Excavator Dashboard Symbols & Warning Lights Meaning

Excavator dashboards feature universal symbols, indicators, switches, and warning lights that provide operators with crucial real-time information about the machine’s operation, safety, and potential malfunctions. These symbols and indicators are critical for maintaining safe and efficient excavator operation. Operators should always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specific dashboard symbols related to their machine.

Each manufacturer may have variations in symbols and warning lights, so always refer to the excavator’s operator manual for specific meanings and troubleshooting steps. The universal symbols and warning lights on an excavator instrument panel provide essential information about the machine’s operation, performance, and potential issues.

1. 1a – ISO / SAE selector switch (1b – Attachment Quick Coupler switch).
2. Switch for automatic engine speed control – auto idle.
3. 3a – Switch for automatic shutdown (3b – Switch for attachment).
4. Ignition switch.
5. Hydraulic lock switch.
6. Switch for working lights on cab and boom.
7. Switch for variable tracks.
8. Switch for rotating beacon.
9. Switch for windscreen washer.
10. Switch for fan.
11. Display unit.

Most leading excavator brands – Caterpillar (CAT), Komatsu, Volvo, Hitachi, John Deere, JCB, Bobcat, Case, Hyundai, Kobelco, Kubota, and Takeuchi – use a standardized set of dashboard symbols and warning lights to comply with international safety and operational standards.

Excavator Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Offset Control Lamp	The offset control lamp lights up green after offset switch on the right hand control lever has been switched to offset.
	Tilting Enabled	Indicates that the hydraulic tilting function for attachments (e.g., a tilting bucket) is activated.
	Control Lever Direction	Indicates the operating direction of the control levers for various functions.
	Boom Up / Raise	Indicates the upward movement of the excavator boom.
	Boom Down / Lower	Indicates the excavator boom downward movement.
	Arm In	Indicates the inward movement of the excavator arm.
	Arm Out	Indicates the outward movement or raising of the excavator arm.
	Bucket Crowd	Indicates the inward movement of the excavator bucket.
	Bucket Dump	Indicates the excavator bucket dump movement.
	Boom Swing (Left)	Indicates the excavator boom left swing movement.
	Boom Swing (Right)	Indicates the excavator boom right swing movement.
	Quick Coupler Locked	Attachment quick coupler, opening control. The switch is returned automatically.
	Quick Coupler Unlocked	When the attachment quick coupler is open, the buzzer sounds and the warning message and indicator are displayed on the Instrument Cluster.
	Boom Float Position	Float position means that both the boom cylinders’ piston and piston rod sides are connected to the hydraulic tank. Float position gives better fuel economy, faster excavation cycle, less wear and less vibration.
	Power Boost Function	The power boost is designed to increase dipper arm / bucket forces, and lifting capacities. The power boost indicator is shown on the indicator screen of IC (Instrument Cluster) whenever it is activated.
	Work Mode Indicator	The icon for the current attachment being used displays.
	Auto-Idle Indicator	Auto-idle indicator will appear on monitor default screen when auto-idle is on.
	Pilot Shutoff Lever Alarm	Pilot shutoff lever system is abnormal.
	Overload Warning	Activates when the excavator experiences an overload condition, warning the operator of potential issues.
	Pipe-laying Mode	Pipe-laying mode is activated.
	Breaker / Hammer Mode Selected	Single Acting Enabled / It indicates that the machine’s auxiliary hydraulics are set to operate a hydraulic breaker attachment, optimizing flow and pressure for its use.
	Hydraulic Shear Selected	Shows that the hydraulic system is set to operate a shear attachment, optimizing pressure and flow.
	Double Acting Enabled	It indicates that the machine’s auxiliary hydraulic system is set to operate in double-acting mode, meaning hydraulic flow is available in both directions for attachments such as hydraulic thumbs, grapples, or tilt buckets.
	Rotator Enabled	Signals that the hydraulic rotator function (used for rotating grapples, shears, etc.) is activated.
	Lever Direction	Shows the movement direction of the machine when the travel levers are used.
	ISO Selector Switch	ISO control pattern is on.
	SAE Selector Switch	SAE control pattern is on.
	ISO / SAE Selector Switch	Denotes the option to switch between ISO and SAE control patterns for joystick operation.
	Pattern Changer Status	Displays the selected control pattern for the backhoe loader mode (ISO or SAE).
	Travel Speed	Indicates the current travel speed mode (low or high) of the excavator.
	Dozer Blade Enabled	Confirms that the dozer blade function is active and ready for operation.
	Dozer Blade Float	Indicates that the dozer blade is in float mode, allowing it to follow ground contours without hydraulic resistance.
	Dozer Blade Raise	Indicates the bulldozer blade upward movement.
	Dozer Blade Lower	Indicates the dozer blade downward movement.
	Dozer Blade Angle to Left	Shows that the dozer blade is angled to the left for grading or backfilling.
	Dozer Blade Angle to Right	Displays that the dozer blade is angled to the right for similar operations.
	Forward Travel	Indicates the direction for moving the excavator forward.
	Backward Travel	Indicates the direction for moving the excavator backward.
	Track Width Increase / Reduce	Used to adjust the track width, either widening or narrowing the tracks for stability or compactness.
	Grease	Indicates the need for greasing the excavator’s components.

Hydraulic-related Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Auxiliary Operation Indicator	Indicates that an auxiliary function is active.
	Auxiliary Hydraulic Port	Shows the status of auxiliary hydraulic ports.
	High Flow Indicator	Indicates that the hydraulic system is operating in high flow mode.
	High Flow	Indicates high hydraulic flow is active.
	AUX Hydraulic Port Hold M/F	Indicates the auxiliary hydraulic port hold mode/function is active.
	Hydraulic Lock Device	Indicates that the hydraulic lock device is engaged, preventing unintended hydraulic movements.
	Hydraulic Oil Temperature	Hydraulic oil temperature warning light.
	Hydraulic Oil Filter	Indicates the status of the hydraulic oil filter.
	AUX Electric Port	Shows the status of the auxiliary electric port.
	AUX Electric Port indicator	Indicates that the auxiliary electric port is active.
	AUX 14-Pin C Symbol	Shows the status of the 14-pin auxiliary electrical connector.

General Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Safety Alert Symbol	Indicates a safety alert or warning.
	Stop	Indicates a serious malfunction that requires immediate attention.
	Master System Warning	Alerts about a critical issue with the master system.
	Service Alert	Illuminates when a malfunction occurs (review error code in Information Display).
	Read Operator’s Manual	Indicates the need to consult the operator’s manual for information.
	Malfunction! (Alternative)	See operator’s manual.
	Setup / Settings	System Setup / Settings.
	Menu Button	A button to access different menu options on the display panel.
	Return to Default Screen	Push the return to default screen button to display the default screen.
	User Setting	Opens the user settings menu for adjusting machine preferences.
	Display Selector	Used to toggle between different display screens or system views.
	Fast	Indicates a high-speed setting or mode.
	Slow	Indicates a low-speed setting or mode.
	Cruise Control	Indicates that cruise control is engaged. Maintains a constant speed set by the operator.
	Limp Home	Activates a reduced power mode for emergency situations.
	Lock	Indicates that a function or system is locked or engaged.
	Unlock	Indicates that a function or system is unlocked.
	Escape	Allows exiting a menu or mode.
	ECO Mode	Indicates that the equipment is operating in economy mode, optimizing fuel efficiency.
	ON (Engaged)	Indicates that a system or function is active or engaged.
	OFF (Disengaged)	Indicates that a system or function is inactive or disengaged.
	Transmission Neutral Indicator	This light signifies that the transmission is in a neutral position.
	Operator Presence Sensor (OPS)	Illuminates when the operator’s seat is unoccupied, reminding the operator to sit properly for safe operation.
	Operator Presence Sensor (Alternative)	Illuminates when the operator’s seat is unoccupied.
	Operator Presence Control (Alternative)	This safety feature ensures that the equipment will not operate unless there is sufficient weight on the seat to indicate the presence of an operator.
	Seat Belt Control	Seat belt control lamp / indicator.
	Message	Vehicle messages button.
	Service Mode	Service mode selected.
	Service	Indicates that the excavator requires servicing or maintenance.
	Information	This switch is used to control the display of information on the instrument cluster, such as engine hours, fuel level, and other operational data.
	Warning! Corrosive Substance	Indicates the presence of a corrosive substance. Use caution when handling.
	Pressurised Open Carefully	Warns to open a pressurized component carefully to avoid injury.
	Hazard Warning Lights	Activates the hazard lights to warn others of potential danger.
	Audible Warning Device	Indicates the status of the audible warning device.

Engine-related Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Fuel Level	Indicates the level of fuel in the tank.
	Diesel Fuel	Indicates the level of diesel fuel in the tank.
	Automatic Fuel Shut-off	Signals that the automatic fuel shut-off system is active, preventing fuel flow.
	Hourmeter / Elapsed Operating Hours	Displays the total operating hours or elapsed time.
	Engine Temperature / Coolant Temperature	Warns the operator when the engine coolant temperature exceeds safe operating limits, indicating potential overheating.
	Low Coolant Level	Warns that the engine coolant level is low and needs to be refilled.
	Engine Coolant Temperature	Engine coolant temperature warning light.
	Engine Intake / Combustion Air Filter	Indicates the condition of the engine air filter. Warns the operator when the air filter becomes clogged or restricted, reducing airflow to the engine and affecting performance.
	Engine Oil Pressure	Indicates the oil pressure in the engine. Warns the operator when engine oil pressure drops below a safe level, indicating potential engine damage or oil system malfunction.
	Water Separator	Indicates the status of the water separator in the fuel system.
	Water in Fuel Warning	Indicates that there is water in the diesel fuel. This can be a serious issue, as water in diesel fuel can cause damage to the engine and fuel system.
	Engine Alert	Indicates various functions and warnings related to the engine and its operation (Engine Check).
	Engine Emissions Warning / Malfunction	It typically indicates an emissions-related issue, such as a problem with the exhaust aftertreatment system, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), or SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system.
	Engine Warning	Indicates the presence of a fault code or error condition in the engine control system, prompting the operator to address the issue promptly.
	Engine Rotational Speed	Displays the rotational speed of the engine.
	Engine Rotational Speed, Maximum	Limits the maximum engine speed to prevent damage.
	Engine Rotational Speed, Instantaneous Decrease	Alerts when the engine exceeds its maximum safe speed.
	Engine RPM Memory A	Stores and recalls a specific engine RPM setting.
	Engine RPM Adjuster	Allows adjustment of the engine RPM.
	Engine Rotational Speed, Instantaneous Increase	Increases the engine RPM.
	Engine Speed Control	Engine Speed Control.
	Engine Run	Indicates that the engine is running.
	Engine Start	Initiates the engine starting process.
	Starter Control	Indicates an issue or status related to the engine’s starting system (Automatic Start Assist / Starter Motor Engaged / Starter System Fault).
	Engine Stop	Stops the engine.
	Engine Heater (Low Temperature Start Aid)	When preheating is required, the preheat icon is automatically lit. If preheating is not required, the icon will not be lit.
	Engine Heater (Alternative)	This light may illuminate when the engine heater is in operation to warm up the engine in cold conditions.
	Diesel Preheat (Glow Plugs Activation)	It means the glow plugs are warming up to assist with cold engine starting.
	Regeneration	Initiates the regeneration process for the diesel particulate filter.
	Regeneration Inhibit	Prevents regeneration from occurring.
	DEF / AdBlue Trouble	Indicates a problem with the DEF or AdBlue system.
	Regeneration Switch	Activates the regeneration process manually.
	Parked Regeneration	Initiates regeneration while the vehicle is stationary.
	DEF / AdBlue-Level	Indicates the level of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) or AdBlue.
	High Exhaust Temperature	Indicates that the temperature inside the exhaust filter is high, which may require attention to prevent damage to the exhaust system.
	DEF / AdBlue Low Level	Alerts when the DEF or AdBlue level is low.
	DEF / AdBlue Poor Quality	Alerts when the quality of DEF or AdBlue is compromised.
	DEF / AdBlue Freeze	Alerts when DEF or AdBlue is at risk of freezing.

Body-related Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Travel Direction	Indicates the current direction of excavator travel.
	Transmission Service Required	Transmission service required.
	Auto Transmission	Engages automatic transmission mode.
	Auto Transmission (Alternative)	Engages automatic transmission mode.
	Auto Transmission Sensitivity	Adjusts the sensitivity of the automatic transmission.
	Transmission Oil Filter	Indicates a restricted or clogged transmission oil filter, which can impede hydraulic function and transmission performance.
	Transmission Oil Temperature	Warns the operator when the transmission oil temperature exceeds safe operating levels, indicating potential overheating or insufficient cooling.
	Gear Shifting Warning	Indicates a problem with gear shifting.
	Transmission Oil Pressure	Warns of low transmission oil pressure, which could affect transmission performance.
	High Range	Shows the transmission is in high gear range.
	Mid Range	Shows the transmission is in medium gear range.
	Low Range	Shows the transmission is in low gear range.
	High Speed Travel	Indicates that the excavator is operating in high speed mode.
	Mid Speed Travel	Shows the excavator is operating at medium speed mode.
	Low Speed Travel	Signals the excavator is in low-speed mode.
	Transmission Oil Filter	Warns of an issue with the transmission oil filter, such as needing replacement or cleaning.
	Brake	Alerts the operator to low brake fluid levels in the brake system, indicating potential brake failure or leakage.
	Parking Brake	Engages the parking brake. Illuminates when the handbrake or parking brake is engaged, reminding the operator to disengage it before driving.
	Air Brake	Indicates the status of the air brake system.
	Brake Failure / Malfunction	Alerts about brake system failure or malfunction.
	Brake Fluid Level	Warns that the brake fluid level is low, which may affect braking performance.

Electric-related Dash Symbols

Symbol	Name	Dashboard Symbol Description
	Battery Charging Condition	Indicates a malfunction in the charging system, typically caused by a faulty alternator or battery, which may result in battery discharge.
	Electrical Power Accessories	Indicates the status of electrical power accessories.
	Master Lighting Switch	Controls the master lighting system.
	Headlight Low Beam	Activates low beam headlights.
	Headlight High Beam	Illuminates the headlights for visibility in low-light conditions or during nighttime operation.
	Headlight Flashing	Activates the headlight flash function.
	Work Light	Activates excavator work lights.
	Position Lamps	Controls position lamps.
	Turn Signal	Indicates excavator turn signals.
	Beacon Light	Controls beacon lights.
	Windshield Wiper	Activates windshield wipers.
	Windshield Wiper Intermittent	Activates intermittent windshield wiper function.
	Windshield Washer	Activates windshield washer.
	Rear Window Defroster	Activates rear window defroster.
	Seat Heater Switch	Use switch to turn seat heater ON or OFF.
	Air Flow Direction	Air flow direction switch / indicator.
	Air Conditioner Indicator	Activates air conditioner.
	Air Conditioner	It indicates that the air conditioning system is active and cooling the cabin.
	Heater Fan	Indicates that the heater fan is operational, providing ventilation or warmth to the cab.

Excavator manufacturers follow guidelines set by international standards, such as:

• ISO 7000 & ISO 3767 (Graphical Symbols for Operator Controls & Displays).
• SAE J1385 & J1057 (Standardized Symbols for Construction & Agricultural Equipment).
• ANSI & EU Machinery Directives.

While symbols may have slight variations in design across brands, they generally follow the same functions and meanings to ensure universal operator understanding.