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How Do I Know What the Spanner Symbol on My Car Dashboard Means?

DateDecember 23, 2025

1 Answer

MG
Marilyn George
December 23, 2025
Not liked92

The spanner symbol on a car dashboard indicates that the vehicle requires servicing. When this light illuminates, you should take your car to a main dealer or qualified service center for maintenance. Once the service is completed and the service light is reset, the indicator will turn off.

When the spanner symbol appears

  1. Routine maintenance due – The light may flash briefly after ignition, then remain on to indicate scheduled maintenance is required.
  2. Approaching the next service interval – Within a certain mileage, the spanner light may flash after ignition before staying illuminated continuously.
  3. Potential engine or system issues – The spanner light can also appear alongside coolant warnings, engine overheating alerts, or low coolant levels.

In summary, the spanner light may signal minor maintenance needs, but it could also indicate more serious issues. Drivers should always pay attention to this warning and monitor the vehicle’s condition closely.