Warning Symbols and Indicator: Hyundai Elantra 2016 Dashboard Guide
The 2016 Hyundai Elantra’s panel is full of different warning signs and lights. Each one is an important way for the car and its driver to talk to each other. When certain problems happen, these symbols light up to show important information about the car’s health and performance. These signs tell drivers what they need to do to stay safe and keep the car running well. They can be anything from low fuel levels and tire pressure alerts to engine problems or possible system failures. Drivers need to know what each sign means so they can act quickly and correctly when problems arise. The Hyundai company gives drivers a full dashboard guide that helps them learn these symbols and what they mean. This gives them the confidence to drive safely and keep their 2016 Hyundai Elantra in great shape.
2023 – 2024 Hyundai Elantra Review, Price, Features And Mileage (Brochure)
Warning and indicator lights
NOTICE – Warning lights
Make sure that all warning lights are OFF after starting the engine. If any light is still ON, this indicates a situation that needs attention.
Airbag Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 6 seconds and then goes off.
- When there is a malfunction with the SRS.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Seat Belt Warning LightThis warning light informs the driver that the seat belt is not fastened.
For more details, refer to the “Seat Belts” in chapter 3.
Parking Brake & Brake Fluid Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 3 seconds
- It remains on if the parking brake is applied.
- When the parking brake is applied.
- When the brake fluid level in the reservoir is low.
- If the warning light illuminates with the parking brake released, it indicates the brake fluid level is low.
If the brake fluid level in the reservoir is low:
- Drive carefully to the nearest safe location and stop your vehicle.
- With the engine stopped, check the brake fluid level immediately and add fluid as required (For more details, refer to “Brake Fluid” in Chapter 7).
Then check all brake components for fluid leaks. If any leak in the brake system is found, the warning light remains on, or the brakes do not operate properly, do not drive the vehicle.
In this case, have your vehicle towed to an authorized HYUNDAI dealer and inspected.
Dual-diagonal braking system
Your vehicle is equipped with dual-diagonal braking systems. This means you still have braking on two wheels even if one of the dual systems should fail.
With only one of the dual systems working, more than normal pedal travel and greater pedal pressure are required to stop the vehicle.
Also, the vehicle will not stop in as short a distance with only a portion of the brake system working.
If the brakes fail while you are driving, shift to a lower gear for additional engine braking and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
WARNING – Parking Brake & Brake Fluid Warning Light
Driving the vehicle with a warning light ON is dangerous. If the Parking Brake & Brake Fluid Warning Light illuminates with the parking brake released, it indicates that the brake fluid level is low.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 3 seconds and then goes off.
- When there is a malfunction with the ABS (The normal braking system will still be operational without the assistance of the anti-lock brake system).
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) System Warning LightThese two warning lights illuminate at the same time while driving:
- When the ABS and regular brake system do not work normally. In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
WARNING – Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) System Warning Light
When both ABS and Parking Brake & Brake Fluid Warning Lights are on, the brake system will not work normally and you may experience an unexpected and dangerous situation during sudden braking.
In this case, avoid high-speed driving and abrupt braking.
Have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
NOTICE – Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) System Warning Light
When the ABS Warning Light is on or both ABS and Parking Brake & Brake Fluid Warning Lights are on, the speedometer, odometer, or trip meter may not work. Also, the EPS Warning Light may illuminate and the steering effort may increase or decrease.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
Electric Power Steering (EPS) Warning Light (if equipped)This warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It remains on until the engine is started.
- When there is a malfunction with the EPS.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)This warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It remains on until the engine is started.
- When there is a malfunction with the emission control system.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
CAUTION – Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
Driving with the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) on may cause damage to the emission control systems which could affect drivability and/or fuel economy.
CAUTION – Gasoline Engine
If the Malfunction Indicator: Lamp (MIL) illuminates, potential catalytic converter damage is possible which could result in loss of engine power.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
Charging System Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It remains on until the engine is started.
- When there is a malfunction with either the alternator or electrical charging system.
If there is a malfunction with either the alternator or electrical charging system:
- Drive carefully to the nearest safe location and stop your vehicle.
- Turn the engine off and check the alternator drive belt for looseness or breakage.
If the belt is adjusted properly, there may be a problem in the electrical charging system.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light (if equipped)This warning light illuminates:
- When the engine coolant temperature is above 248°F (120°C). This means that the engine is overheated and may be damaged.
If your vehicle is overheated, refer to “Overheating” in Chapter 6.
CAUTION – Engine Overheating
Do not continue driving with the engine overheated. Otherwise, the engine may be damaged.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It remains on until the engine is started.
- When the engine oil pressure is low.
If the engine oil pressure is low:
- Drive carefully to the nearest safe location and stop your vehicle.
- Turn the engine off and check the engine oil level (For more details, refer to “Engine Oil” in Chapter 7). If the level is low, add oil as required.
If the warning light remains on after adding oil or if oil is not available, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
CAUTION – Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light
- If the engine does not stop
immediately after the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light is illuminated, severe damage could result. - If the warning light stays on while the engine is running, it indicates that there may be serious engine damage or malfunction. In this case,
- Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Turn off the engine and check the oil level. If the oil level is low, fill the engine oil to the proper level.
- Start the engine again. If the warning light stays on after the engine is started, turn the engine off immediately. In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Low Fuel Level Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:: When the fuel tank is nearly empty.
If the fuel tank is nearly empty, add fuel as soon as possible.
CAUTION – Low Fuel Level
Driving with the Low Fuel Level warning light on or with the fuel level below “E (Empty)” can cause the engine to misfire and damage the catalytic converter (if equipped).
Low Tire Pressure Warning LightThis warning light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 3 seconds and then goes off.
- When one or more of your tires are significantly underinflated.
For more details, refer to “Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)” in chapter 6.
This warning light remains on after blinking for approximately 60 seconds or repeats blinking and off at intervals of approximately 3 seconds:
- When there is a malfunction with the TPMS.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer as soon as possible.
For more details, refer to “Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)” in chapter 6.
WARNING – Low tire pressure
- Significantly low tire pressure makes the vehicle unstable and can contribute to loss of vehicle control and increased braking distances.
- Continued driving or low-pressure tires will cause the tires to overheat and fail.
WARNING – Safe Stopping
- The TPMS cannot alert you to severe and sudden tire damage caused by external factors.
- If you notice any vehicle instability, immediately take your foot off the accelerator pedal, apply the brakes gradually with light force, and slowly move to a safe position off the road.
Door Ajar Warning LightThis warning light illuminates: When a door is not closed securely.
Trunk Open Warning LightThis warning light illuminates: When the trunk is not closed securely.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Indicator Light This indicator light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 3 seconds and then goes off.
- When there is a malfunction with the ESC system.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
This indicator light blinks:
While the ESC is operating.
For more details, refer to “Electronic Stability Control (ESC)” in chapter 5.
2023 – 2024 Hyundai Elantra Review, Price, Features And Mileage (Brochure)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator LightThis indicator light illuminates:
- Once you set the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop Button to the ON position.
- It illuminates for approximately 3 seconds and then goes off.
- When you deactivate the ESC system by pressing the ESC OFF button.
For more details, refer to “Electronic Stability Control (ESC)” in chapter 5.
ECO Indicator Light (if equipped)This indicator light illuminates: When you activate the active ECO system by pressing the ACTIVE ECO button.
For more details, refer to “Active ECO System” in chapter 5.
Immobilizer Indicator Light (Without Smart Key)(if equipped)This indicator light illuminates: When the vehicle detects the immobilizer in your key properly while the ignition switch is ON.
- At this time, you can start the engine.
- The indicator light goes off after starting the engine.
This indicator light blinks:
When there is a malfunction with the immobilizer system.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Immobilizer Indicator Light (With Smart Key) (if equipped)This indicator light illuminates for up to 30 seconds:
When the vehicle detects the smart key in the vehicle properly while the Engine Start/Stop Button is ACC or ON.
- At this time, you can start the engine.
- The indicator light goes off after starting the engine.
This indicator light blinks for a few seconds:
When the smart key is not in the vehicle.
- At this time, you can not start the engine.
This indicator light illuminates for 2 seconds and goes off:
When the vehicle can not detect the smart key that is in the vehicle while the Engine Start/Stop Button is ON.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
This indicator light blinks:
- When the battery of the smart key is weak.
- At this time, you can not start the engine. However, you can start the engine if you press the Engine Start/Stop Button with the smart key. (For more details, refer to “Starting the Engine” in section 5).
- When there is a malfunction with the immobilizer system.
In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
Turn Signal Indicator LightThis indicator light blinks: When you turn the turn signal light on.
If any of the following occurs, there may be a malfunction with the turn signal system. In this case, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized HYUNDAI dealer.
- The indicator light does not blink but illuminates.
- The indicator light blinks more rapidly.
- The indicator light does not illuminate at all.
High Beam Indicator LightThis indicator light illuminates:
- When the headlights are on and in the high beam position
- When the turn signal lever is pulled into the Flash-to-Pass position.
Light ON Indicator LightThis indicator light illuminates: When the parking lights or headlights are on.
Front Fog Indicator Light (if equipped)This indicator light illuminates: When the front fog lights are on.
Cruise Indicator Light (if equipped)This indicator light illuminates:
- When the cruise control system is enabled.
For more details, refer to “Cruise Control System” in chapter 5.
Cruise SET Indicator Light (if equipped)This indicator light illuminates:
- When the cruise control speed is set.
For more details, refer to “Cruise Control System” in chapter 5.
FAQs
The red battery warning light indicates a charging system malfunction. It could be due to a faulty alternator, battery, or electrical system issue.
The red brake warning light signals a problem with the braking system. Immediately check the brake fluid level and brake pads. If necessary, have the braking system inspected by a professional.
The yellow engine warning light, also known as the check engine light, indicates a potential issue with the engine or emissions system. It’s recommended to have the vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system scanned to determine the exact problem.
The red oil pressure warning light indicates low oil pressure, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. Check the oil level and pressure immediately. If low, top up the oil, and if the light persists, seek professional assistance.
The yellow tire pressure warning light alerts you to low tire pressure in one or more tires. Check the tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the light remains on, there may be a puncture or a problem with the tire pressure monitoring system.
The red temperature warning light indicates that the engine is overheating. Immediately pull over, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down. Check coolant levels and inspect for leaks. Refill coolant if necessary and seek professional assistance if the problem persists.
The green headlight indicator confirms that the headlights are turned on. It serves as a reminder to the driver that the headlights are in use.
The green turn signal indicator flashes when you activate the turn signals to indicate your intention to change lanes or make a turn. It visually confirms that your turn signals are operating correctly.
The yellow traction control warning light signifies a problem with the traction control system. It may indicate issues such as wheel slippage or a malfunction within the system. Have the vehicle inspected to diagnose and address the problem.
The yellow ABS warning light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. It could be due to a malfunctioning sensor or a fault in the ABS itself. Have the ABS checked by a professional technician.
The green cruise control indicator illuminates when the cruise control system is active and set to a specific speed. It confirms that the cruise control feature is engaged.
The yellow airbag warning light indicates a problem with the airbag system. It could mean that the airbags are deactivated, or there is a fault in the system. Have the airbag system inspected as soon as possible for safety reasons.
The green seatbelt indicator reminds occupants to fasten their seatbelts. It remains illuminated until all occupants have buckled up. Ensuring all occupants wear seatbelts is crucial for safety.
The yellow fuel warning light indicates low fuel levels in the tank. Refuel your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid running out of fuel unexpectedly.
The green eco-driving indicator lights up when the vehicle is being driven in an eco-friendly manner, promoting fuel-efficient driving habits. It encourages drivers to maintain a steady speed and gentle acceleration for better fuel economy.
Useful Links
View Full PDF: 2016 Hyundai Elantra Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
2023 – 2024 Hyundai Elantra Review, Price, Features And Mileage (Brochure)
Instrument Cluster: 2016 Hyundai Elantra Display Instructions