The Bobcat S70 skid steer loader uses a simple dashboard with color-coded warning lights to alert the operator to critical issues, maintenance needs, or system statuses. Red lights demand immediate shutdown, amber advises caution but allows continued operation, and green/blue indicate active functions or normal operation.
Bobcat S70 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | This red light on the Bobcat S70 indicates a critical fault that requires immediate engine shutdown, such as low oil pressure or high coolant temperature. | Stop the engine safely and consult the operator's manual or a Bobcat dealer. | |
| Master Caution | AMBER | This amber light alerts you to a non-critical system issue in your S70, similar to a check engine warning but not requiring immediate shutdown. | Check the dashboard display for additional codes and continue operation carefully before servicing. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | Glowing amber, this light indicates the S70's engine control module has detected a fault in emissions, fuel, or ignition systems. | Have the engine diagnosed by a Bobcat technician to prevent performance loss. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | When lit red, the S70's engine oil pressure is dangerously low, risking severe engine damage if operation continues. | Immediately stop the engine, check oil level, and top off or contact a dealer. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | This red light on the S70 dashboard means the charging system is failing, likely due to a faulty alternator or battery connection. | Stop the engine and inspect battery terminals and alternator belt; if no fix, call for service. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Illuminated red, the S70's engine coolant is overheated, which can cause immediate engine failure if ignored. | Shut down the engine and let it cool; check coolant level and radiator for blockages. | |
| Hydraulic Oil | AMBER | An amber light warns that the S70's hydraulic oil temperature is too high or the filter is clogged, reducing lift capacity. | Reduce load and run at low RPM; if persistent, check hydraulic oil level and clean the filter. | |
| Parking Brake | RED | When red, the S70's parking brake is engaged or a fault exists in the brake system preventing release. | Check that the parking brake lever is fully released; if light remains, inspect brake linkage. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | This red indicator reminds the S70 operator that the seat belt is not fastened, a safety requirement before operation. | Fasten the seat belt before moving the machine. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | This amber light on the S70 illuminates during cold starts to indicate the glow plugs are warming the intake air for easier ignition. | Wait for the light to turn off before cranking the engine. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | When amber, the S70's fuel level is low, which can cause air ingestion and hard starting if run dry. | Refuel as soon as possible to avoid stalling. | |
| Water in Fuel | AMBER | This amber light warns that water has accumulated in the S70's fuel filter/water separator, risking injector damage. | Drain the water separator bowl following the operator's manual procedure. | |
| Air Filter | AMBER | An amber light indicates the S70's engine air filter is restricted, reducing power and fuel efficiency. | Replace or clean the air filter element per the maintenance schedule. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | GREEN | This green light or indicator on the S70 shows the elapsed operating hours, reminding when routine maintenance is due. | Refer to the owner's manual for service intervals based on hours displayed. | |
| Work Lights | BLUE | A blue light on the S70 dashboard indicates the auxiliary work lights are turned on for better visibility. | No action needed; turn off when not required to save battery. |
15 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Overheat
Common causes
- Low coolant level
- Clogged radiator fins
- Faulty cooling fan
What to do
Stop the S70 immediately, let it cool, then check coolant reservoir and clean radiator debris. If persistent, replace the fan belt or thermostat.
Low Engine Oil Pressure
Common causes
- Insufficient oil level
- Worn oil pump
- Oil filter clogged
What to do
Shut off the engine, check oil dipstick, and add oil if low. If pressure remains low, have a technician inspect the oil pump and filter on your S70.
Hydraulic System Failure
Common causes
- Low hydraulic oil
- Contaminated oil
- Hydraulic pump failure
What to do
Check hydraulic fluid level and look for leaks. If level is good but light stays on, replace the hydraulic filter and avoid heavy use until serviced.
Charging System Failure
Common causes
- Loose or corroded battery cables
- Faulty alternator
- Broken alternator belt
What to do
Inspect battery connections and alternator belt tension on your S70. Tighten or replace as needed; if still no charge, replace the alternator.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the red brake light mean on my Bobcat S70?
The red brake light indicates the parking brake is engaged or there is a fault in the brake system. Make sure the parking brake lever is fully disengaged; if the light persists, inspect the brake linkage or switch.
Why is the amber Master Caution light on after a cold start?
On the S70, the Master Caution may illuminate briefly during a cold start while the glow plugs are active. If it stays on, it means a non-critical fault is logged, so check the display for additional codes or see your dealer.
Can I keep using my S70 with the Check Engine light on?
While the amber Check Engine light does not require immediate shutdown, continued use may reduce performance or fuel economy. It's best to have the fault diagnosed soon to avoid potential limp mode.
What should I do if the Hydraulic Oil light comes on?
Reduce the load and run the engine at low RPM. Check the hydraulic oil level and look for leaks. If the light goes off, resume normal operation; if it stays on, the filter may be clogged and needs replacement.
How often should I replace the fuel filter on my S70?
Bobcat recommends replacing the fuel filter/water separator every 500 hours or annually. If the water-in-fuel light illuminates, drain the separator immediately even if not due for replacement.
What does the blue Work Lights indicator mean?
The blue light simply confirms that your auxiliary work lights are switched on. It is a normal status indicator and requires no action except to turn them off when not needed to preserve battery life.