Indicator Warning Lights: 2019 Cadillac Escalade Symbols Guide
The 2019 Cadillac Escalade has a lot of different signs and warning lights that are meant to keep drivers informed about how the car works and about any problems that might happen. These marks are used as a guide to help drivers get around the car’s complicated systems. Each symbol gives you important information quickly and easily, like engine trouble, low tire pressure, or possible safety risks. Understanding these signs is important for keeping your car in good shape and making sure you have a safe driving experience. Whether they’re just a friendly reminder to buckle up or a serious warning about a broken part, these symbols are very important for keeping drivers informed and improving their general awareness of the vehicle. When driving the 2019 Cadillac Escalade, getting to know these signs can make the experience much smoother and safer.
2023 Cadillac Escalade Review, Specs, Price, And Mileage (Brochure)
Seat Belt Reminders
Driver Seat Belt Reminder Light
There is a driver seat belt reminder light on the instrument cluster.
When the vehicle is started, this light flashes and a chime may come on to remind the driver to fasten their seat belt. 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 the vehicle is moving. If the driver seat belt is buckled, neither the light nor the chime comes on.
Passenger Seat Belt Reminder Light
There is a passenger seat belt reminder light near the passenger airbag status indicator. See Passenger Sensing System.
When the vehicle is started, this light flashes and a chime may come on to remind passengers to fasten their seat belts. Then the light stays on solid until the belt is buckled. This cycle continues several times if the passenger remains or becomes unbuckled while the vehicle is moving. If the passenger seat belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light comes on. The front passenger seat belt reminder 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 reminder light and/or chime, remove the object from the seat or buckle the seat belt.
Airbag Readiness Light
This light shows if there is an electrical problem with the airbag system. The system check includes the airbag sensor(s), the passenger sensing system, the pretensioners, the airbag modules, the wiring, and the crash sensing and diagnostic module.
The airbag readiness light comes on for several seconds when the vehicle is started. If the light does not come on then, have it fixed immediately.
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.
If there is a problem with the airbag system, a Driver Information Center (DIC) message may also come on.
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
The vehicle has a passenger sensing system. See Passenger Sensing System for important safety information. The passenger airbag status indicator is in the overhead console.
When the vehicle is started, the passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbols for on and off for several seconds as a system check. Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or the on or off symbol to let you know the status of the front outboard passenger frontal airbag.
If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the front outboard passenger frontal airbag and knee airbag are allowed to inflate.
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the airbag status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing system has turned off the front outboard passenger frontal airbag and knee 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 0 138 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. It should go out when the engine is started. 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 or is flashing, the Driver Information Center (DIC) also displays a message. 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 (Check Engine Light)
This light is part of the vehicle’s emission control onboard diagnostic system. If this light is on while the engine is running, a malfunction has been detected and the vehicle may require service. The light should come on to show that it is working when the ignition is in Service Mode. See Ignition Positions 0 184.
Malfunctions are often indicated by the system before any problem is noticeable. Being aware of the light and seeking service promptly when it comes on may prevent damage.
Caution
If the vehicle is driven continually with this light on, the emission control system may not work as well, the fuel economy may be lower, and the vehicle may not run smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Caution
Modifications to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake,
or fuel system, or the use of replacement tires that do not meet the original tire specifications, can cause this light to come on. This could lead to costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. This could also affect the vehicle’s ability to pass an Emissions Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modifications 0 278.
If the light is flashing: A malfunction has been detected that could damage the emission control system and increase vehicle emissions. Diagnosis and service may be required.
To help prevent damage, reduce vehicle speed and avoid hard accelerations and uphill grades. If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as possible.
If the light continues to flash, find a safe place to park. Turn the vehicle off and wait at least 10 seconds before restarting the engine. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous guidelines and see your dealer for service as soon as possible.
If the light is on steady: A malfunction has been detected. Diagnosis and service may be required.
Check the following:
- If fuel has been added to the vehicle using the capless fuel funnel adapter, make sure that it has been removed. See “Filling the Tank with a Portable Gas Can” under Filling the Tank 0 235. The diagnostic system can detect if the adapter has been left installed in the vehicle, allowing fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere.
A few driving trips with the adapter removed may turn off the light. - Poor fuel quality can cause inefficient engine operation and poor driveability, which may go away once the engine is warmed up. If this occurs, change the fuel brand. It may require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If the light remains on, see your dealer.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
If the vehicle requires an Emissions Inspection/Maintenance test, the test equipment will likely connect to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).
The DLC is under the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Connecting devices that are not used to perform an Emissions Inspection/ Maintenance test or to service the vehicle may affect vehicle operation. See your dealer if assistance is needed.
The vehicle may not pass inspection if:
- The light is on when the engine is running.
- The light does not come on when the ignition is in Service Mode.
- Critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed. If this happens, the vehicle will not be ready for inspection and might require several days of routine driving before the system is ready for inspection. This can happen if the 12-volt battery has recently been replaced or run down, or if the vehicle has been recently serviced.
See your dealer if the vehicle will not pass or cannot be made ready for the test.
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.
This light should come on briefly when the engine is started. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. If the light comes on and stays on, there is a brake problem.
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.
Electric Parking Brake Light
This light comes on when the parking 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 message may also be displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
If the light does not come on or remains flashing, see your dealer.
Service Electric Parking Brake Light
If this light comes on and stays 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 Electric Parking Brake 0 219. A message may also be displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
This light comes on briefly when the vehicle is turned on to show that the light is working. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. If the ABS warning light stays on or comes on again while driving, the vehicle needs service. A chime may also sound when the light stays on. If the ABS warning light is the only light on, the vehicle has regular brakes, but ABS is not functioning. If both the ABS warning light and the brake system warning light are on, ABS is not functioning and there is a problem with the regular brakes. See your dealer for service.
Sport Mode Light
This light comes on when Sport mode is selected. See Magnetic Ride Control
Tow/Haul Mode Light
For vehicles with the Tow/Haul Mode feature, this light comes on when the Tow/Haul Mode has been activated. See Tow/Haul Mode 0 213.
Winter Driving Mode Light
This light comes on when Snow/Ice mode is selected. See Magnetic Ride Control 0 224.
Lane Keep Assist (LKA) Light
This light is green if LKA is available to assist. LKA may assist by gently turning the steering wheel if the vehicle approaches a detected lane marking without using the turn signal in that direction. The LKA light will turn amber.
This light is amber and flashes as a Lane Departure Warning (LDW) alert, to indicate that the lane marking has been crossed.
Vehicle Ahead Indicator
If equipped, this indicator will display green when a vehicle is detected ahead and amber when you are following a vehicle ahead much too closely.
2023 Cadillac Escalade Review, Specs, Price, And Mileage (Brochure)
Traction Off Light
This light comes on briefly when the vehicle is turned on to show that the light is working. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
The traction off light comes on when the Traction Control System (TCS) has been turned off. If StabiliTrak/Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is turned off, TCS is also turned off. To turn TCS and ESC off and on, see Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control.
If TCS is off, wheel slip during acceleration is not limited unless necessary to help protect the driveline from damage. Adjust driving accordingly.
StabiliTrak OFF Light
This light comes on briefly while starting the engine. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer.
This light comes on when the StabiliTrak/Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is turned off. If StabiliTrak/ESC is off, the Traction Control System (TCS) is also off. If StabiliTrak/ESC and TCS are off, the system does not assist in controlling the vehicle. Turn on the TCS and the StabiliTrak/ESC systems, and the warning light turns off. See Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control 0 221.
Traction Control System (TCS)/ StabiliTrak Light
This light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If the light does not come on, have the vehicle serviced by your 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/ ESC system have been disabled. A Driver Information Center (DIC) message may be displayed. Check the DIC messages to determine which feature(s) are no longer functioning and whether the vehicle requires service. If the light is on and flashing, the TCS and/or the StabiliTrak/ESC system is actively working.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light (Uplevel Only)
This light comes on briefly while starting the vehicle. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally the indicator light goes off.
Caution
The engine coolant temperature warning light indicates that the vehicle has overheated. Driving with this light on can damage the engine and it may not be covered by the vehicle warranty. See Engine Overheating 0 289.
The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on when the engine has overheated.
If this happens, pull over and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
Tire Pressure Light
If equipped with the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), this light comes on briefly when the vehicle 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 Driver Information Center (DIC) tire pressure message may also be displayed. Stop as soon as possible, and inflate the tires to the pressure value shown on the Tire and Loading Information label.
When the Light Flashes First and Then Is On Steady
If the light flashes for about a minute and then stays on, there may be a problem with the TPMS. If the problem is not corrected, the light will come on every time the vehicle is started.
Engine Oil Pressure Light
Caution
Lack of proper engine oil maintenance can damage the engine. Driving with the engine oil low can also damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Check the oil level as soon as possible. Add oil if required, but if the oil level is within the operating range and the oil pressure is still low, have the vehicle serviced. Always follow the maintenance schedule for changing engine oil.
This 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.
Low Fuel Warning Light
A Low Fuel Warning Light near the fuel gauge comes on briefly when the ignition is turned on as a check to show it is working.
It also comes on when the fuel gauge indicator is empty. The light turns off when fuel is added. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced.
Security Light
The security 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 system is working normally, the indicator light turns off.
If the light stays on and the engine does not start, there could be a problem with the theft-deterrent system.
High-Beam On Light
This light comes on when the high-beam headlamps are in use.
IntelliBeam Light
This light comes on when the IntelliBeam system, if equipped, is enabled.
Lamps On Reminder
This light comes on when the exterior lamps are in use, except when only the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) are active.
Cruise Control Light
The cruise control light is white when the cruise control is on and ready, and turns green when the cruise control is set and active.
Adaptive Cruise Control Light
This light is white when the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC, if equipped) is on and ready, and turns green when the ACC is set and active.
Door Ajar Light
This light comes on when a door is open or not securely latched. Before driving, check that all doors are properly closed.
FAQs
The check engine light typically indicates an issue with the engine or emissions system. It could range from something minor like a loose gas cap to a more serious engine problem.
The oil pressure warning light alerts you to low oil pressure in the engine. Driving with low oil pressure can cause serious engine damage, so it’s important to stop the vehicle and check the oil level immediately.
The battery warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s charging system. It could mean the battery is not being charged properly or that there is an issue with the alternator.
The TPMS warning light indicates that one or more tires have low air pressure. It’s important to check the tire pressure and inflate the tires to the recommended level to prevent tire damage and maintain proper vehicle handling.
The brake system warning light typically indicates a problem with the braking system, such as low brake fluid or a malfunctioning brake system component. It’s important to have the brakes inspected and repaired as soon as possible for safe driving.
The traction control system warning light indicates that the vehicle’s traction control system is engaged or there is a problem with the system. This could be due to slippery road conditions or a malfunctioning component.
The stability control system warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s stability control system. This system helps to maintain stability and control during cornering or evasive maneuvers. If the light is on, there may be an issue with the system that needs to be addressed.
The ABS warning light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. This system helps to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking and maintain steering control. If the light is on, there may be an issue with the ABS that needs to be addressed.
The airbag warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s airbag system. This could mean there is a fault in the system that could prevent the airbags from deploying in the event of a crash.
The low fuel warning light indicates that the fuel level in the tank is low and it’s time to refuel. Ignoring this warning could result in running out of fuel and being stranded.
The windshield washer fluid warning light indicates that the windshield washer fluid level is low. It’s important to refill the washer fluid reservoir to ensure visibility while driving, especially in inclement weather.
The seat belt warning light indicates that one or more occupants in the vehicle have not fastened their seat belts. All occupants need to wear seat belts for safety while driving.
The door ajar warning light indicates that one or more doors in the vehicle are not fully closed. This could be a safety hazard if a door were to open unexpectedly while driving.
The engine temperature warning light indicates that the engine is overheating. It’s important to pull over and turn off the engine immediately to prevent damage. Allow the engine to cool down before continuing to drive or seek assistance.
The lane departure warning light indicates that the vehicle is drifting out of its lane without signaling. This system helps to alert the driver to potential lane departure and can help prevent accidents caused by drifting into other lanes.
Useful Link:
View full PDF: Cadillac Escalade 2019 User Manual | Auto User Guide
2023 Cadillac Escalade Review, Specs, Price, And Mileage (Brochure)
2019 Cadillac Escalade Instrument Cluster | Warning Lights Guide