Volvo XC40 Dashboard Symbols: Complete Guide to Warning Lights and Meanings (2018–2025)

The Volvo XC40 is an elegant compact SUV known for Scandinavian design and exceptional safety technology. Yet, even the most refined vehicles rely on dashboard symbols to communicate essential information. Understanding what each light means can help you prevent costly repairs, maintain safety, and keep your XC40 running smoothly.

In this definitive guide, we explain every dashboard symbol, warning light, and indicator found in Volvo XC40 models from 2018 to 2025, including petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and electric variants.

Understanding Volvo Dashboard Symbol Colors

Before diving into individual lights, note the color codes used by Volvo:

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• Green/Blue – System active or feature engaged. No action needed.
• Yellow/Amber – Caution. A system requires attention or maintenance.
• Red – Urgent. A serious issue that may affect safety or performance.
• Flashing Lights – Immediate action required. Stop the vehicle safely.

Engine and Powertrain Symbols

1. Check Engine Light

• Meaning: Indicates a malfunction in the engine or emission control system.
• Possible Causes: Loose fuel cap, faulty spark plug, bad oxygen sensor, or fuel mixture imbalance.
• Action: Avoid prolonged driving; schedule a diagnostic test immediately.

2. Low Engine Oil Pressure

• Meaning: Oil level is critically low or oil pressure is lost.
• Action: Stop the engine immediately and check oil levels. Driving further can cause severe engine damage.

3. High Coolant Temperature

• Meaning: The engine temperature exceeds safe limits.
• Possible Causes: Low coolant, radiator leak, or malfunctioning water pump.
• Action: Stop and let the engine cool down before inspecting coolant.

4. Glow Plug Indicator (Diesel Only)

• Meaning: Preheating system active during cold starts.
• If Flashing: A fault exists in the glow plug circuit or diesel system.

Braking System and Safety Warnings

5. Brake System Warning

• Meaning: Low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or parking brake engaged.
• Action: If light stays on after releasing the handbrake, visit a Volvo service center.

6. ABS Fault Indicator

• Meaning: The Anti-lock Braking System has malfunctioned.
• Impact: Regular braking still works, but anti-lock control is disabled.
• Action: Seek professional inspection promptly.

7. ESC / ESP Indicator

• Meaning: Electronic Stability Control activated or faulty.
• Action: If flashing, the system is intervening. If permanently on, inspection is required.

Electrical and Battery Alerts

8. Battery Charge Warning

• Meaning: Alternator or battery voltage too low.
• Action: Turn off unnecessary electrical systems. Avoid long drives until the issue is resolved.

9. Steering Lock Indicator

• Meaning: Steering wheel locked as an anti-theft measure.
• Action: Wiggle the wheel slightly while turning the ignition key or start button.

Lighting and Visibility Indicators

10. Low Beam / High Beam

• Low Beam Symbol: Normal driving lights active.
• High Beam Symbol: Used for dark country roads.
• Note: Avoid using high beams within 400 m (1,000 ft) of oncoming traffic.

11. Automatic Lights

• Meaning: System controlling headlights automatically based on ambient light.
• If Fault Appears: A sensor malfunction may require manual override.

12. Fog Lights

• Front Symbol: Front fog lamps active.
• Rear Symbol: Rear fog lamps on (use only in foggy conditions).

13. Heated Windscreen Indicator

• Meaning: Defrosting mode active.
• Note: Automatically turns off after a few minutes.

Driver Assistance and Comfort Indicators

14. Cruise Control Activated

• Meaning: Cruise control system ready or engaged.
• Action: Adjust with the steering-mounted controls to maintain desired speed.

15. Lane Keeping Assist

• Meaning: The system detects lane boundaries and assists steering correction.
• Activation: Usually above 40 km/h (25 mph).

16. Front Radar / Adaptive Cruise

• Meaning: Sensor detects vehicles ahead for adaptive braking and cruise control.
• Warning: If symbol turns amber or red, radar may be obstructed by dirt or ice.

17. ECO Mode

• Meaning: Fuel-efficient mode enabled.
• Effect: Reduced throttle sensitivity to save fuel.

18. Air Suspension Fault (if equipped)

• Meaning: Suspension system malfunction.
• Causes: Air leak, deflated airbag, or sensor failure.
• Action: Drive cautiously and have the system inspected.

Doors, Hood, and Boot Indicators

19. Bonnet / Hood Open

• Meaning: Front hood not securely latched.
• Action: Close properly and ensure latch clicks.

20. Boot / Trunk Open

• Meaning: Rear boot not closed.
• Action: Ensure full closure before driving.

21. Door Ajar

• Meaning: One or more doors not properly shut.
• Action: Secure all doors firmly.

Tyre and Wheel Indicators

22. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• Meaning: One or more tyres under-inflated or sensor malfunction.
• Action: Check tyre pressures and reset TPMS if necessary.
• Tip: XC40 models often require re-calibration after rotation or replacement.

23. Check Wheel Warning

• Meaning: Fault related to wheel alignment or balance.
• Action: Seek wheel inspection and alignment correction.

Interior and Convenience Lights

24. Heated Seats

• Meaning: Seat heating engaged; multiple bars show heat intensity.
• Note: System switches off automatically after prolonged use.

25. Service Reminder

• Meaning: Vehicle is due for scheduled service.
• Action: Visit an authorized Volvo workshop to reset the interval counter.

Additional Information Indicators

26. Attention or General Warning Light

• Meaning: Draws attention to other active warning symbols.
• Action: Review all dashboard indicators.

27. Intermediate Windscreen Wipers

• Meaning: Automatic wiper mode enabled.
• Action: No driver input needed.

28. Park Symbol

• Meaning: Gear selector in “P” position.
• Action: Standard when parked or stationary.

Symbol Color Quick Reference

Common Scenarios and Solutions

• Engine warning + traction control light: May indicate misfire or fuel system issue.
• Battery + ABS light together: Alternator failure likely.
• TPMS + ESC warning: Tyre pressure affecting stability system.

If multiple warning lights appear simultaneously, reduce speed, stop safely, and call your Volvo service center.

Final Thoughts

The Volvo XC40’s dashboard serves as a precise communication hub, alerting you to everything from a door ajar to complex powertrain faults. Recognizing and responding promptly to these symbols ensures your SUV remains safe, efficient, and reliable for years to come. Always consult your Volvo Owner’s Manual and contact a certified mechanic if uncertain about any indicator.

FAQs About Volvo XC40 Dashboard Symbols

1. Can I reset the warning lights manually?
Some alerts, such as service reminders, can be reset through the infotainment menu. However, system or safety warnings require diagnostics.

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2. Why does the check engine light appear intermittently?
A minor fault like a loose fuel cap can trigger it. Persistent illumination demands inspection.

3. How often should I check tyre pressures?
At least once a month or before long trips to prevent TPMS warnings and uneven wear.

4. Is it safe to drive with the ABS light on?
Yes, but braking distances may increase. Schedule a repair soon.

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5. What does the yellow triangle warning mean?
It’s a general attention symbol that accompanies other active alerts on your XC40.

If you want to know other articles similar to Volvo XC40 Dashboard Symbols: Complete Guide to Warning Lights and Meanings (2018–2025) you can visit the category Service and Parts.