Symbols and Devices – Objectives

In this section we will learn about the following:

• Locating and explaining the purpose of the vehicle symbols (alert and warning) and vehicle devices (control, information, safety, communication, convenience, and comfort systems).
• The appropriate response to the information provided by the vehicle symbols.
• How to operate each vehicle device including turning the ignition to the “on” position to view vehicle symbols.
• The relationship and value of vehicle symbols and devices to vehicle maintenance.
• Mirror setting options and how appropriate settings reduce glare and mirror blind spots.
• How the locations and types of vehicle symbols and devices vary from vehicle to vehicle and how to compensate for variances including utilizing the vehicle owner’s manual as a resource.

Symbols and Devices Introduction

Symbols and devices provide necessary and important information to the driver. A driver must be able to recognize and utilize vehicle symbols and devices safely, before operating a vehicle. Dividing your attention between your dashboard and the road is tricky and can be unsafe when not done safely and efficiently. Even a quick glance at your speedometer or changing the radio station can be fatal, if the process in not completed efficiently and safely.

It will take time to learn how to efficiently and safely multitask between your vehicle’s dashboard and your driving environment. However, the more familiar you become with your vehicle’s symbols and devices locations, the better fit you will be to manage your overall driving environment safely.

There are many different vehicle makes and models, but the primary controls perform the same functions in all vehicles, regardless of placement and design. Familiarization with all vehicle control devices will allow a driver to operate the different devices easily and with less risk of being distracted from the driving task.

Symbols and Devices Introduction

Turning the ignition to the “on” position will light the symbols for a few seconds. It is important that you familiarize yourself with function, meaning and location of each symbol, prior to driving.

Remember that some of these signals will inform you if your vehicle is low on fuel, tire pressure or oil...so, knowing the location and meaning is imperative to your safety.

Design and location of alert/warning symbols and control devices will vary between vehicle models. Read your vehicle’s owner’s manual to familiarize yourself with your specific vehicles symbol placement and meaning.

Control Symbols

The following picture represents an instrument panel with lighted alert/warning lights.

Common Alert & Warning Lights

Depending upon the make and model of the vehicle, here are some common alert/warning lights:

Battery/Alternator Warning Light

This indicator light should come on for a few seconds when the engine is started. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, there's a problem with the electronic charging system and service is required.

Safety-Alert Symbol

Safety warnings and symbols draw attention to potential safety hazards. Usually, the words WARNING, CAUTION, or DANGER are used with a safety-alert symbol. The owner's manual explains the potential safety hazards whenever the safety-alert symbol activates.

Brake Warning Light

This indicator light should come on for a few seconds when the engine is started. If the light stays on or comes on while driving, there is problem that may affect occupant safety. Have the brake system serviced as soon as possible.

Emergency Flasher Indicator

Alerts the driver that the emergency flashers have been activated and the exterior front and rear turn signal lights are flashing simultaneously.

Windshield Washer Fluid Indicator

The “Low Fluid Light” comes on when the windshield washer fluid level is low. After fluid is added to the reservoir, the light goes off.

Headlights / High Beam Indicator

When this indicator light is on, the vehicle's headlamps are on. Indicators also alert the driver when high-beams lights are on.

Rear Defroster Indicator

A light will indicate when the rear defroster is on. In some vehicles, the defroster will automatically turn off after a few minutes and the light will go out.

Cruise Control Indicator

Notifies the driver that cruise control is activated. When activated, the driver can maintain a constant speed without having to keep use the accelerator. Applying the brake or clutch will turn it off.

Electronic Traction Control System (ETS)

The ETS indicator light will come on momentarily when the ignition switch is first turned on, when the traction control switch is turned “off”, or when the system malfunctions. Heavy use of the traction control system may cause the brake system to overheat.

Fog Lamp Indicator

Notifies the driver when fog lamps are on. These lamps are to be utilized when the weather is foggy or misty. Parking lamps or low beam headlamps must be turned on for the fog lamps to operate. Fog lamps will turn off when high-beam headlamps are turned on.

Seat Belt Reminder Light

When the key is turned in the ignition, the Seat Belt light will come on. Some vehicles are equipped to chime as well. When the driver and/or passengers fasten their seat belts, the light will go off.

Temperature Indicator

Alerts to engine coolant temperature. If this gauge moves into the red zone, there is a problem with the engine temperature. Pull over and stop the vehicle immediately to prevent serious engine damage. Let the engine idle with the air conditioner turned off.

Parking Lamp Indicator

When the parking brake is set, this indicator light will be activated. When released, the light will turn off.

Overdrive (O/D OFF)

When overdrive is off, an instrumental panel light will come on and stay on until overdrive is activated.

Exterior Lights

Instrument panel lights will notify a driver that the following exterior lights are on:

• Parking lamps
• High-beam headlamps
• Low-beam headlamps

Control Devices

Vehicle control devices allow a driver to control the vehicle, as well as control information, safety, communication, convenience and comfort systems. Control devices perform the same function in all vehicles. There are many different vehicle makes and models, but the primary controls perform the same functions in all vehicles, regardless of placement and design. Familiarization with all vehicle control devices will allow a driver to operate the different devices easily and with less risk of being distracted from the driving task.

A novice driver must learn that when operating any vehicle control, their attention should only be brief and then directed back to the roadway.

Listed on the following slides are some common vehicle control devices:

Control Devices: Ignition Switch

The ignition switch enables the driver to start and turn off the engine. It also allows use of the vehicle’s accessories and locks the steering wheel and gear selector.

The ignition switch is located in one of two places, either on the right side of the steering column or just to the right of the column on the dashboard. Some ignition switches require keys to turn the engine on and off, while others are push start and can be turned on and off by the push of a button.

• “ACC”essory – allows use of accessories such as the radio, windshield wipers, power windows, and other electrical equipment when the engine is turned off.
• LOCK – locks the ignition, steering wheel, and transmission. Only in this position can the key be removed.
• OFF – primarily used when towing, the ‘off’ position allows the driver to turn the steering wheel even though the engine is not running.
• ON – position of the key when the engine is running.
• START – starts the engine.

Control Devices: Steering

The steering wheel is used to guide the vehicle in the direction the driver wants to travel. Decide on the path of travel and put the vehicle in motion when using the steering wheel. If adjusting any vehicle control devices, release one hand to complete the task. The driver should not place one hand at the top of the wheel because of potential airbag injury and lack of balanced steering control.

Control Devices: Steering Wheel Adjustment

The steering wheel may be raised or lowered using a lever located on the left or right side of the steering column. Some vehicles are equipped to change the angle of the steering wheel by adjusting the entire steering column. Either type of adjustment allows a driver to achieve the best steering wheel angle for their needs. Adjust the steering wheel so that the airbag is aimed at your chest.

Control Devices: Parking Brake

The purpose of this brake is to hold a vehicle in place when it is parked and to protect the transmission. The parking brake may be either a foot operated pedal located to the far left side of the driver's foot position or a hand operated lever located to the right of the driver on the floor or center console.

To set a foot-operated parking brake, push down on the pedal. To release, push down on the pedal until a click is heard, then the pedal releases. In some vehicles, the release lever is a hand lever located above the parking brake on the underside of the dashboard. Pull to release. (Be careful not to pull the hood release.)

To set a floor or console mounted parking brake, pull back firmly on the lever. To release, press the button located on the tip of the lever with the thumb and lower.

Control Devices: Seat Adjustment

The adjustment lever or control to move the seat forward or back is typically located at the lower left side or lower front of the driver's seat. A second lever or control allows the driver to change the angle of the seat back.

Control Devices: Adjust Left/Right Side Mirror

Allows the driver to adjust both exterior side mirrors from the driver's seat. Press the arrows located on the control pad to adjust the mirrors.

Control Devices: Turn Signals

A lever on the right side of the steering column. Push the lever up and the right turn signal will flash on the right front and rear of the vehicle. Push the lever down and the left turn signal will flash on the left front and rear of the vehicle.

Control Devices: Left and Right Signal Indicator

An arrow will illuminate and flash on the instrument panel in the direction of the turn signal. A flashing arrow is activated when the turn signal lever is used or when the hazard lights are activated. If the arrow light does not flash or stays on, one of the exterior signal light bulbs is out and must be replaced.

Control Devices: Accelerator

• Foot-Operated
• Located on the Floor Board
• Located on the Right Side of the Driver’s Position
• Extensions may be Purchased if Needed

Control Devices: Gear Selector Lever

The gear selector for an automatic transmission vehicle is located on the steering column or on the console between the front seats. For a vehicle with a manual transmission the shift lever is located on the center console, on the floor to the right of the driver, or, on the right side of the steering column. Most vehicles have a lock release button to prevent shifting errors.

Gear selectors usually have these positions:

• P - Park, engine starting, and key removal
• R - Reverse
• N - Neutral
• D - Normal driving (O/D overdrive on/off switch)
• 2 - Stronger engine braking (availability based on vehicle model)
• L - Maximum engine braking (availability based on vehicle model)

The brake pedal must be depressed to shift gears in most vehicles. The overdrive switch is for selecting either three-speed or four-speed transmission operation.

Control Devices: Windshield Wipers / Washer

These functions are operated by a wiper control lever and/or knob. Placement of these controls will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Control Devices: Brake Pedal

This foot-operated pedal is located to the left of the accelerator. This is one of the most important controls to master because it enables the driver to slow and stop a vehicle by applying pressure. Pressure determines how rapidly a vehicle slows. Friction between the tires and road surface causes the vehicle to slow and stop. Extensions may be purchased if needed.

Read more about braking later in this section.

Control Devices: Horn

This device is to be used by drivers to warn others of the approach of the vehicle or of its presence. The horn is usually a button or pad found on the steering wheel.

Control Devices: Emergency Flashers

Notifies other drivers that there is a problem and the vehicle is disabled. The exterior front and rear turn signal lights flash simultaneously.

Control Devices: Defroster

This is a ventilation system that clears condensation and thaw frost from the windshield and/or side windows of a motor vehicle.

When activated, the defroster directs air through the windshield defroster outlets and through the heater outlets.

Control Devices: Hood Release

Allows access to engine and other items located under the hood.

To release the initial latch, pull the handle located inside the vehicle on the lower left side of the instrument panel. Then go to the front of the vehicle to release the secondary hood safety latch.

Overdrive Button

Pressing the overdrive button actually turns off the vehicle's overdrive mechanism and prevents the transmission from automatically sensing and shifting into this highest gear. Overdrive is the 4th or highest gear of an automatic transmission vehicle and allows better fuel efficiency under high-speed highway conditions.

Cruise Control

This control device allows a driver to set a speed and proceed without keeping their foot on the accelerator. This device is primarily used when traveling long distances and allows the driver to set and cruise at a constant speed. In some vehicles, this function will not engage if traveling under 25 mph. Do not use cruise control on wet or winding roads, or in heavy traffic.

Airbag On/Off Switch

Controls the right front passenger air bag and should only be turned off if the passenger in that seat is an infant, a child 1 to 12 years of age, or a person with a medical condition. When the switch is turned to “OFF”, the airbag will not be able to inflate. This option is NOT available on all vehicles.

Fuse/Fuse Box

Vehicle circuits are protected by a combination of fuses located in fuse box. See the owner's manual for location of the fuse box. If replacement is needed, only use a fuse with the correct amperage rating to avoid damage.

Door Locks

Locking devices are located on each door armrest. The master control is usually located on the driver side door armrest. Door locks are considered a safety feature to keep unauthorized persons out, and to protect occupants from being ejected in the event of a crash.

Heater, Ventilation and Air Conditioner (HVAC) Controls

These controls are located in a cluster on the instrument panel and are used to adjust the temperature and airflow inside the vehicle.

Trunk Release

This lever or button releases the trunk latch and allows the trunk to open. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for location details.

Drive Wheel Selector

This option allows a vehicle to shift into and out of 4-wheel drive. Not all vehicles are equipped with this option.

Lighter

To use, push into the receptacle. The lighter will automatically heat up and pop out to its normal position when ready to use.

12 Volt Extension Outlet

An accessory power outlet for auxiliary electrical equipment. When using this outlet, ensure the equipment does not exceed the maximum electrical load of 20 amps. Excessive electrical loads will blow a fuse. If this happens, check the vehicle owner's manual for the location of the fuse box and further instructions.

Interior Light Adjustment

A switch or knob used to control the interior lights of the vehicle. Operation may be manual, which allows occupants to turn the interior lights on and off manually when needed, or automatic, which turns interior lights on when the doors are opened, and turns off when doors are closed.

Power Window Controls

Located in the door's armrest or in the middle console. The master control on the driver's side door will operate all windows. On all other doors, the window control will operate only that window. The ignition switch must be turned on for the power window controls to work.

Braking

A driver regulates speed and stops of a vehicle by applying downward pressure on the brake pedal.

When a driver uses the brake pedal, the vehicle transmits the force from the foot to its brakes through a fluid. Since the actual brakes require a much greater force than that applied with a leg, the vehicle must also factor the force of the pedal depression. The amount of pressure determines how much and how rapidly the vehicle slows.

When the brake pedal is used, weight or center of mass is transferred to the front of the vehicle. If pressure on the brake pedal is forceful or hard, the front of the vehicle drops and the rear rises. Occupants can feel the forward movement and feel the safety restraints hold them in place.

To allow an even braking force on all four wheels, it’s best to slow or stop a vehicle while traveling in a straight line.

Braking (continued)

Correct use and pressure to the brake pedal is learned through practice and experience. Too little pressure and the vehicle will not stop at the desired spot. Too much pressure may cause the brakes to lock up; resulting in the loss of traction and directional control. A good braking technique is to stabilize the foot and control the brake pressure with the forces of the toes and ankle and not the thigh muscles.

Cover the Brake

This is a term that refers to a safe driving practice to ensure the driver is prepared to stop acceleration and begin braking, if necessary, in high-risk driving situations such as poor weather, high traffic areas, and driving near parked cars.

The technique involves the driver removing their foot from the accelerator and hovering the right foot over the brake pedal without touching the brake itself. This allows the driver to stop the vehicle sooner because reaction time between viewing a hazard and applying the brakes will be decreased.