Understanding every light on your Tacoma’s dashboard keeps you safe, prevents expensive repairs, and helps you spot issues before they become breakdowns. Think of the cluster as a traffic-light system: red means stop now, yellow means act soon, and green simply informs.
Quick Navigation
Red (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure or overheating. Pull over, shut the engine off, and check oil level; add oil or call a tow if the light stays on.
Brake System
Brake fluid low, parking brake on, or hydraulic fault. Stop in a safe spot and seek professional help.
Battery / Charging
Alternator or battery fault; vehicle may stall. Turn off extras and head to a workshop promptly.
Coolant Temperature
Engine overheating. Stop, let the engine cool, and check coolant; do not drive if temperature stays high.
SRS Airbag
Airbag system fault; bags may not deploy. Avoid driving passengers until inspected by a dealer.
ABS (red BRAKE)
Severe brake-control failure. Brake power reduced; tow the vehicle to service.
Power Steering (EPS)
Loss of steering assist. Steering may feel heavy; pull over and repair before continuing.
Master Warning Triangle (red)
Critical fault detected. Check the multi-information display and act at once.
Seatbelt Reminder
Driver or passenger belt unfastened while moving. Stop and buckle up; light disappears when latched.
Door Ajar
Any door, hood, or tailgate open while driving. Stop and close fully.
Rear Differential Lock Fault
Lock malfunction; off-road handling unsafe. Disengage 4WD modes and get the system checked.
PCS (Pre-Collision) OFF (red)
Collision-avoid system disabled due to fault; braking assist unavailable. Drive cautiously to service.
Low Brake Fluid
Fluid below minimum; braking compromised. Stop and refill or call a mechanic.
Transmission Temperature
Automatic-transmission fluid dangerously hot. Pull over, shift to Park, and let it cool before proceeding.
Yellow / Amber (Action Required Soon)
Check Engine (MIL)
Emission or engine-control issue. Schedule diagnostic; avoid hard driving.
Tire Pressure (TPMS)
One or more tires under-inflated. Inflate to spec; inspect for punctures.
Traction Control (TRAC)
System fault or switched off; reduced grip on slick roads. Drive carefully and service if constant.
VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)
Stability aid malfunction. Cornering safety reduced; visit a dealer soon.
ABS (amber)
Anti-lock brake fault; normal brakes work but no ABS. Book service promptly.
Brake Pad Wear
Pads near minimum thickness. Plan brake replacement soon.
Fuel Filter / Water in Fuel
Excess water detected in diesel filter. Drain water or replace filter.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Filter clogged. Perform regeneration drive or have the dealer clean the system.
Glow Plug (diesel)
Faulty heater plugs; cold starts may fail. Replace plugs soon.
4LO Indicator Flash
4-Low system malfunction. Avoid off-road use until fixed.
Low Fuel
Range very low. Refuel as soon as possible.
Washer Fluid Low
Wiper-washer tank nearly empty. Refill fluid reservoir.
Maintenance Required
Oil-change interval reached. Book routine service.
Key Battery Low
Smart-key battery weak; replace coin cell soon.
Blind-Spot Monitor
Sensor blocked or fault. Clean bumper area; service if it persists.
Green (Information Only)
Turn Signal
Flashes with indicator stalk; reminds you the signal is active.
Headlight High Beam
High beams on; dim for oncoming traffic.
Cruise Control Ready
System armed but speed not set.
ECO Mode
Economy drive selected to save fuel.
DRL (Daytime Running Lights)
Daytime lights operating normally.
4WD High Engaged
Four-wheel drive activated; suitable for slippery roads.
Rear Differential Locked
Diff lock engaged for tough terrain.
Lane Departure Alert ON
System watching lane markings; audible and visual alerts active.
PCS (Pre-Collision) Active
Collision-avoidance system ready.
Automatic High Beam
Auto high-beam control armed; system will dip beams automatically.
Fog Lights ON
Front fogs activated for low-visibility driving.
Seatbelt Fastened Indicator
All occupied seats buckled; light confirms status.
Security Indicator
Immobilizer active while the vehicle is off; normal operation.
When looking at Toyota, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Toyota Venza, Toyota Sequoia, Toyota Land-Cruiser, and Toyota Fortuner. 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.
