The Bobcat S590 skid-steer loader features a comprehensive instrument cluster designed for off-road and construction environments. The panel includes indicators for engine, hydraulic, and electrical systems to ensure safe and efficient operation. Familiarizing yourself with these lights helps prevent downtime and costly repairs.
Bobcat S590 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Engine | AMBER | Indicates an engine fault detected by the ECU, common on the S590 if the DPF is clogged or sensor fails. | Have the engine diagnosed with a diagnostic tool; do not operate if flashing. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Low oil pressure warning for the Bobcat S590's Kubota diesel engine, often due to low oil level or pump failure. | Immediately shut off engine and check oil level; do not restart until resolved. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | Indicates the alternator is not charging the battery properly on the S590, often due to a loose belt or failed alternator. | Check alternator belt tension and battery connections; replace alternator if needed. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant is overheating, possible on the S590 when the radiator is blocked by debris or the fan belt slips. | Stop engine immediately and clean radiator fins; check coolant level and fan belt. | |
| Hydraulic Oil | RED | Low hydraulic oil level or high temperature in the S590's hydraulic system, causing loss of lift or drive power. | Park safely and check hydraulic fluid level and temperature; allow system to cool. | |
| Parking Brake | RED | Indicates the parking brake is engaged on the S590; will not allow machine to drive until released. | Release the parking brake lever fully before attempting to move. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | The operator seat belt is not fastened on the S590; the machine may have a lockout feature preventing movement. | Fasten the seat belt securely; machine will not operate without it. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | Glow plugs are active for cold-start preheating on the S590's diesel engine; wait for light to turn off. | Turn key to preheat position and wait until indicator goes out before cranking. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | High beam headlights are active on the S590 for improved visibility in dark jobsites. | Dim when approaching other equipment or vehicles. | |
| Work Lights | GREEN | Rear or auxiliary work lights are turned on the S590 for better visibility around the machine. | Ensure lights are off when not needed to save battery. | |
| DPF / Regeneration | AMBER | The diesel particulate filter requires regeneration on the S590; machine will continue to operate but may enter limp mode. | Perform parked regeneration as per operator manual; do not shut off mid-cycle. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Fuel level is low; the S590's tank holds about 20 gallons but gauge reads near empty. | Refuel at the next opportunity to avoid running out and air in the system. | |
| Hydraulic System | AMBER | General hydraulic system warning on the S590, indicating low pressure or a dirty filter. | Check hydraulic fluid level and filter; inspect for leaks. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | AMBER | Scheduled maintenance interval is approaching or overdue on the S590 based on engine hours. | Perform required service such as oil change or filter replacement. | |
| Brake System | RED | Brake system fault on the S590; could be low brake fluid or worn brake pads. | Check brake fluid reservoir and brake condition; do not operate if pedal feels soft. |
15 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Overheating
Common causes
- Clogged radiator with debris
- Low coolant level or leak
- Faulty cooling fan or belt
What to do
Stop the S590 immediately and let it cool. Clean the radiator fins with compressed air, top off coolant with 50/50 mix, and inspect fan belt tension.
Hydraulic System Failure
Common causes
- Low hydraulic oil level due to leaks
- Contaminated or old hydraulic fluid
- Blocked hydraulic filter
What to do
Park the S590 on level ground and check the hydraulic sight glass. Add Bobcat Hydraulic Fluid HD and replace the hydraulic filter if needed.
Engine Won't Start (Cold Weather)
Common causes
- Glow plugs not heating correctly
- Weak battery or corroded terminals
- Fuel gelling in cold temperatures
What to do
Use the preheat cycle fully until the glow plug light goes out. Check battery voltage and connections; add winter fuel additive for gelling issues.
DPF Clogging / Reduced Power
Common causes
- Extended idling or low-load operation
- Faulty DPF differential pressure sensor
- Missed regeneration cycles
What to do
Perform a parked regeneration by engaging the regen switch while idling at high RPM. If unsuccessful, contact a Bobcat dealer for forced regen or cleaning.
Electrical/Starting Issues
Common causes
- Discharged battery from lights left on
- Loose or corroded battery connections
- Failed alternator not charging
What to do
Jump-start the S590 using a 12V source. Clean battery terminals and tighten cables. Test alternator output; replace if below 13.5V.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the red oil can light mean on my Bobcat S590?
It means engine oil pressure is too low. Stop the engine immediately, check the oil level with the dipstick (top-off with 15W-40), and inspect for leaks. Running with this light on can seize the engine.
Can I operate the S590 with the amber check engine light on?
Yes, but with caution. It indicates a non-critical fault such as a sensor issue. However, if the light flashes, stop the engine; it indicates a severe misfire or DPF problem. Have it diagnosed promptly.
Why does my S590's hydraulic light come on intermittently?
Intermittent hydraulic light often means low fluid level sloshing in the reservoir, especially when working on slopes. Check the sight glass with the bucket lowered and fill with Bobcat Hydraulic Fluid HD if low.
How do I perform a parked regeneration on the Bobcat S590?
Park the machine on level ground, ensure no flammable materials nearby, and set the parking brake. Press and hold the regeneration switch (located near the joystick) for 2 seconds. The engine will rev up to burn soot; the process takes about 20 minutes. Do not turn off the engine during regen.
What should I do if the glow plug light stays on for too long?
If the light stays on more than 10 seconds, one or more glow plugs may be faulty. The S590 uses 12-volt plugs; check resistance with a multimeter. Replace defective plugs and check the relay. Avoid excessive cranking without proper preheat.
How do I reset the service hour meter light on the S590?
The service light is a maintenance reminder and automatically resets after a certified Bobcat dealer performs the service. If you do it yourself, you may need a diagnostic tool to reset it. Refer to the operator's manual for the specific procedure (usually a combination of key cycle and button presses).