VW Atlas Cross Sport dashboard lights and what they mean

This article will help you identify the dashboard light symbols and what they mean in VW Atlas Cross Sport.

VW Atlas Cross Sport – (photo by Volkswagen)

The status of some functions inside the vehicle and vehicle components are checked when the ignition is switched on or while driving. Malfunctions are indicated by red and yellow warning symbols in the instrument cluster display and may also be signaled audibly in some cases. The appearance of texts and symbols may vary depending on the instrument cluster version.


The warning and indicator lights can turn on individually or in combination with each other and indicate warnings, malfunctions and certain functions in VW Atlas Cross Sport. Some warning and indicator lights come on when you switch the ignition on and must turn off after some time.

Priority 1 warning message

The red central warning light flashes or comes on, in some cases together with warning tones or additional symbols. “STOP: Do not continue driving!” There is a hazard. Check the malfunction. Immediately contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.

If there are multiple warning messages, the symbols will appear consecutively for several seconds. The symbols will appear until the malfunction is corrected.

Fasten safety belt

The driver or front passenger has not fastened their safety belt. Fasten all safety belts. When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lamps light up temporarily as a function check. They then turn off after a few seconds. A chime also sounds. When the ignition is switched on, the red warning light comes on for six seconds. A chime also sounds for up to six seconds if the driver safety belt is not fastened. The chime ends when the driver fastens their safety belt. The warning lamps and chime go off when the driver and front passenger have fastened their safety belts.

Electronic parking brake

If the electronic parking brake is switched on, the red indicator light comes on in the instrument cluster.

/ Brake system malfunction

A malfunction is detected in the braking system. Immediately contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.


Brake fluid level too low: The symbol will also appear if brake fluid level is too low. The brake fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX markings on the brake fluid reservoir

/ Brake pad wear indicator

The warning light flashes or turns on red or yellow. The front brake pads are worn. Have all brake pads inspected and replaced, if necessary.

Take over steering and be ready to brake

Driver intervention request: If automatic deceleration by the ACC is not sufficient or the system limits are reached, the ACC will prompt you – with a message in the instrument cluster – to also apply the brakes. The red warning light will also turn on and a warning tone will sound. Take over steering and be ready to brake.

Engine oil level too low

The red warning light blinks. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Do not continue driving! Engine damage could result. Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Stop the engine. Check the engine oil level. If necessary, top up the engine oil gradually in small quantities (not more than 0.5 qt in total) or observe the top-up recommendation in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. If the warning light lights up, do not continue driving or let the engine run, even if the oil is at the correct level. Engine damage could result. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.

Engine oil pressure too low

The red warning light blinks. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Do not continue driving! Engine damage could result. Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Stop the engine. Check the engine oil level. If the warning light flashes, do not continue driving or let the engine run, even if the oil is at the correct level. Engine damage could result.

Engine coolant system malfunction

The red central warning light turns on. A message also appears in the instrument cluster display. Or: the warning light blinks red. The engine coolant level is incorrect or the engine coolant system is malfunctioning. Do not continue driving! Stop the vehicle, stop the engine, and let it cool down. Check the engine coolant level

Steering malfunction

The red warning light turns on or flashes. There is an electromechanical steering or electronic steering column lock malfunction.  Do not continue driving! If the red warning light turns on, it may be difficult to move the steering wheel because the electromechanical steering system is malfunctioning. If the red warning light blinks, the steering column cannot unlock.

Rear Traffic Alert has detected an obstacle to the rear

If there is an obstacle, a warning signal will sound. Depending on the vehicle equipment, a color indication of the obstacle zone appears in the Infotainment system and/or a warning or indicator light appears in the instrument cluster along with a message. If the driver does not respond, automatic braking support may kick in.


12 V energy supply malfunction

The red warning light turns on. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Do not continue driving! Possible failure of the electrical system. Stop the vehicle immediately and park it safely. Turn off electrical equipment that is not needed. Switch the ignition off. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance. When the red warning light is illuminated, the start-stop system is switched off. The start-stop system will only be automatically switched on again after the engine is restarted.

Collision warning

Front Assist detects a possible collision and prepares the vehicle for possible emergency braking. A warning tone sounds and the warning light turns on. Apply the brakes or maneuver to avoid the collision.

Take over the steering immediately

The red warning light will come on and a message will be shown in the instrument cluster display. An audible warning will sound or the steering wheel will vibrate, depending on the driving situation. You have let go of the steering wheel for a long period of time or the system limits have been reached. Immediately take hold of the steering wheel and take over steering the vehicle.

Priority 2 warning message

The yellow central warning light flashes or comes on, in some cases together with warning tones or additional symbols. Malfunctions or insufficient operating fluids can cause vehicle damage and vehicle malfunctions. Check the malfunction as soon as possible.

Airbag system or safety belt pretensioner malfunction

Airbag system or safety belt pretensioner malfunction: The yellow indicator light stays on. There may also be a message in the instrument cluster display. A malfunction has been detected in at least one of the airbags or safety belt pretensioners.

Airbag system or safety belt pretensioners deactivated with diagnostic equipment: After the ignition is switched on, the yellow indicator light turns on for about four seconds and then blinks for about twelve seconds. There may also be a message in the instrument cluster display. At least one airbag or safety belt pretensioner has been deactivated by a diagnostic device.

Front passenger’s airbag disabled

The yellow indicator light stays on. The front passenger’s front airbag has been deactivated. Check whether the front passenger’s front airbag has to be deactivated. If the front passenger’s front airbag is incorrectly deactivated, there may be a malfunction in the airbag system.

Emergency Call Service limited / malfunction

Emergency Call Service limited: The red indicator light in the emergency call button comes on and remains on . The message Emergency call function limited. Service vehicle may also be displayed in the instrument cluster. The Emergency Call Service function has restricted availability. For example, you cannot make a voice call to the VW Car-Net® call center.

Emergency Call Service malfunctioning: The red indicator light in the emergency call button comes on and remains on . The message Error: Emergency call function. Service vehicle may also be displayed in the instrument cluster. There is a system error with the Emergency Call Service. You may not be able to make an emergency call.

Electronic parking brake malfunction

The yellow central warning light comes on. The symbol with a message is additionally shown in the instrument cluster display. The system has detected a malfunction in electronic parking braking system.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction or in operation

Flashes: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-slip regulation (ASR) in operation: ESC is regulating the vehicle to reduce the risk of skidding and improve driving stability. The indicator light flashes yellow. Or, ASR is regulating the vehicle to reduce the risk of the wheels spinning. The indicator light flashes yellow. ASR reduces drive power at wheels that are spinning and adapts the drive power to the road conditions. ASR makes it easier to start, accelerate, and drive up hills

Comes on: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction: The yellow indicator light turns on. ESC has been switched off. There is a fault or malfunction. Switch the ignition off and on. Drive a short distance at a speed of approximately 15 km/h (approx. 9 mph) to 20 km/h (approx. 12 mph). If the  indicator light stays on, contact a suitably qualified professional.

ASR ESC switched off, or ESC Sport switched on

Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) switched off: ASR manually switched off. The yellow indicator light turns on. It can be helpful to switch off ASR when the vehicle is driven on loose ground or when “rocking” the vehicle out of place because it is stuck.

Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) switched off: ESC manually switched off. The yellow indicator light turns on. The function assists with sporty driving for experienced drivers. The ESC is switched off and stabilizing interventions are not performed.

ESC Sport switched on: ESC Sport is switched on. The yellow indicator light turns on. The function assists with sporty driving. The ESC intervenes later to stabilize the vehicle, e.g. during fast cornering.

/ Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) malfunction

ABS failure or malfunction. The yellow indicator light turns on. The vehicle can be braked without ABS.

Engine oil level too low / high

The yellow indicator light turns on. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Stop the engine. Check the engine oil level. If necessary, top up the engine oil gradually in small quantities (not more than 0.5 l (0.5 qt) in total) or observe the top-up recommendation in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. If the indicator light comes on, do not continue driving or let the engine run, even if the oil is at the correct level. Engine damage could result.

/ Engine oil system malfunction

The indicator light flashes yellow. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Contact a suitably qualified professional.

Fuel tank almost empty

The yellow indicator light turns on. The reserve supply is being used. Refuel at the next opportunity. Never drive with a completely empty fuel tank. Irregular fuel supply can result in misfiring and unburnt fuel entering the exhaust system.

Travel Assist not available

Comfort drive Travel Assist is not available or is not working as expected. The yellow indicator light turns on. In addition, a message is shown in the instrument cluster display. There is a malfunction in the sensor system. Stop the engine and restart. The system limitations are not adhered to.

Fuel tank cap not closed

The yellow indicator light turns on. Close the fuel tank cap.

Driving light failure

The yellow indicator light turns on. The headlights have completely or partially failed. Check the lights and replace any bulbs as necessary.

Rain/light sensor malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on. In the AUTO light switch position, the vehicle lighting will not turn on or off automatically. Switch the ignition off and on. If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional.

Windshield wiper malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on. The windshield wipers are not working. Switch the ignition off and on. If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional.

Washer fluid level too low

The yellow indicator light turns on. Fill the washer fluid reservoir

Steering malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on or flashes. The steering is stiffer or more sensitive than usual.

The indicator light comes on permanently: Restart the engine and drive the vehicle slowly for a short distance. If the indicator light stays on, contact a suitably qualified professional and have the system checked.

The indicator light blinks: Turn the steering wheel back and forth slightly. Switch the ignition off and back on. Pay attention to the messages in the instrument cluster display. If the indicator light continues to flash after switching the ignition back on, do not continue driving.

Tire pressure low / malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on. The tire pressure of one or more tires has decreased or the tire is structurally damaged. Do not continue driving! Check and correct all tire pressures. Replace damaged tires. Recalibrate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional.

The yellow indicator light flashes for approximately one minute and then stays on. There is a system malfunction. Do not continue driving! Switch the ignition off and back on again. Recalibrate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional.

Front Assist is switched off

If you switch off Front Assist, the advance warning and distance warning will also be switched off. The yellow indicator light turns on in the instrument cluster display.

Autonomous Emergency Braking starts

The indicator light lights up white or yellow depending on the country. Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) is temporarily not available or has limited availability. After driving straight for a short distance, Autonomous Emergency Braking is available again and the indicator light goes out. If the vehicle does not drive, the indicator light stays on.

Cruise control system malfunction

Cruise control system is malfunctioning. The yellow indicator light turns on. Switch off CCS and seek assistance from suitably qualified professionals.

Speed warning

The warning can be set for speeds between 18 mph (30 km/h) and 155 mph (250 km/h).

Depending on the country, a single warning tone sounds at speeds of over approximately 50 mph (approximately 80 km/h), and from approximately 75 mph (approximately 120 km/h), a continuous warning tone sounds. The indicator light will also be displayed in the instrument cluster display. This warning is required by law and cannot be altered.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) not available

The yellow indicator light turns on.

  • The radar sensor is dirty. Clean the radar sensor.
  • The visibility of the radar sensor is limited due to weather conditions, such as snow, or from soap residue or coatings. Clean the radar sensor.
  • Radar sensor visibility is limited by attachments, decorative frames on license plate holders, or stickers. Clear the area around the radar sensor.
  • The radar sensor is misaligned or damaged, for example as a result of damage to the front of the vehicle. Check if there is noticeable damage.
  • Malfunction or fault. Stop the engine and restart.
  • Painting work was carried out on or structural modifications were made to the front of the vehicle.
  • The original Volkswagen emblem is not used. Volkswagen recommends the use of Volkswagen original parts or Volkswagen original accessories, which you can acquire from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
  • If the problem persists, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Lane Assist in control

Lane Assist system in operation (corrective steering intervention).

OR: Semi-automatic vehicle control in a medical emergency (Emergency Assist) is functioning.

Side Assist malfunction

Lane change system malfunctioning. The yellow indicator light turns on. In addition, the yellow central warning light comes on. Contact a suitably qualified professional.

Rear Traffic Alert brakes

Automatic braking intervention by Rear Traffic Alert.

Engine control malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on. Engine control is malfunctioning. Pay attention to any text shown in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit display. Have the engine checked immediately by suitably qualified professionals.

The driving performance has been limited to prevent the engine control components from overheating. A corresponding indicator may appear in the instrument cluster display. It is possible to continue driving with reduced driving performance. The driving performance limitation is removed in the following scenarios: The engine control components are no longer within a critical temperature range.

Exhaust system malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on: An exhaust-related component is malfunctioning, which could damage the vehicle. Contact a suitably qualified professional and have the engine and the exhaust system checked.

The indicator light flashes yellow: There is misfire which could damage the vehicle.

Particulate filter clogged with soot

The yellow indicator light turns on. The particulate filter is clogged with soot and a regeneration is necessary. Prerequisite for the regeneration drive: The engine is at operating temperature.

Drive at a speed of at least 50 mph (80 km/h). Take your foot completely off the accelerator pedal for a few seconds to let the vehicle roll with a gear engaged. Repeat this process of accelerating and letting the vehicle roll until the indicator light turns off. If the indicator light does not turn off after some time, immediately consult an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Engine RPM limited

The engine speed has been limited to reduce the risk of the engine overheating. The instrument cluster display shows the engine speed. The engine speed limitation is removed in the following scenarios: The engine is no longer within a critical temperature range. The driver’s foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.

together with Engine speed limitation due to engine control malfunction: The yellow indicator lights turn on. The engine speed limitation is triggered by an engine control malfunction. Make sure the displayed RPM is not exceeded. Have the engine checked immediately by suitably qualified professionals.

12 volt battery malfunction

The yellow indicator light turns on. A message is shown in the instrument cluster display. Messages about the battery charge level of the 12 V vehicle battery. Let the engine run so that the 12 V vehicle battery can be recharged. If the message about the battery charge level of the 12 V vehicle battery does not disappear after a few minutes despite the measures having been taken, the battery may need replacement or may not be getting charged properly due to a faulty alternator, get it checked by a professional.

Transmission malfunction / overheating

The yellow indicator light turns on. An audible warning may also sound. Where applicable, a message will appear in the instrument cluster display. The DSG® automated transmission can become heated, for example to frequent start-ups, allowing the vehicle to “creep” forward for long distances, or in stop-and-go traffic.

Press the brake pedal

The green indicator light turns on: The brake pedal was not pressed, for example when trying to shift to another gear using the selector lever. Press the brake pedal to select a gear.

The green indicator light blinks: Driving is restricted by the lock button. The lock button in the selector lever is not engaged. Check if the lock button is locked. Lock the lock button into place if necessary.

The green indicator light blinks, a message is also displayed: In rare cases, the Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) may not lock in vehicles with a DSG® automated transmission. The engine will then be disabled to prevent the vehicle from going into motion unintentionally. Press and release the brake pedal again.

Cruise control switched on, regulation active

If the CCS is switched on, the instrument cluster display indicates the stored speed and the status of the CCS: Green symbol displays if cruise control is switched on and regulating speed.

Lane Assist active

Lane Assist system active and ready to control.

Comfort drive Travel Assist active

Travel Assist active, Adaptive Cruise Control and adaptive lane guidance active.

ACC is regulating – no vehicle ahead detected

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) regulates, no vehicle driving ahead is detected.

ACC is regulating – vehicle ahead detected

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) regulates, vehicle driving ahead is detected.

Hill Descent Control is active

If the Hill Descent Control is active, the green indicator light comes on.

Hill Descent Control is not active

If the Hill Descent Control is not active, the grey indicator light turns on. The system is activated, but it is not regulating.

Outside temperature is below +39 °F (+4 °C)

When outside temperatures are colder than approximately +4°C (+39°F), a snowflake symbol also appears on the outside temperature display. This symbol remains on until the outside temperature rises above +43 °F (+6 °C).

Start/Stop system active

When indicator light comes on, the start-stop system is available and the automatic engine stop is active.

Start/Stop system not available

When indicator light comes on, the start-stop system is not available or the start-stop system has automatically started the engine.

Economical driving condition

If the vehicle is driving in a fuel-efficient manner, this symbol will be indicated in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit while driving.

Service due

When an oil change service or an inspection service is due, a chime will sound when switching on the ignition and you can then see a wrench symbol  for a few seconds in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit together with one of the following displays: Inspection now! Oil change now! Oil change service and inspection now!

Travel Assist active, lane guidance inactive

Travel Assist is active, Adaptive Cruise Control is active and adaptive lane guidance is inactive.

High beam control active

When Light Assist is switched on, the indicator light in the instrument cluster display will turn on. When high beam control (Light Assist) is active, the blue indicator light for the high beam headlight in the instrument cluster lights up.

Take over the steering

The white warning light will come on and a message will be shown in the instrument cluster display. Take hold of the steering wheel and take over steering of the vehicle.

Autonomous Emergency Braking starts

The indicator light lights up white or yellow depending on the country. Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) is temporarily not available or has limited availability. After driving straight for a short distance, Autonomous Emergency Braking is available again and the indicator light goes out. If the vehicle does not drive, the indicator light stays on.

Distance warning

Front Assist detects if there is a safety hazard from following the vehicle ahead too closely. The indicator light turns on. Increase the distance.

Offroad driving profile

With the Offroad driving mode, acceleration can be better controlled with the accelerator pedal when driving off-road. The engine’s braking efficiency is always available and shifting can be blocked in critical situations. The hill start assist and hill descent control are active in the Offroad driving mode. The dynamic cornering light is adjusted to better assist the driver when visibility is poor.

Eco driving mode

The vehicle switches to a fuel-efficient vehicle setup and supports the driver with fuel economy messages. The transmission automatically shifts to E in the Eco driving mode

Normal driving mode

This driving mode shows the basic settings of the vehicle system and offers a balanced calibration, for example for everyday use.

Individual driving mode

You can adapt individual vehicle systems according to your preferences.

Sport driving mode

This mode gives the driver a sporty feel. If the Sport driving mode is selected, vehicles with an automatic transmission switch to S.

Snow driving mode

Using the Snow driving mode can improve the traction on slippery or snowy ground by having a more precise transmission of power.

Offroad Custom driving profile

An Offroad driving mode that you can expand and adjust according to your preferences. The instrument cluster display tells you if an Offroad driving mode has been selected.

Mobile phone connected via Bluetooth

If a cell phone is connected via Bluetooth, the Bluetooth symbol will be displayed in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit.

Mobile phone battery charge level

The symbol also indicates the charge level of the mobile device.

Conclusion

Failure to respond to illuminated warning lights and messages may result in a vehicle breakdown, accidents and serious injuries. Never ignore illuminated warning lights and messages. Stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

Author: Nabeel K
Email: nabeel@wheelsjoint.com



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RA
RA
1 year ago

This list is missing the icon that shows yellow and has the car with lanes on each side with an !