Nissan ALTIMA 2023 Warning and indicator lights

The 2023 Nissan Altima warning lights and indicators for various systems, including the brake, tire pressure, engine, oil pressure, and battery charging. It also has indicators for the ABS, airbag, high beam, turn signal, cruise control, and rear defrost systems. Audible reminders include the key-in-ignition, door ajar, and seat belt reminder chimes. These features help alert the driver to any potential issues with the vehicle and promote safe driving habits. Nissan Altima malfunction symbols typically include the check engine light, battery light, oil pressure warning light, brake warning light, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light, and airbag warning light, among others, depending on the specific model and year. These malfunction warning Nissan Altima symbols illuminate to indicate various issues with the vehicle that require attention. Nissan Altima malfunction symbols 2022 – 2023 may vary depending on the trim level and features, but common ones include the check engine light, battery light, oil pressure warning light, brake warning light, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light, and airbag warning light, among others. These symbols indicate various vehicle issues that need attention. Refer to the owner’s manual for your specific model for precise symbol meanings. Also The “Malfunction See Owners Manual Nissan Altima 2021 indicates a system or component issue that requires your attention and may necessitate consulting the owner’s manual for further information on the specific problem.

2023 Nissan Altima Specs, Price, Features and Mileage (Brochure)

Warning lights, indicator lights, and audible

Nissan Altima Dashboard Symbols
Nissan Altima dash lights serve as indicators for various vehicle functions and warnings. The meaning of each light can vary, so consult the owner’s manual for specific details. Common lights include the check engine light, oil pressure warning, and tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) indicator.
The malfunction indicator light Nissan Altima is also known as the “check engine light.” It illuminates to indicate a problem with the vehicle’s engine or emissions system, and it should be inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address the issue.

Common symbols on dashboard of Nissan Altima include the check engine light, battery light, oil pressure warning light, brake warning light, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light, and airbag warning light, among others, depending on the specific model and year. These symbols illuminate to indicate various issues with the vehicle that require attention.
The 2 cars and a star symbol Nissan vehicles typically represent the Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) system, which is Nissan’s adaptive cruise control feature. This system uses radar or camera sensors to monitor and maintain a safe following distance between your car and the vehicle ahead, making highway driving more convenient and safe.

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) come on briefly and then go off:

If any light fails to come on or operate in a way other than described, it may indicate a burned-out bulb and/or a system malfunction nissan altima. Has the system been checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. Some indicators and warnings are also displayed in the vehicle information display between the speedometer and tachometer.

WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS (red)

Nissan malfunction indicator light 
Vehicle information display–5 inches (13 cm) Type A”  or “Vehicle information display—7 inch (18cm) Type B”

• 

ORBrake warning light

This light functions for both the parking brake and the foot brake systems.

Parking brake indicator (if so equipped)
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the light comes on when the parking brake is applied.

Low brake fluid warning light
When the ignition switch is placed 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 ap-plied, stop the vehicle and perform the following:

1. Check the brake fluid level. Add brake fluid as necessary.
2.  If the brake fluid level is correct, have the warning system checked. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

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 a 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 that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

Charge warning light
If this 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 generator belt. If the belt is loose, broken, or missing, or if the light remains on, have the system checked. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

CAUTION

• Do not ground electrical accessories directly to the battery terminal. Doing so will bypass the variable voltage control system and the vehicle battery may not charge completely.
• Do not continue driving if the generator belt is loose, broken or missing.

OR Electronic parking brake indicator light (if so equipped)

This light illuminates when the electronic parking brake system is operating.
Instruments and controls

• The warning light and/or chime may activate if any seat belt is unfastened before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Please remain fastened until the vehicle has come to a complete stop.

Security indicator light
This light blinks when the ignition switch is placed in the OFF, LOCK or AUTO ACC position.
The blinking security indicator light indicates that the security systems equipped on the vehicle are operational.

Supplemental air bag warning light
When the ignition switch is placed in the ON or START position, the supplemental air bag warning light illuminates for about 7 seconds and then turns 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 your vehicle must be taken to a 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 supplemental restraint system (air bag system) and/or the pretensions may not function properly.

WARNING
If the supplemental airbag warning light is on, it could mean that the front airbag, side airbag, curtain airbag systems, and/or pretensioner systems will not operate in an accident. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle checked as soon as possible. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS (yellow)

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) warning light

When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the 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. Have the system checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. If an ABS Nissan Altima malfunction warning occurs, the anti-lock function is turned off. The brake system then operates normally but without anti-lock assistance.

2-14 Instruments and controls

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian Detection system warning light
This light comes on when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. It turns off after the engine is started. This light illuminates when the AEB with Pedestrian Detection system is set to OFF in the vehicle information display.
If the light illuminates when the AEB with Pedestrian Detection system is on, it may indicate that the system is unavailable.

Electronic parking brake warning light (if so equipped)

The electronic parking brake system warning light functions for the electronic parking brake system. If the warning light illuminates, it may indicate the electronic parking brake system is not functioning properly. Has the system checked?

TPMS Nissan Altima warning malfunction
If the TPMS is not functioning properly, the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. The light will remain on after 1 minute. Has the system checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. The “Tire Pressure Low — Add Air” warning does not appear if the low tire pressure warning light illuminates to indicate a TPMS malfunction.
For additional information, see “Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)”. recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

Front passenger airbag status light

The front passenger air bag status light will be lit and the passenger front airbag will be off depending on how the front passenger seat is being used.

Low tire pressure warning light

Your vehicle is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that monitors the tire pressure of all tires except the spare. The low tire pressure warning light warns of low tire pressure or indicates that the TPMS is not functioning properly. After the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, this light illuminates for about 1 second and turns off.

WARNING
Radio waves could adversely affect electric medical equipment. Those who use a pacemaker should contact the electric medical equipment manufacturer for the possible influences before use. If the light does not illuminate with the ignition switch placed in the ON position, have the vehicle checked as soon as possible. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

Low tire pressure warning
If the vehicle is being driven with low tire pressure, the warning light will illuminate. A “Tire Pressure Low – Add Air” warning also appears in the vehicle information display. When the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, you should stop and adjust the tire pressure of all four tires to the recommended COLD tire pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information la-bel located in the driver’s door opening. The low tire pressure warning light does not automatically turn off when the tire pressure is adjusted. After the tire 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 tire pressure warning light. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the tire pressure. The “Tire Pressure Low – Add Air” warning appears each time the ignition switch is placed in the ON position as long as the low tire pressure warning light remains illuminated.

TPMS malfunction
If the TPMS is not functioning properly, the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. The light will remain on after 1 minute. Has the system been checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. The “Tire Pressure Low — Add Air” warning does not appear if the low tire pressure warning light illuminates to indicate a TPMS malfunction.

WARNING
Radio waves could adversely affect electric medical equipment. Those who use a pacemaker should contact the electric medical equipment manufacturer for the possible influences before use. If the light does not illuminate with the ignition switch placed in the ON position, have the vehicle checked as soon as possible. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. 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 tires may permanently damage the tires and increase the likelihood of tire failure. Serious vehicle damage could occur and may lead to an accident and could result in serious personal injury or death. Check the tire pressure for all four tires. 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 tire pressure warning light off. If the light still illuminates while driving after adjusting the tire pressure, a tire may be flat or the TPMS may be malfunctioning. If you have a flat tire, replace it with a spare tire as soon as possible. If no tire is flat and all tires are properly inflated, have the vehicle checked. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. When using a wheel without the TPMS such as the spare tire, the TPMS will not function and the low tire pressure warning light will flash for approximately 1 minute. The light will remain on after 1 minute. Have your tires replaced and/or the TPMS system reset as soon as possible. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for these services. Replacing tires 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 tire pressure check. Be sure to check the tire pressure regularly. If the vehicle is being driven at speeds of less than 16 mph (25 km/h), the TPMS may not operate correctly. Be sure to install the specified size of tires to the four wheels correctly.

Nissan Altima Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)

If this indicator light comes on steady or blinks while the engine is running, it may indicate a potential emission control malfunction. The MIL 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 gallons (11.4 liters) 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 comes on steady 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. For additional information, see “Readiness for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) test”

Operation
The MIL will come on in one of two ways:

• MIL on steady — An emission control system malfunction has been detected. Check the fuel-filler cap if the Loose Fuel Cap warning appears in the vehicle information display. 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, have the vehicle inspected. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.
• MIL 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 MIL may stop blinking and come on steady. Have the vehicle inspected? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. You do not need to have your vehicle towed to the dealer.

CAUTION
Continued vehicle operation without having the emission control system checked and repaired as necessary could lead to poor drivability, reduced fuel economy, and possible damage to the emission control system.

Master warning light
When the ignition is in the ON position, the master warning light illuminates if any of the following is displayed on the vehicle information display.

• No key warning
• Low windshield-washer fluid warning
• Door open warning (when stopped)
• Trunk open warning
• Loose fuel cap
• Low tire pressure warning
• AWD warning

If the master warning light illuminates and the message(s) are not visible on the vehicle information display, use the buttons located on the steering wheel to navigate the vehicle information display until the “Warnings” screen is displayed.

Power steering warning light

WARNING
If the engine is not running or is turned off while driving, the power assist for the steering will not work. Steering will be harder to operate. When the power steering warning light illuminates with the engine running, there will be no power assist for the steering. You will still have control of the vehicle, but the steering will be harder to operate. Has the power steering system been checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. When the ignition switch is placed in the ON position, the power steering warning light illuminates. After starting the engine, the power steering warning light turns off. This indicates the power steering is operational. If the power steering warning light illuminates while the engine is running, it may indicate the power steering is not functioning properly and may need servicing. Have the power steering been checked? It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service. When the power steering warning light illuminates with the engine running, there will be no power assist for the steering, but you will still have control of the vehicle. At this time, greater steering effort is required to operate the steering wheel, especially in sharp turns and at low speeds. For additional information, see “Power steering”

Rear Automatic Braking (RAB) system warning light
This light comes on when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. It turns off after the engine is started. This light illuminates when the RAB system is turned off in the vehicle information display. If the light illuminates when the RAB system is on, it may indicate that the system is unavailable. For additional information, see “Rear Automatic Braking (RAB)” 2-18 Instruments and controls

Slip indicator light
This indicator light will blink when the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is operating, thus alerting the driver to the fact that the road surface is slippery and the vehicle is nearing its traction limits.
You may feel or hear the system working; this is normal. The light will blink for a few seconds after the VDC system stops limiting wheel spin. The indicator light also comes on when you place the ignition switch in the ON position. The light will turn off after approximately 2 seconds if the system is operational. If the light does not come on have the system checked. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) OFF indicator light
This indicator light comes on when the VDC is turned off in the vehicle information display. This indicates the VDC has been turned off. Turn the VDC on using the vehicle information display, or by restarting the engine. For additional information, see “Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system” The VDC light also comes on when the ignition switch is placed in the ON position. The light will turn off after a period of time if the system is operational. If the light stays on or comes on along with the indicator light while you are driving, have the VDC system checked. It is recommended that you visit a NISSAN dealer for this service.

WARNING
VDC should remain on unless freeing a vehicle from mud or snow. While the VDC system is operating, you might feel a slight vibration or hear the system working when starting the vehicle or accelerating, but this is normal.

WARNING/INDICATOR LIGHTS (other)

Automatic brake hold indicator light (white/green)(if so equipped)
Warning lights, indicator lights, and audible14

High Beam Assist indicator light (green)

This indicator light illuminates when the headlights come on while the headlight switch is in the AUTO position with the high beams selected. This indicates that the high beam assist is operational.

High beam indicator light (blue)

This blue light comes on when the headlight high beams are on and goes out when the low beams are selected.
The high beam indicator light also comes on when the passing signal is activated.

Side light and headlight indicator light (green)

The side light and headlight indicator light illuminate when the side light or headlight position is selected.

Turn signal/hazard indicator lights (green)

The appropriate light flashes when the turn signal switch is activated.
Both lights flash when the hazard switch is turned on.

AUDIBLE REMINDERS

Brake pad wear warning
The disc brake pads have audible wear warnings. When a disc brake pad requires replacement, it makes a high-pitched scraping sound when the vehicle is in motion, whether or not the brake pedal is depressed. Have the brakes checked as soon as possible if the warning sound is heard.

Light reminder chime
With the ignition switch placed in the OFF position, a chime sounds when the driver’s door is opened if the headlights or parking lights are on.
Turn the headlight control switch off before leaving the vehicle.
NISSAN Intelligent Key® door
buzzer
The Intelligent Key door buzzer sounds if the Intelligent Key is left inside the vehicle when locking the doors. When the buzzer sounds, be sure to check both the vehicle and the Intelligent Key. For additional information, see “NISSAN Intelligent Key®”

FAQ

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my Nissan Altima?
If the check engine light comes on, it’s best to take your Nissan Altima to a certified mechanic or dealership to have it diagnosed and repaired.

What does the battery warning light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The battery warning light typically means that there’s an issue with the charging system or battery. It’s best to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What should I do if the oil pressure warning light comes on in my Nissan Altima?
If the oil pressure warning light comes on, stop driving immediately and check the engine oil level. If the oil level is low, add more oil. If the oil level is fine, it’s best to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What does the brake system warning light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The brake system warning light typically means there’s an issue with the braking system. It’s important to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What should I do if the ABS warning light comes on in my Nissan Altima?
The ABS warning light typically means there’s an issue with the anti-lock braking system. It’s important to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What does the TPMS warning light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The TPMS warning light typically means there’s an issue with the tire pressure monitoring system. It’s important to check your tire pressure and adjust it as needed. If the light persists, take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What should I do if the airbag warning light comes on in my Nissan Altima?
If the airbag warning light comes on, it’s important to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair. Airbag issues should be addressed promptly for your safety.

What does the seat belt reminder light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The seat belt reminder light typically means that one or more passengers in the vehicle haven’t fastened their seat belts. It’s important to ensure that everyone in the vehicle is properly secured before driving.

What does the door ajar warning light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The door ajar warning light typically means that one or more doors in the vehicle aren’t fully closed. It’s important to ensure that all doors are properly closed before driving.

What does the turn signal indicator light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The turn signal indicator light lets you know when your turn signals are activated. It’s important to use your turn signals to communicate your intentions while driving.

What should I do if the low fuel warning light comes on in my Nissan Altima?
If the low fuel warning light comes on, it’s important to refuel as soon as possible. Running out of gas can cause damage to your vehicle’s fuel system.

What does the temperature warning light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The temperature warning light typically means that your engine is overheating. It’s important to pull over and turn off your vehicle immediately to avoid engine damage. Let the engine cool down before checking the coolant level or taking your vehicle to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.

What does the fog lamp indicator light mean in a Nissan Altima?
The fog lamp indicator light lets you know when your fog lights are activated. It’s important to use your fog lights in inclement weather to improve visibility.

What are the Warning lights on a Nissan Altima?
Common warning lights on a Nissan Altima include the check engine light, battery light, oil pressure warning light, brake warning light, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) light, and airbag warning light, among others, depending on the specific model and year. It’s crucial to refer to the owner’s manual for your Altima model to understand the meaning of each warning light and take appropriate action when they illuminate.

What does malfunction mean on Nissan Altima?
The “malfunction” warning on a Nissan Altima indicates a problem or fault in one of the vehicle’s systems, requiring immediate inspection and potential repairs by a qualified technician to ensure safe and proper operation. Ignoring it may lead to more significant issues or reduced vehicle performance.

What does it mean when the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminates in a Nissan Altima?
When the malfunction indicator lamp Nissan Altima typically indicates that there is a problem or fault in the vehicle’s engine or emissions control system. This warning light may be triggered by issues such as a faulty sensor, a misfire, or an emissions-related problem. It’s important to have the vehicle diagnosed and repaired by a qualified technician to ensure it operates correctly and complies with emission standards.

Useful Link

View Full User Guide: Nissan ALTIMA 2023 User Guide
Download Manuals: https://www.nissanusa.com/owners/ownership/manuals-guides.html
2023 Nissan Altima Specs, Price, Features and Mileage (Brochure)