Nissan Dashboard Warning Lights Guide for Drivers in Midland, ON

Blog Apr 24th, 2026

With over 20 different warning lights in a typical Nissan system, it can definitely feel overwhelming at first when one of them pops up on the dashboard. Some of these alerts are simple status messages, while others are tied directly into critical safety or engine management systems. But, don’t panic. The key is figuring out what it’s trying to tell you and how urgent it is. Read on with our team at Bourgeois Midland Nissan as we break down the most common Nissan dashboard warning lights, such as the ABS Warning Light, Airbag Warning Light, Brake Warning Light, Malfunction Indicator Warning Light, Oil Pressure Warning Light, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light, so you know what they mean and what you should do next.

6 Common Nissan Dashboard Warning Lights Explained in Midland, ON

1. Malfunction Indicator Warning Light

If the Malfunction Indicator Light, also known as the Check Engine Light, comes on and stays steady, don’t panic right away. One of the most common causes is a loose fuel filler cap. It’s worth checking that first, since it can trigger an emissions system alert. If the light is blinking, that is more serious. A flashing MIL usually means the engine is experiencing a misfire or another issue that could affect engine performance. In this case, continuing to drive normally can cause damage, so it’s best to get it diagnosed as soon as possible.

To help protect your vehicle, try to:

Avoid driving over about 72 km/h when possible.
Don’t accelerate or decelerate hard.
Avoid steep hills or heavy loads.
If you’re towing or carrying extra weight, reduce it if you can.

2. Tire Pressure Monitoring System Warning Light

The Tire Pressure Warning Light usually comes on when one or more of your tires is underinflated, or in some cases, when your Tire Pressure Monitoring System needs service. On select models, you may also be able to see the individual tire pressures to help narrow it down.

When it’s safe, check your tire pressures using a gauge and compare them to the recommended PSI listed on the Tire and Loading Information label, usually found on the driver’s door jamb. If the tires are low, inflate them to the proper pressure. It’s best to check when the tires are cool for the most accurate reading. Once corrected, don’t be surprised if the warning light doesn’t turn off right away. The system needs to relearn the updated pressures. After adjusting, you will need to drive the vehicle above about 25 km/h for the TPMS to reset. If you have inflated all four tires and the light still stays on, it could indicate a system issue and should be inspected at a local Nissan dealer like Bourgeois Midland Nissan.

3. Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) Warning Light

When you turn your Nissan on and switch the ignition to ON, the ABS warning light will usually light up for a few seconds and then turn off, which is normal. It just means the system is doing its startup self-test.

If that ABS light stays on while the engine is running or comes on while you’re driving, it means the system has detected a fault with the ABS. In most cases, your regular braking system will still work, but the anti-lock function will be disabled. When that happens, in a hard stop or low-traction situation, your wheels could lock up more easily, and you may lose some steering control while braking. It’s still safe to drive cautiously for a short period, but it’s better to get it checked soon.

4. Airbag Warning Light

Again, when you first turn your Nissan to the ON position, the airbag warning light will come on for a few seconds and then turn off. If the airbag warning light stays on after startup, starts flashing, or doesn’t come on at all, it could point to an issue with the airbag system, seat belt pretensioners, or even a sensor or wiring fault. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, the safest move is to schedule an inspection as soon as possible at your local Nissan dealer, such as Bourgeois Midland Nissan.

5. Brake Warning Light

Brake system warning light indicates a possible issue with the braking system or the parking brake. One common cause is low brake fluid. Safely pull over when you can and check the brake fluid level. If it’s low, topping it up with the recommended fluid may help. If the level looks fine, it’s still best to have the system inspected by a technician at Bourgeois Midland Nissan.

Please note, a brake system issue can reduce braking effectiveness and may be dangerous if not addressed. Only continue driving if it’s safe to do so. Do not drive the vehicle if the brake fluid is extremely low or leaking, or if the brake pedal does not stop the vehicle properly. In those cases, the vehicle should be towed for service.

6. Oil Pressure Warning Light

A pop-up of the engine oil pressure warning light means your engine is not getting the proper oil pressure. It’s safest to stop the vehicle as soon as it’s safe to do so and turn the engine off. Once stopped, check the engine oil level and top it up with the recommended oil if it’s low.

However, it’s important to know that low oil pressure doesn’t always mean a low oil level. If the oil level looks fine, the issue could also be related to the oil pump, pressure sensor, or another engine component. In any case, do not ignore it. Call Bourgeois Midland Nissan at 705-540-8010 and we will guide you on what to do next.

Get Your Dashboard Warning Light Diagnosed at Bourgeois Midland Nissan

Now that you are a bit more familiar with what those warning lights mean, it probably makes sense not to wait around if one pops up. At Bourgeois Midland Nissan, we are an authorized Nissan dealer here in Midland, ON, and we are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools along with decades of expertise to pinpoint what is triggering the light. Even better, we will break it all down in plain language and walk you through the best way to fix it based on what your vehicle needs. Why wait? Fill out our online form or call us at 705-540-8010 to get your dashboard warning light diagnosed, today.