As you get behind the wheel of your Lexus CT 200h, you’re surrounded by a dashboard designed to keep you informed and safe. But have you ever wondered what those warning lights really mean?
From the brake warning light that signals low brake fluid or malfunction, to the PCS warning light that indicates a Pre-Collision System issue, it’s essential to understand what each light is trying to tell you. Stay ahead of potential problems and guarantee a smooth ride by knowing what to look for – and what to do when those lights come on.
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Brake and Battery Warning Lights
Your Lexus CT 200h dashboard is equipped with various warning lights to alert you of potential issues.
Brake Warning Light
The brake warning lights are essential for Brake Maintenance. A red brake warning light indicates the parking brake is on, brake fluid level is low, or the brake system is malfunctioning.
Regenerative Brake Warning Light
A yellow brake warning light signals a malfunction in the regenerative braking system or electronically controlled brake system.
Battery Warning Light
Regular Battery Checks are vital to prevent engine shutdown. The battery charging system warning light alerts you to a charging system fault, requiring immediate attention.
Heed these warnings to guarantee your safety on the road.
Safety and Airbag Warning Systems
The SRS airbag warning light on your Lexus CT 200h dashboard alerts you to a malfunction in the SRS airbag system and/or seat belt pretensioner system, ensuring your safety in the event of an accident.
SRS Airbag Warning Light
This critical safety feature is designed to protect you and your passengers from harm. If the light illuminates, it’s essential to have your vehicle checked by a certified technician as soon as possible to prevent potential airbag malfunction.
ABS Warning Light
Additionally, the ABS warning light will alert you to any issues with your anti-lock braking system.
PCS Warning Light
while the PCS warning light indicates a malfunction in the Pre-Collision System.
These safety features work together to provide a comprehensive safety net, giving you peace of mind on the road.
Vehicle System Warning Indicators
Beyond the safety and airbag warning lights, your Lexus CT 200h is equipped with a range of vehicle system warning indicators that alert you to potential issues with various systems.
High Coolant Temperature Light
These indicators include the High Coolant Temperature light, which warns of engine overheating, requiring immediate attention to prevent damage.
Low Fuel Light
The Low Fuel light indicates when the remaining fuel is approximately 6.8 L (1.8 gal) or less, reminding you to refuel soon.
Malfunction Indicator Light
Additionally, the Malfunction Indicator Light may illuminate, indicating a generic fault in the hybrid system, electronic engine control system, or emission control system.
Heed these warnings to guarantee your vehicle operates safely and efficiently, and to certify that you’re driving in optimal conditions.
Pre-Collision and Lane Departure Alerts
Most Lexus CT 200h models feature an advanced Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert, designed to augment your safety on the road.
PCS Warning Light
The PCS is a collision avoidance system that uses a combination of radar, camera, and sensors to detect potential collisions. If it detects a potential collision, it will alert you with a warning light and an audible buzzer.
Lane Departure Warning Light
The Lane Departure Alert system provides lane guidance, alerting you if you drift out of your lane without signaling. This system uses a camera to detect lane markings and alert you with a warning light and an audible buzzer.
Both systems are designed to work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.
Vehicle Stability and Headlight Controls
Your Lexus CT 200h is equipped with advanced features to improve your driving experience, including Vehicle Stability Control and automatic headlight leveling systems.
VSC Warning Light
These features work together to provide a safer and more enjoyable drive. The Vehicle Stability Control system helps stabilize your vehicle in various driving conditions, such as slippery roads or sharp turns, by adjusting engine power and applying the brakes to individual wheels.
Headlight Warning Light
Meanwhile, the automatic headlight leveling system guarantees your headlights are properly aimed, providing maximum visibility and reducing glare for oncoming traffic.
If a fault is detected in either system, a warning light will illuminate on your dashboard, alerting you to take action to guarantee your safety on the road.
Hybrid System and Emission Controls
As you drive your Lexus CT 200h, its hybrid system and emission controls work in tandem to optimize fuel efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
Hybrid System Warning Light
The hybrid system seamlessly switches between different hybrid modes, ensuring the most efficient use of power. During emission checks, the system monitors and adjusts its performance to meet strict emissions standards.
Malfunction Indicator Light
If a fault is detected, the Malfunction Indicator Light will illuminate, indicating a generic fault in the hybrid system, electronic engine control system, or emission control system.
It’s essential to address these issues promptly to maintain your vehicle’s performance and minimize its environmental footprint.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) in your Lexus CT 200h is designed to guarantee ideal tyre pressure, which is crucial for safe driving, fuel efficiency, and tyre longevity.
TPMS Warning Light
This system monitors the pressure of each tyre and alerts you if it detects any abnormalities. It’s essential to perform regular Tyre Pressure Checks to verify the recommended pressure is maintained.
Tyre Inflation Tips: always check the pressure when tyres are cold, use a reliable pressure gauge, and adjust the pressure according to the vehicle’s load.
Additional Warning Lights
EV Mode Warning Light
This green “EV” symbol indicates your hybrid is running solely on electric power. If flashing or paired with a warning, it means restricted EV operation due to low battery charge, extreme temperatures, or system faults.
Hybrid Battery Warning Light
A red triangle with an exclamation mark signals a critical high-voltage battery issue. The vehicle may enter limp mode—never attempt DIY repairs due to the dangerous 300V system. Seek immediate professional assistance.
Automatic High Beam Warning
A blue headlight icon with an “A” means the auto high-beam assist is malfunctioning, often due to blocked cameras. The system reverts to manual control until cleaned or serviced.
Parking Assist Warning
A yellow “P” with sound waves appears when parking sensors are obstructed by dirt, ice, or damage. Clean the sensors or have the system checked to restore functionality.
Key Detection Warning
An amber key symbol flashes if the smart key isn’t detected. Replace the key fob’s CR2032 battery or place it in the emergency start position (near the start button).
12V Battery Warning
A red battery icon indicates a failing 12V auxiliary battery. Unlike the hybrid battery, this powers electronics—if weak, the vehicle may not start. Prompt testing/replacement is crucial.
Electric Parking Brake Warning
A red “P” with an exclamation mark signals a fault in the electric parking brake. Avoid steep slopes until repaired, as the brake may not engage properly.
Transmission Warning Light
A yellow gear icon with “!” indicates transmission or hybrid system issues. Reduced performance or limp mode may activate—diagnose immediately to prevent damage.
Power Steering Warning
A red steering wheel icon means electric power steering failure. Steering becomes heavier; pull over safely and restart the vehicle. If persistent, seek service.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning
A red oil can icon signals dangerously low oil pressure. Stop driving immediately to prevent engine damage. Check oil levels or leaks before restarting.
Coolant Temperature Warning
A red thermometer icon means engine overheating. Pull over, turn off the engine, and check coolant levels once cooled. Continued driving risks severe damage.
Lane Keeping Assist Warning
A yellow steering wheel icon with lanes appears if the lane-keeping system is unavailable (e.g., faded lane markings, heavy rain, or camera obstruction).
Blind Spot Monitor Warning
A yellow BSM icon with “OFF” indicates disabled blind-spot sensors due to dirt or system errors. Clean rear radar areas or restart the vehicle.
Adaptive Cruise Control Warning
A yellow radar icon with “!” signals a fault in the dynamic cruise system. Standard cruise may still work, but the collision avoidance feature could be disabled.
Additional Warning Lights
EV Mode Warning Light
This green EV symbol indicates the hybrid system is operating in electric-only mode. If accompanied by a warning, it signals restricted EV operation due to battery temperature or charge level.
Hybrid Battery Warning Light
This red triangle-with-exclamation symbol indicates critical high-voltage battery faults. The vehicle may enter reduced power mode. Never attempt DIY repairs – the 300V system carries lethal current.
Automatic High Beam Warning
This blue headlight symbol with “A” indicates faults in the auto high beam assist. The system reverts to manual control when malfunctioning, typically due to dirty windshield cameras.
Parking Assist Warning
This yellow “P” with waves symbol appears when parking sensors are obstructed or malfunctioning. Clean sensors or have system diagnosed to restore parking assistance functionality.
Key Detection Warning
This amber key symbol appears when the smart key isn’t detected. Try placing the fob in the emergency start position or replace the CR2032 battery if needed.
12V Battery Warning
This red battery symbol indicates issues with the auxiliary 12V battery. The hybrid system may not start if this battery fails. Have it tested and replaced if necessary.
Electric Parking Brake Warning
This red “P” with exclamation mark signals electric parking brake malfunctions. The brake may not engage/disengage properly. Avoid parking on steep inclines until repaired.
Remember these key points about warning light colors:
- Red: Stop immediately (safety critical)
- Yellow/Amber: Service required soon
- Green/Blue: System status information
Always consult your owner’s manual when warning lights appear and seek professional diagnosis for persistent warnings to maintain your Lexus CT 200h’s performance, safety and longevity. The vehicle’s advanced diagnostic systems provide detailed fault codes that help technicians quickly identify and resolve issues.
