Understanding Tesla dashboard warning lights is critical for safety and vehicle maintenance, as they provide real-time alerts about system statuses or potential issues. These lights use color coding: red for immediate stop, amber for soon action, and green for informational purposes.
Below is a comprehensive list categorized by color, with each entry including a concise description of its purpose, cause, and required action.
Quick Navigation
Red Warning Lights (Stop Immediately)
Brake System Fault
Low brake fluid or hydraulic failure detected. Stop driving immediately, park safely, and contact Tesla service.
Parking Brake Fault
Electrical fault with parking brake. Manually engage brake and contact Tesla; jump-start if 12V power is lost.
Airbag Safety Alert
Airbag system malfunction or failure. Do not drive; contact Tesla immediately for inspection.
ABS Fault
Anti-lock braking system failure. Drive cautiously (normal brakes work) but service soon.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Fault (Flashing)
System malfunction. Avoid high speeds and contact Tesla for repair.
Power Limitation (Tortoise Icon)
Severe battery depletion or system error. Charge immediately or service if persistent.
Air Suspension Disabled
System failure; suspension compromised. Stop driving and contact Tesla.
12V Power Loss
Auxiliary battery failure. Jump-start or service to release parking brake.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Fault
Stability system disabled. Drive cautiously and service soon.
Coolant System Alert
Engine overheating. Stop, wait for cool-down, and service.
Seat Belt Unfastened (Occupied Seat)
Occupant unbuckled. Secure belt before driving.
High Voltage Disconnect
Electrical system fault. Power off vehicle and contact Tesla.
Drive Inverter Error
Powertrain malfunction. Reduce speed and service.
Manual Parking Brake Engaged
Parking brake applied. Release before driving.
Critical Collision System Fault
Safety features disabled. Service immediately.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights (Action Required Soon)
Tire Pressure Alert
Under/over-inflated tire. Adjust pressure when cold and reset TPMS.
Regenerative Braking Limited
Reduced regen in cold weather. Precondition battery or drive gently.
Air Suspension Reduced Performance
System degradation. Service soon.
Electronic Stability Control Active
Minimizing wheel spin. Normal during slippage; flashes when active.
Door Ajar
Door not fully closed. Secure door before driving[common sense].
Battery Cold (Snowflake Icon)
Reduced battery capacity in cold. Warm battery via climate control.
Check Engine (Powertrain)
Motor or battery issue. Service soon[general EV knowledge].
Glow Plug (Diesel Equivalent)
Battery heating needed in cold. Precondition or drive gently.
ESP/TCS Off
Traction control disabled. Re-enable for normal conditions.
Transmission Fault
Gear system error (if applicable). Service soon.
DPF Alert (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Not applicable to Tesla (electric)[N/A].
Eco Mode Inactive
Energy-saving features off. Normal unless unintended.
Low Washer Fluid
Fluid level low. Top up reservoir[common sense].
Green Warning Lights (Information Only)
Fog Lights Active
Front/rear fog lights on. Turn off when not needed.
Parking Lights On
Side markers and taillights active. Normal during use.
Low Beam Headlights On
Headlights in low-beam mode. Standard operation.
High Beam Headlights On (Blue)
High beams active. Disable Auto High Beam if flashing.
Auto High Beam Ready
System enabled; adjusts based on light. No action needed.
Vehicle Hold Active
Brakes applied automatically. Release via accelerator.
Cruise Control Set
Speed maintained. Adjust or cancel as needed.
Autosteer Active
Autopilot steering engaged. Monitor road.
Charging Status
Vehicle charging. Unplug when complete.
Turn Signal Active
Blinker in use. Cancels automatically[common sense].
Navigation Active
Route guidance in progress. Follow prompts.
This list covers all major Tesla-specific dashboard indicators, prioritizing clarity and actionable steps. Always consult your vehicle manual for model-specific details.
