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EU vs. US-Spec Warning Lights: What You Need to Know When Importing a Car to the United States
When importing a car into the United States, one detail often overlooked is the difference in warning light symbols on the gauge faces. This seemingly minor issue can become a hurdle during the import process, as U.S. regulations are very specific about how certain warning indicators should appear.
Key Differences Between EU and US-Spec Warning Lights
In most European-spec cars, warning lights for features like ABS, the parking brake, and general brake issues are typically displayed as icons. For example:
- The ABS warning light is often represented by a circular icon with “ABS” inside.
- The parking brake light is shown as a “P” within a circle.
- The brake system warning light is displayed as a generic symbol.
However, U.S. federal regulations mandate that these warnings must be written in words rather than icons. Specifically:
- The brake warning light must explicitly say “BRAKE.”
- The parking indicator must say “PARK.”
- The ABS warning light must also include “ABS” as text if not already clear.
Why Does This Matter?
Because of these requirements, a gauge cluster that only has symbols (without the proper wording) might fail inspection during the importation process. For vehicle owners hoping to register and drive in the US, ensuring compliance with these rules is not just a matter of aesthetics – it’s a legal necessity.
Custom Solutions for Your Imported Vehicle
If you’re importing a car into the U.S. and need compliant gauge faces, we’re here to help. Our process is straightforward:
- Send us the details of your vehicle, including the current gauge face design.
- Let us know the specific changes you need.
- We’ll produce custom gauge faces that meet U.S. standards while preserving the style and functionality of your dashboard.
Whether you’re an enthusiast bringing home a European model or simply relocating a family vehicle across the Atlantic, make sure your dashboard complies with local regulations. While EU standards allow for icons on the instrument panel, the US typically requires text-based indicators for critical functions. We are here to bridge that gap with high-quality, custom gauge faces that ensure your vehicle is fully compliant—and looking great—in its new home.
Contact us today to discuss your specific vehicle make and model. Let us help you navigate the import process with confidence, providing the perfect solution for your gauge faces so you can hit the road safely and legally in the United States.