
The “Security Indicator Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates that the vehicle’s security system is armed and active.
The “Service Park Assist Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates a problem with the vehicle’s parking assist system, which helps detect obstacles when parking.
The “Lane Departure Warning Light” in the 2011 Cadillac SRX indicates that the vehicle is drifting out of its lane without signaling, prompting the driver to take corrective action.
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