The Bobcat S650 skid steer loader is equipped with a comprehensive instrument cluster that monitors critical systems and provides alerts for safe operation. Understanding these indicators is essential for maintaining performance and preventing damage.
Bobcat S650 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | A critical fault has been detected in a major system such as engine, hydraulics, or drivetrain, requiring immediate shutdown on the Bobcat S650. | Stop the engine safely and contact a Bobcat dealer for diagnosis. | |
| Master Caution | AMBER | Non-critical system issue or maintenance need detected on the Bobcat S650; check the display for details. | Review the message center and schedule service soon. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | Engine management system has detected a fault that could affect emissions or performance on the Bobcat S650. | Reduce load and have engine codes read at a Bobcat dealer. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Engine oil pressure is below safe operating level, risking engine damage in the Bobcat S650. | Stop the engine immediately, check oil level, and look for leaks. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | The charging system is not maintaining battery voltage, often due to alternator or belt failure on the Bobcat S650. | Turn off non-essential loads and have the charging system inspected. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant temperature has exceeded the safe limit, which can occur when the radiator is clogged or coolant level is low on the Bobcat S650. | Stop the engine, let it cool, and check coolant level and radiator fins. | |
| Hydraulic System | AMBER | Hydraulic oil temperature is high or the filter is bypassing, reducing performance on the Bobcat S650. | Reduce heavy operation and check hydraulic oil level and cooler cleanliness. | |
| Parking Brake | AMBER | Parking brake is engaged or has a fault; the Bobcat S650 may not move or operate properly. | Release the parking brake fully or service if it remains on. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | Operator seat belt is not fastened, which disables lift/tilt functions on Bobcat S650 for safety. | Fasten the seat belt before operating. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | Engine preheat is active; wait for the light to turn off before cranking the Bobcat S650 in cold conditions. | Do not start until the light goes out to avoid hard starting. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | High beams are activated for improved visibility in dark environments on the Bobcat S650. | Dim when other equipment is near to avoid glare. | |
| Work Lights | GREEN | Work lights are turned on to illuminate the work area around the Bobcat S650. | Turn off when not needed to conserve battery. | |
| Beacon / Rotating Light | GREEN | The warning beacon is active, indicating the Bobcat S650 is in operation and should be approached with caution. | Ensure beacon is working for safety on job sites. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Fuel level is low; the Bobcat S650 should be refueled soon to avoid running out during operation. | Refill diesel fuel to prevent air in the system. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | AMBER | Scheduled maintenance is due based on engine hours for the Bobcat S650, such as oil and filter changes. | Perform required service per the operator's manual. | |
| Air Filter | AMBER | Engine air filter is restricted, reducing power and fuel economy on the Bobcat S650. | Inspect and replace the air filter element. | |
| Fuel Filter / Water Separator | AMBER | Water has been detected in the fuel or the filter is restricted on the Bobcat S650, risking injector damage. | Drain water separator and replace fuel filter if needed. |
17 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Overheating
Common causes
- Coolant low or leak
- Radiator fins clogged with debris
- Engine fan belt broken
What to do
Stop the Bobcat S650 immediately, let it cool, then clean radiator fins and top off coolant; if recurring, check water pump and thermostat.
Hydraulic Overheat
Common causes
- Continuous heavy load operation
- Hydraulic oil level low
- Oil cooler blocked
What to do
Reduce duty cycle, check hydraulic oil level and add if needed, clean oil cooler fins to restore normal temperature on the Bobcat S650.
Engine Oil Pressure Loss
Common causes
- Low oil level
- Oil filter clogged
- Oil pump failure
What to do
Immediately shut down the Bobcat S650, check oil level and add if low; if level is fine, have the oil pump and pressure sensor inspected.
Charging System Failure
Common causes
- Alternator belt loose or broken
- Alternator internal fault
- Battery cable corrosion
What to do
Tighten or replace the alternator belt, clean battery terminals, and test alternator output; if light stays on, replace alternator on the Bobcat S650.
Hydraulic Oil Filter Bypass
Common causes
- Filter clogged with contaminants
- Cold hydraulic oil (high viscosity)
- Internal pump wear
What to do
Replace the hydraulic oil filter and change oil if contaminated; in cold weather, allow the Bobcat S650 to warm up before heavy use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Master Warning light come on and the engine shuts down on my Bobcat S650?
The Master Warning indicates a critical fault; the engine may shut down automatically to prevent damage. Common causes include low oil pressure, high coolant temperature, or hydraulic system failure. Check the display for specific codes and contact a Bobcat dealer.
What should I do if the Check Engine light stays on after starting the Bobcat S650?
A steady Check Engine light means a fault has been stored in the engine ECU. You can continue operating but reduce load and have the codes read by a Bobcat technician soon to avoid emission or performance issues.
The Hydraulic System light is amber but the machine seems to work fine. Is it okay?
An amber Hydraulic System light usually indicates high oil temperature or a partially restricted filter. While minor, it can lead to reduced performance. Check hydraulic oil level and clean the cooler. If persistent, schedule service.
How do I reset the service hour meter light on the Bobcat S650?
The service light cannot be reset manually; it requires a dealer tool to clear after completing the scheduled maintenance. Follow the maintenance interval in the operator's manual.
Why does the fasten seat belt light flash even when I'm buckled in?
The seat belt switch may be stuck or faulty. The light flashing means the system does not detect the belt latched. Try unbuckling and rebuckling; if it persists, have the switch checked to restore all loader functions.
What does the Glow Plug light signify when it stays on longer than usual?
If the Glow Plug light stays on for more than a few seconds or fails to turn off, it could indicate a faulty glow plug or relay. In cold weather it stays on longer, but if it never goes out, the engine may be hard to start; have the system tested.