Understanding dashboard warning lights in your Nissan Navara or Frontier is essential for safe driving, as they alert you to potential issues that could lead to breakdowns or accidents.
Ignoring them might result in costly repairs or unsafe conditions, so regular checks and prompt action help maintain your vehicle’s performance and longevity. This guide covers major lights based on common indicators for these models, categorized by urgency.
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Red Warning Lights (Stop Immediately)
These lights signal serious problems requiring you to pull over safely and stop driving right away to avoid damage or danger.
Engine Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure can cause engine damage from lack of lubrication. Often due to low oil levels or pump issues. Stop the vehicle, check oil level, and add if needed; do not drive until fixed.
Brake System Alert
Indicates low brake fluid or a failure in the braking system, risking loss of stopping power. Pull over immediately, check fluid level, and seek a mechanic if low or light persists.
Battery Charge Warning
The battery isn’t charging properly, possibly from a faulty alternator or belt. Stop driving, inspect belts, and get professional help to avoid stranding.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Engine is overheating, which could lead to severe damage. Caused by low coolant or leaks. Pull over, let it cool, check coolant, and refill; visit a service center.
Airbag Warning
Airbag system may not deploy in a crash, due to sensor or wiring faults. Stop and have it inspected immediately for safety.
Power Steering Failure
Loss of power steering makes turning hard and unsafe. Often from low fluid or system malfunction. Stop safely and contact a mechanic.
Transmission Overheat
Transmission fluid is too hot, risking gear damage. Pull over to cool down and check fluid; do not drive until resolved.
Seatbelt Reminder
A passenger isn’t buckled up, increasing injury risk in accidents. Stop and ensure all seatbelts are fastened before continuing.
ABS Fault Critical
Anti-lock brakes are failing, which could cause wheel lockup in emergencies. Stop and get it checked to restore safe braking.
Low Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is critically low, affecting stopping ability. Pull over, add fluid if possible, and seek immediate repair.
Engine Overheat Alert
Similar to coolant warning, signals extreme engine heat. Stop, turn off engine, and wait to cool; inspect for causes like radiator issues.
Master Warning Critical
General alert for severe issues like multiple system failures. Pull over and consult manual or mechanic immediately.
Charging System Failure
Alternator or electrical system isn’t working, leading to battery drain. Stop and inspect; tow if needed.
Emergency Brake Engaged
Parking brake is on while driving, causing wear or drag. Stop and release it fully.
Fuel System Fault
Critical fuel delivery issue, possibly pump failure. Stop to prevent engine stall and get it fixed.
Steering Lock Alert
Steering is locked, preventing safe control. Stop and resolve before driving.
Overdrive Off Critical
Overdrive system failure in high-speed scenarios, risking transmission damage. Pull over and inspect.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights (Action Required Soon)
These indicate issues that need attention soon to prevent escalation, but you can usually drive to a safe spot or service center.
Check Engine Light
Engine or emissions problem, like a faulty sensor. Schedule service soon to diagnose and fix.
Tire Pressure Monitoring
One or more tires have low pressure, affecting handling. Check and inflate tires soon; monitor for leaks.
ESP Fault
Electronic stability program isn’t working, reducing traction control. Drive carefully and service soon.
Glow Plug Indicator
For diesel models, glow plugs are heating or faulty. Wait to start if on; service if it stays lit.
Door Ajar
A door isn’t fully closed, risking items falling out. Check and secure all doors soon.
DPF Warning
Diesel particulate filter is clogged, needing regeneration or cleaning. Drive at highway speeds or visit service.
Transmission Alert
Minor transmission issue, like fluid level. Check fluid and service soon to avoid bigger problems.
Coolant Level Low
Coolant is below safe levels, risking overheat. Top up coolant and check for leaks soon.
Exhaust Fluid Low
For diesel, urea fluid is low, affecting emissions. Refill soon to comply and maintain performance.
Reduced Power Mode
Engine power is limited for protection. Drive to service center to diagnose cause.
Service Soon Reminder
General maintenance due, like oil change. Schedule an appointment promptly.
Fuel Filter Water
Water in fuel filter, common in diesels. Drain filter soon to prevent engine issues.
Traction Control Off
Traction system is disabled or faulty. Enable or check soon for better grip.
Wiper Fluid Low
Windshield washer fluid is low. Refill soon for clear visibility.
Eco Mode Alert
Eco driving mode is active but may need adjustment. Check settings if unintended.
Green Warning Lights (Information Only)
These lights provide status updates on active systems and don’t require action unless something seems off.
Cruise Control Active
Cruise control is on, maintaining set speed. No action needed; adjust as desired.
High Beam Indicator
High beam headlights are in use. Switch to low beams when approaching traffic.
Turn Signal Indicator
Turn signals are flashing for direction change. Ensure they turn off after use.
Hazard Lights On
Hazard flashers are activated for emergencies. Turn off when no longer needed.
Overdrive Engaged
Overdrive mode is active for better fuel efficiency. Normal operation; no action.
Eco Mode Indicator
Fuel-saving eco mode is enabled. Drive normally; disable if preferred.
Front Fog Lights
Front fog lamps are on for low visibility. Use only when necessary.
Rear Fog Lights
Rear fog lamps are active. Turn off in clear conditions to avoid blinding others.
Hill Descent Control
System is helping control speed on declines. Active during off-road use.
Traction Control Active
Traction system is working on slippery surfaces. No action; it aids stability.
Automatic Headlights
Headlights are on automatically. Adjust settings if needed.
Glow Plug Heating
Glow plugs are warming the diesel engine. Wait until it turns off to start.
Parking Lights On
Parking lights are illuminated. Use for visibility when parked.
Sport Mode Active
Sport driving mode is engaged for performance. Switch modes as needed.
4WD Engaged
Four-wheel drive is active for better traction. Disengage on dry roads.
Idle Stop Active
Engine auto-stop for fuel saving is on. Restarts when you press accelerator.
Lane Departure Assist
System is monitoring lanes and active. Helps prevent unintentional drifts.
Blind Spot Monitoring
Alerts for vehicles in blind spots are enabled. Use mirrors for confirmation.
When looking at Nissan, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Murano, Nissan Qashqai, and Nissan Juke. Understanding dashboard warning lights is essential. Our expert reviews break down what each light means, highlighting common alerts for these models and what they could signal about underlying issues, so you’re never left guessing behind the wheel.
