Understanding your Nissan Sentra’s dashboard warning lights is crucial for preventing mechanical failures, ensuring safety, and maintaining optimal performance.
These indicators alert you to urgent issues, maintenance needs, or active systems, allowing timely action to avoid breakdowns or accidents. Below is a categorized guide to major dashboard lights specific to the Sentra.
Quick Navigation
Red Warning Lights (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure or overheating detected. Stop immediately, check oil levels, and avoid driving until resolved.
Brake System Alert
Low brake fluid or hydraulic failure. Park safely and contact a mechanic to prevent brake failure.
Coolant Temperature
Engine overheating. Turn off the engine immediately to prevent damage.
Airbag Warning
Airbag system fault. Immediate servicing required to ensure crash safety.
Charge System (Battery)
Battery or alternator failure. Stop driving to prevent stalling.
Master Warning
Generic alert for critical issues. Check the multi-information display for details.
Power Steering Failure
Steering system malfunction. Avoid driving and seek repairs.
Front Seat Belt
Unbuckled seatbelt while driving. Fasten immediately to avoid injury.
Door Ajar
Door not fully closed. Secure doors before driving.
Engine Overheating
Coolant temperature critically high. Stop and let the engine cool.
Reduced Power Warning
Engine output limited to prevent damage. Seek immediate service.
Transmission Warning
Transmission malfunction. Avoid heavy loads and service immediately.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights (Action Required Soon)
Check Engine
Engine or emissions system fault. Schedule diagnostics to prevent further damage.
Tire Pressure Low
Underinflated tires. Inflate to recommended PSI for safety and efficiency.
ABS Warning
Anti-lock brake system fault. Service brakes promptly to maintain stability.
Electronic Stability Control
ESC/ESP system error. Drive cautiously and repair to prevent skidding.
Diesel Particulate Filter
Clogged filter (diesel models). Clean or replace the DPF to restore performance.
Glow Plug
Diesel pre-heat issue. Allow extra warm-up time in cold conditions.
Lane Departure Warning
System malfunction. Clean sensors or service to restore alerts.
Forward Collision Mitigation Off
Collision avoidance system disabled. Reactivate or service for safety.
Service Reminder
Scheduled maintenance due. Reset after servicing.
Air Filter Clogged
Dirty air filter. Replace to maintain engine performance.
Rain Sensor Fault
Automatic wiper error. Clean the windshield or service sensors.
Key Fob Battery Low
Key battery depleted. Replace the battery soon to ensure functionality.
Low Fuel
Fuel level critically low. Refuel soon to avoid breakdown.
Suspension Warning
Suspension system fault. Drive cautiously and schedule repairs.
Green Warning Lights (Information Only)
ECO Mode
Fuel-efficient driving active. Optimizes engine performance.
Turn Signal
Direction indicators in use. Cancels automatically after turns.
Cruise Control
Speed set and maintained. Deactivate when traffic changes.
Fog Lights
Front/rear fog lights on. Use only in low-visibility conditions.
Automatic High Beams
High beams auto-adjusted. Manual override available.
Winter Mode
Traction control optimized for snow/ice. Deactivate on dry roads.
Parking Assist
Sensors active for parking. Audible alerts for obstacles.
Lane Keep Assist
Steering corrections applied. Stay attentive to road conditions.
Auto Start-Stop
Engine stops at idle. Restarts when accelerating.
Rear Defrost
Rear window heating active. Turns off automatically.
Headlights On
Regular beams engaged. Switch off when parked.
Electric Vehicle Mode
Hybrid/PHEV running on battery. Recharge when depleted.
Drive Mode Select
Driving profile active (e.g., Normal, Sport). Adjusts performance.
Security System
Alarm armed. Disarms automatically with the key fob.
This guide helps you interpret dashboard alerts promptly, ensuring safety and vehicle longevity. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific details.
When looking at Nissan, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Nissan Leaf, Nissan Navara-Frontier, Nissan Kicks, and Nissan Quest. 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.
Always consult your owner’s manual when warning lights appear and seek professional diagnosis for persistent warnings to maintain your TOPIC’s performance, safety and longevity. The vehicle’s advanced diagnostic systems provide detailed fault codes that help technicians quickly identify and resolve issues.
