Isuzu D-Max Dashboard Warning Lights
The Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck has been manufactured since 2002 and is now of its second generation. The first generation (Mk 1) was manufactured up until 2012, with the second generation (Mk 2) still in current production.
The Isuzu D-Max dashboard warning lights detailed below apply to both generations, including all model versions. Dashboard layout and warning light dashboard location may vary from model.
| Symbol | Fault Description and Action |
|---|---|
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max airbag / SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warning light should flash 7 times when the ignition is set to 'on'. There is a fault with the airbag SRS if: • The warning light does not flash 7 times. • The SRS airbag warning light does not go out. • The SRS airbag warning light comes on when driving. If any of these circumstances occur, the airbag and seat belt pretensioners may not function in the event of an accident. Have system serviced by an Isuzu workshop. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The red exclamation mart in a circle is the Isuzu D-Max parking brake / brake system warning light. This light will: • Come on when the parking brake lever has been pulled up. If the light is on, ensure the parking brake lever is not partially engaged. • The brake warning light comes on briefly with ignition 'on'. If the light stays on or comes on when driving, it is because of a drop in the level of brake fluid due to brake pad wear or fluid leak. Stop in a safe place and check brake fluid level and check for leaks. If no leaks are found, top up with fluid recommended by Isuzu. Note If the brake warning light comes on along with the ABS warning light  it suggests a malfunction in the EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution). This means braking ability will become unpredictable and unstable. There is an increased risk of rear locking brakes when braking hard. It's advised not to continue driving and contact an Isuzu workshop for assistance. |
| Warning Light Explained: Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is responsible for preventing brake lockup when under heavy load. This allows the driver to steer, which is not possible when wheels are locked. The Isuzu D-Max ABS warning light comes on briefly with ignition 'on' for approximately 3 seconds. If the ABS light stays on or comes on when driving: • Safely pull over and stop the engine. • Restart the engine, move the vehicle slowly forward and gradually increase speed to around 9 mph (15 km/h). If the warning light goes out, ABS is working correctly. Note If ABS has malfunctioned, normal brakes will continue to work as ABS has no influence on these. There is however a risk of locking wheels under heavy braking. Have system checked as soon as possible. |
 | Warning Light Explained: ESC (electronic stability control) is computerised technology that utilises various safety system to improve vehicle stability. The Isuzu D-Max ESC warning light comes on for approximately 3 seconds when ignition is set to 'on'. There is a fault with the ESC system if: • The warning light fails to come on with ignition. • The warning light comes on when driving. This can occur if the battery cables have been disconnected or if the battery voltage is low. ESC failure does not affect normal driving, but certain safety features will be disabled. Note If the yellow ESC warning light flashes, this is an indication that the system is operating and attempting to stabilise the vehicle. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The red oil can is the Isuzu D-Max low engine oil pressure light. The warning light comes on as normal operation when ignition is set to 'on' and goes out when the engine starts. If the warning light stays on or comes on when driving, the engine oil pressure, which lubricates engine components is abnormal. • If driving, pull over as soon as safely possible and switch off engine. • Check engine oil level and add oil if necessary. • After adding oil, check if oil warning light has gone out. • If the oil light remains on, or oil levels are normal when checking, this indicates low oil pressure. The lubrication system is faulty - do not continue driving. Contact Isuzu for assistance. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max engine temperature warning light comes on in red when the engine overheats. When the engine overheats, the engine coolant temperature gauge will indicate 'H' zone and flash and a buzzer will sound. Immediately pull off the road and allow the engine to continue running at idle. Continual driving may cause the engine to seize up. Immediately shutting off the engine may also cause the engine to seize. • Leave engine running at idle until warning light goes out. • Check engine coolant levels and add fluid if necessary. • If no fluid is required, be cautious as there may be a cooling system failure. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max battery warning light comes on when the ignition is switched to 'on' and goes out when the engine has started. A charging system fault is detected if the battery light remains on or comes on when driving. This is often due to: • Broken or loose fan belt. • Loose / corroded connections / terminals. • Faulty generator / alternator. • Faulty battery. The engine may cease operation shortly. To conserve battery power, immediately turn off any non-essential vehicle systems. Contact an Isuzu workshop. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max MIL, or check engine light comes on when the ignition is switch to 'on' and should go out when the engine starts. If the warning light come son when the engine is running, it alerts you to problem with the engine electronic control system or the diesel particulate defuser (DPD). • If the check engine warning light is on and the engine stops, it's possible that the engine has entered protection mode. This reduced power mode, or 'limp mode' is a engine software protection system. Ensure the power switch is in 'off' or the starter switch is set to 'lock' and wait at least 10 seconds before restarting. If the engine starts, have it checked as soon as possible. • Avoid driving at high speeds and/or high engine loads. • Have the vehicle checked even if the light comes on intermittently. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The car with a spanner / wrench is not a engine oil service light. The Isuzu D-Max service vehicle soon (SVS) warning light indicates a fault. This is a generic warning light that has no specific fault associated with it. Specialised Isuzu diagnostic equipment is required to read the fault codes associated with this malfunction. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max water separator warning light comes on with the ignition set to 'on' and goes out after approximately 3 seconds. If the water separator light comes on, the water in the water separator needs draining. • If the water separator warning light comes on while driving, immediately drain water from the fuel filter. If you continue driving with the warning light on, the fuel injection system may fail.  1. The fuel filter is located at the rear left side of the engine compartment. Connect one end of a hose to the drain plug at the bottom of the fuel filter and place the other end of the hose into a suitable container.  2. Loosen the drain plug and move the priming pump up and down by hand between 10 to 20 times. 3. Tighten the drain plug and move the priming pump several times. 4. Test the engine, check for leaks and check the warning light goes out. 5. Dispose of oil responsibly. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max fuel filter warning light comes on with ignition 'on' and should go out after about 3 seconds. The fuel filter stays on or comes on when driving means that it is clogged and requires cleaning / replacing. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The cog and exclamation mark is the Isuzu D-Max check trans warning light. The warning light comes on with ignition for around 3 seconds and should go out. If it stays on, it's an indication of a fault with the automatic transmission. If the light flashes, it means there's a fault with the transmission electronic control system. The vehicle may enter emergency mode where engine power is reduced and certain gears may not function. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max diesel particulate defuser (DPD) warning light comes on with ignition set to 'on' and goes out when the engine has started. The DPD warning light and depending on your version of D-Max, the message 'CHECKING PM LEVEL' (particulate matter) is displayed. In this situation, the diesel particulate filter requires cleaning by the operator. Note If DPD cleaning is not performed when the light slowly flashes, the light will begin to flash more quickly. If it still is not cleaned, the DPD may fail. Cleaning the DPD To clean the diesel particulate filter: • Drive at a constant speed of more than 45 mph (70 km/h). • When certain conditions are met, the DPD light will stop flashing and illuminate constant. This is when the cleaning process takes place. • Avoid stopping or slowing down as this may interfere with the cleaning process. When the cleaning process has finished, the light will go out. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max automatic transmission fluid temperature warning light comes on for around 3 seconds with the ignition set to 'on' and should then go out. If the warning light comes on when driving, it means the automatic transmission fluid is abnormally hot. Immediately pull over, place the gear selector into 'P' position and keep the engine running at idle. Do not resume driving until the light goes out. If the warning light remains on, have the automatic transmission lubrication system inspected. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The Isuzu D-Max check 4WD warning light comes on for around 3 seconds with the ignition set to 'on'. If this warning light stays on or comes on when driving, the 4WD system has a malfunction. Have system checked as soon as possible. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The snowflake light is the Isuzu D-Max road ice warning light. When this light illuminates on the dashboard, the outside temperature is low and the road surface may be frozen. This is gauged by the outside air temperature. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The key and exclamation mark symbol is the Isuzu D-Max passive entry and start system warning light. This light indicates abnormalities in the passive entry and start system, power management system or steering wheel lock system. If the warning message: No Electronic Key illuminates with the symbol, it means: • Locking of an unlocked door is attempted with the electronic key not within operating range. • The electronic key has been carried outside the vehicle and then the doors are closed with the power mode in 'ACC' or 'ON'. • The power mode is 'OFF' and the engine start/stop button is pressed with the electronic key not within operating range. |
 | Warning Light Explained: The low battery electronic key warning light illuminates when the battery inside the key fob is running low or is dead. See Isuzu D-Max key battery replacement for a guide on how to change the battery and battery type needed. The passive entry and start system may not function. In this instance, use the mechanical key for locking and unlocking the doors and use the electronic key for starting the engine. You can do this by placing the electronic key close to the engine start/stop button. |
Thank you for the very useful information. I have been helped a great deal!
I am having warning MIL
Hi
How do I get rid of electronic key warning light off?plus my drivers side window only goes down and not the rest.
I’ve only just bought it.2019 dmax,auto,LS-T.only done 1200 kms.
Help…
Regards
Ian
Hi Ian,
Surely you must have some warranty on it or did you buy it privately?
Hi,
How do I fix no electronic key error Isuzu MU-X 2017 model
Regards,
Jhing
You saved my car from being destroyed by understanding a warning light when I was in town on my own at night. Thank you.
Glad to have helped Jane
2007 Isuzu like the pickup but the green/blue 4×4 WARNING LIGHT COMES ON the dashboard what does the system comprise of for that year, is it a new flywheel or something on that system not sure of the layout or is it a sensor the owner had the car from new and always engaged the h 4×4 at speed giving him more traction i guess.
the selection buttons also does not work or the normal light ,thanks for any advice im in barbados so no way of testing it
I just had DPD warning. Thank you for the information, it has helped.
I’m seeing a faint white light under my rev needle can anyone tell me what this means thanks
I took delivery of my new 2021 Dmax 11th of May. Airbag warning light came on the very next day with 35 kilometres on the clock. Cause was believed to be a faulty sensor in the passenger seat. Replaced yesterday (3 June!!). Only driven 20kms since then….problem seems to have been fixed.
Can anyone tell me why my Izuzu Dmax 2016 has flashing lights and indicators on dash are also flashing. Tells me to turn lights off but have done that and as soon as starting motor it all begins again. I have tried to google but no answer.
Having problems with headlights not switching off and also temperature control/aircon not working properly?
The question referring to headlights not switching off and temperature control/aircon is on my 2013 Isuzu D Max utah
Thanks a lot!
I had a warning light and alarm come on yesterday but can’t find any details of it or the symbol at all
I have a brown light come on for the air conditioner Is this right or should it be green
Hi Can anyone explain to me why on my ISUZU MUX 2019, while pushing the throttle the vehicle kicked down to a lower gear the “Electronic Stability Control” and “Check engine” warning signs lights up and the vehicle refused to shift to the 5th gear. Turning off the engine for a minute will solve the problem temporarily. Thanks !
Turbo overboost, so needs turbo to be fixed. Common problem for this engine. Manual does also, and it reduces speed to max 100 uphill & 120 on flat road
I have a 2017 lsm dmax an the check pm keeps coming on with the engine light anyone had this issue
2019 Diesel dmax engine light went on while travelling 60km. What does it mean.
Hello Con,
If you have no other warning lights or messages other than the engine light, it’s almost impossible to say. The light relates to the engine control system and emissions control system. Could be an issue with the diesel particulate filter. If the light goes off after a restart, don’t worry about it. Ultimately, if the engine light stays on, due to there being so many components that can trigger the engine light, you’ll need diagnostics. When the engine light comes on, a fault code is usually generated and stored. Diagnostic code readers are hooked up and will read the fault codes, hopefully pointing you in the direction of the problem. You can have diagnostics at most auto repair workshops.
I have the handbrake light on and won’t go off.
I checked the break fluid and it was low. So I have now topped it up. Do I need to reset the light now or something?
Hi Colleen,
When you say the handbrake warning light, is it the red symbol containing an exclamation mark? If it’s that symbol and the handbrake is properly released, then it can be a symptom of low brake fluid. As you say you’ve checked this, it may be a fault with the brake system. It’s possibly the brake switch too. Being as it’s a potential problem with the vehicle’s braking system, I would take it for diagnostics. Sometimes if you jiggle the handbrake around, you may see the light come on and off, this is an indication that the handbrake switch is worn. But as I say, being as it’s to do with the braking system, I should have diagnostics just in case it’s something serious.
I have this same issue only after flood crossing. few hours after it comes off, if I turn on the head lights all the lights on the dash comes on, and I mean all the lights, the speed omiter and tac goes to zero if I turn on the lights, the speed omiter and tac goes back to normal if I turn off the lights. this only happens if I pass through flood waters. and the brake light is on. the first time it happened the next day it was still happening and the following day it went away.
Hi just purchased a dmax ute 22 and the warning headlight level sensor I’d always on ??
my 2008 dmax lost main key used spare key insert key started , used vehicle, next day used same key all lights on dash come on and a clicking sound emitted. will not turn engine over thanks
Hi Alexander,
Sounds like an electrical issue. With anything electrical, always start with the battery. Might need replacing if it’s old. Have it tested / charged. May also be a problem with the starter motor. Sometimes giving it a clunk can actually get them going, but might need replacing. Check also alternator, ensure it’s providing enough power to charge the battery and belts are tight and operating as they should. Also check battery terminals are tight and free of corrosion.
Hi, help me when I put reverse the camera shows but very dark can’t show anything
Hi Sicelo,
Have you cleaned the reverse camera lens?
I have a 22 MUX the battery warning light and alarm comes on periodically while towing my camper.
Hi Terry,
Have you had the alternator and battery tested?
My 2012 Isuzu NRR has a transmission light flashing. What’s the most common problems should I check to fix this?
Hi,
Is it the transmission light flashing all the time or when driving for a period of time? May indicate overheating if it comes on later. The first thing to look into is the transmission fluid. It could be low and need topping up or replacing. Check for any signs of leaks. Ultimately, the best thing to do is get yourself an OBD2 diagnostic tool scanner. Use this to scan for fault codes and if found, will hopefully provide you with more specific details on the problem.
Isuzu MUX….what is the meaning of a green fuel light with graphs going up and down lighting on the dashboard?
There is also a sign of foot on pedal in blue light all on the dashboard.
What is the meaning?
i have a light on the dash its a picture of the ute with a box on the back
Hy sir what could course the engine to cut it self off when the Dmax diesel engine idling?
Can the DPD sensor be changed out I believe its faulty