Cadillac Dashboard Indicator Symbols And Meanings
When you notice Cadillac dashboard symbols, TC, ABS, or otherwise, your vehicle is trying to tell you something. Paul Conte Cadillac has created this guide to Cadillac dashboard symbols and meanings as part of our ongoing effort to keep drivers informed. We invite you to refer to this resource whenever you're stumped by a dashboard symbol and then schedule service accordingly.
Decoding the Warning: Cadillac Dashboard Symbols
It can be disconcerting when a symbol appears on your dash, but don't stress – these lights are your friends! An activated dashboard symbol means your car or SUV is communicating things you can't always see or feel. Some are neutral, while others call attention to a particular concern. Understanding Cadillac dashboard symbols and meanings is vital to taking care of your vehicle's health. Here's an overview of some common dashboard indicator warning lights:

Check Engine Light
Perhaps one of the most well-known dashboard symbols, the check engine light indicates a potential problem with your engine. The culprit could be one of many other things, like a loose fuel cap, but ignoring this symbol is a bad idea regardless. Seek service immediately to make sure your engine is operating smoothly.
Tire Pressure Light
As you may have guessed, the tire pressure light can mean either low tire pressure or an issue with the tire monitoring sensors. Either way, you don't want to continue driving with this symbol illuminated for too long. Improper tire inflation can affect safety, performance, and even fuel efficiency.
Coolant Level Warning
This thermometer symbol may appear for a few seconds after you start your ignition, but if it lingers while you're driving, it could mean low coolant levels or a leak in the system. Coolant is critical for maintaining a safe engine temperature, so don't hesitate to book a maintenance appointment if you notice this symbol.
Traction Control System Light
Out of all the Cadillac dashboard symbols, TC is one of the most important to address. It could indicate an issue with your traction control system, which is a safety concern. Schedule service if you notice a dash symbol that looks like a car veering left and right, leaving tire marks in its wake.
Engine Speed Limiter Light
The engine speed limiter light looks like a tiny odometer hitting the top speed. Cadillac manufacturers included this symbol to warn drivers against surpassing their vehicles' recommended driving speeds. Heed the engine speed limiter to avoid damaging your car or SUV.
Seat Belt Reminder Light
We've all experienced the seat belt reminder light. Along with a beeping sound, this alert appears when the driver's seat is filled and the car is in motion but the seat belt is not in use. It's a good habit to buckle up before you start driving.
Passenger Seat Belt Reminder Light
Your passenger's safety matters, too. If you start to drive and someone else is sitting up front without their safety belt on, your Cadillac reminder light and a chiming sound will activate to remind them to buckle in.
Airbag Readiness Light
This symbol appears momentarily on your dashboard when you start the car. It indicates that there are no electrical problems with your airbag system. If you notice that the airbag readiness light stays on longer than a few seconds, there could be cause for concern.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
Yet another light that typically shows up when the ignition is activated, the ABS symbol could mean your anti-lock brakes are not working properly. Obviously, this is a safety hazard. Please see a service technician as soon as possible to make sure your brake system is working.
Up-Shift Light
You will not see the up-shift light on your dashboard if you're driving a newer Cadillac in North America because recent models have adopted automatic transmissions. However, if you see this light in a manual, pre-owned model, it is telling you to shift to a higher gear.
Brake System Warning Light
There are various reasons why your brake system warning light might appear on the dash. All of them are worth a professional assessment. You never want to risk a faulty braking system, since this is one of your vehicle's most crucial safety components.
Charging System Light
Did you know that cars automatically charge their batteries while driving? Your Cadillac will present the charging system light when this system isn't working. To avoid a premature dead battery, let our experts take a look and confirm that everything is in good shape.

When Your Dashboard Lights Up, Paul Conte Cadillac Can Help
The Paul Conte Cadillac service center offers sophisticated and efficient maintenance and repair services tailored to your model. We've got you covered with everything from oil changes that can quell the check engine oil light to tire inflations that can take care of your tire pressure monitoring system light. Book an appointment online or give us a call to reserve a time for us to identify and address the potential causes of your dashboard warnings.
We will also help you take advantage of our current service and parts specials so you can save on high-quality care.
Address All Dashboard Indicator Warning Lights at Paul Conte Cadillac
When your dashboard lights up for any reason, it can be perplexing. We hope this guide helps you sort through the meanings of each symbol and make decisions about your maintenance and repair routine. When you need an expert's opinion or recognize that you're due for a tune-up, you can count on our Cadillac service department to handle any underlying issues. Driving away with a clear dashboard always feels much better than wondering what a light means. It is better for your peace of mind and certainly better for your Cadillac.
Do your part to keep your car happy and healthy and schedule a service appointment at Paul Conte Cadillac today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the malfunction indicator light on a Cadillac?
The malfunction indicator light, also known as the check engine light, means there may be an issue with your engine. Although it does not point to an urgent hazard, you should still bring your car or SUV in for a quick checkup to ensure that your engine is functioning as intended. Otherwise, you may face more expensive repairs down the road.
What is the green car light on a Cadillac dash?
Green or blue Cadillac dashboard indicator warning lights are not intended to indicate a problem. Instead, they reflect anything that is actively happening with your car, such as an activated turn signal. You may also see green or blue lights when your high beams or fog lights are on. This type of dashboard signal is usually no cause for concern.
What is the yellow light on my Cadillac?
When it comes to Cadillac dashboard symbols, TC or otherwise, a yellow or amber light is a warning. Although this may not indicate an immediate emergency, it means something in your vehicle's system needs to be addressed soon. While it might be tempting to ignore a yellow symbol, this is not advisable. Bring your vehicle in to work on the underlying issue promptly.