The Bobcat skid steer's instrument cluster provides critical warnings tailored to its compact loader design. Understanding these lights helps prevent damage to the hydraulic system, engine, and drive components. This guide covers genuine indicators found on Bobcat models like the S70, S150, and T770.
Bobcat skid steer Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | This red stop sign appears for a serious fault, such as low engine oil pressure or hydraulic system failure, specific to Bobcat skid steers with dual-pump hydrostatic drive. | Stop the engine immediately and check the diagnostic code on the panel. Consult the Bobcat service manual for the specific fault code. | |
| Master Caution | AMBER | An amber caution light alerts you to a non-critical issue, like a plugged air filter or low hydraulic oil level, that affects Bobcat loader performance. | Continue operation but view the active codes and address the issue soon. Common fixes include cleaning the air filter or topping up hydraulic oil. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | This light indicates an engine management fault, such as a sensor issue or emission control problem, common on Bobcat’s Kubota or Doosan diesel engines. | Have the engine scanned with a diagnostic tool. For Bobcat models with DPF, it may require a parked regeneration. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Low oil pressure warning for the Bobcat’s diesel engine; often triggered by low oil level, a faulty pump, or a blocked oil pickup screen. | Shut down the engine immediately. Check oil level with the dipstick. If full, do not restart; call for service. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | The battery warning light signifies that the alternator is not charging the battery, which can leave you stranded in a Bobcat skid steer on a job site. | Check the alternator belt tension and battery connections. If belt is loose or missing, replace it. Otherwise, seek electrical diagnosis. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | Engine coolant overheat warning specific to Bobcat loaders, often caused by debris-clogged radiator fins or a failed cooling fan belt. | Stop the engine and let it cool. Clean the radiator and oil cooler fins with compressed air. Check coolant level when cool. | |
| Hydraulic System | RED | This red indicator for Bobcat’s hydraulic system warns of high temperature or low pressure in the main hydraulic circuit, which powers lift and tilt functions. | Immediately stop operation. Check hydraulic oil level in the reservoir and look for leaks. Allow the system to cool before restarting. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | Illuminates when the fuel level drops below about 10% of the Bobcat’s tank capacity, giving you time to refuel before the engine starves. | Refuel with clean diesel. To avoid air in the fuel system, do not run the tank completely dry. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | This light glows amber when the glow plugs are heating the combustion chambers for cold starts on Bobcat diesel engines; it turns off when preheat is complete. | Wait for the light to go out before cranking the engine. If it flashes, there is a glow plug fault. | |
| Seat Belt | RED | A red reminder that the operator's seat belt is not fastened; Bobcat skid steers require the belt to be clicked for the safety interlock to allow operation. | Fasten your seat belt. The light should turn off. If not, check the buckle sensor or harness connection. | |
| Air Filter | AMBER | Indicates the engine air filter is restricted, reducing power and fuel efficiency in your Bobcat loader; common in dusty conditions. | Replace the air filter element. Bobcat recommends checking the dust cup and cleaning it if it's full. | |
| Work Lights | GREEN | Green indicator that the optional work lights (usually LED) are on, providing illumination for the Bobcat’s working area. | No action needed. Turn off when not required to conserve battery power. | |
| High Beam | BLUE | Blue light indicates the high-beam headlights are activated for better visibility when operating the Bobcat at night or in low-light conditions. | Switch to low beam when approaching other operators to avoid glare. | |
| Parking Brake | RED | This red light stays on when the parking brake is engaged; Bobcat skid steers require the brake to be released before moving. | Release the parking brake before driving. If the light stays on, the brake switch may be faulty. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | AMBER | A flashing hourglass icon indicates that scheduled maintenance, such as engine oil change or hydraulic filter replacement, is due on your Bobcat. | Perform the required service as per the Bobcat maintenance chart. Reset the interval after service. | |
| Hydraulic Oil | AMBER | Amber caution for low hydraulic oil level or high oil temperature in the Bobcat’s hydraulic system, which can degrade performance and cause wear. | Check hydraulic fluid level with the sight gauge when the machine is level. Add recommended oil if low. Allow cooling if hot. | |
| Water in Fuel | AMBER | Detects water in the diesel fuel system of your Bobcat, which can cause injector damage and poor engine performance. | Drain the water separator bowl immediately. Replace the fuel filter if contaminated. | |
| Reduced Power (Limp Mode) | AMBER | The engine control unit (ECU) has activated limp-home mode to protect the Bobcat’s engine, limiting RPM and speed due to a fault like a sensor failure. | Operate the machine cautiously to a safe location. Have the fault codes read by a Bobcat technician. | |
| High Exhaust Temp (HEST) | AMBER | Indicates the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is actively regenerating, raising exhaust temperature; this is normal on Bobcat Tier 4 final models. | Keep the machine running and away from flammable materials. Do not shut down during regeneration unless it is safe to do so. | |
| Door Open | RED | Signals that the cab door or side panel is not fully closed; Bobcat skid steers may disable boom and bucket controls if the door is ajar for safety. | Close and latch the door securely. If the light persists, check the door switch alignment. |
20 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Engine Overheat
Common causes
- Clogged radiator or oil cooler fins
- Low coolant level
- Failed cooling fan belt
- Excessive load in high ambient temperature
What to do
Stop the Bobcat immediately. Clean the radiator and oil cooler fins with compressed air. Check coolant level when cool and add 50/50 mix. Inspect fan belt tension and replace if loose. Allow engine to cool before restarting.
Hydraulic System Failure
Common causes
- Low hydraulic oil level
- Hydraulic pump failure
- Contaminated hydraulic fluid
- Blocked suction strainer
What to do
Shut down the Bobcat. Check hydraulic oil level at the sight gauge; fill to the 'FULL' mark with Bobcat approved hydraulic oil. Examine for external leaks. If no obvious issue, have the system pressure tested by a service dealer.
Low Engine Oil Pressure
Common causes
- Low oil level
- Oil pump failure
- Clogged oil pickup screen
- Excessive oil dilution with fuel
What to do
Stop the engine immediately. Check oil level with the dipstick; add oil if low. If level is adequate but light stays on, do not restart. Tow the Bobcat to a repair facility to inspect the oil pump and pressure relief valve.
Charging System Malfunction
Common causes
- Loose or broken alternator belt
- Faulty alternator
- Bad battery connections
- Blown fuse
What to do
Check the alternator belt tension (should deflect about 1/2 inch). Tighten or replace if necessary. Clean battery terminals and ensure cables are tight. If light remains, have the alternator output tested.
DPF Regeneration Required
Common causes
- Excessive idling or light-load operation
- Ash buildup in DPF
- Faulty exhaust temperature sensors
- Incomplete regeneration cycles
What to do
If the DPF regeneration light is solid, drive the Bobcat at a moderate load (e.g., moving materials) to allow passive regen. If flashing, initiate a parked regeneration using the switch per the Bobcat manual. If unsuccessful, contact a dealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Bobcat skid steer's master warning light come on and the machine won't move?
This often indicates a hydraulic system fault, such as low hydraulic oil or a failed charge pump. Check the hydraulic fluid level and look for leaks. If the level is fine, the hydrostatic drive may need professional diagnosis.
How do I clear the service hour light on my Bobcat?
After performing the required maintenance, turn the key to the ON position, then press and hold the hour meter reset button (usually under the panel) for 5 seconds until the light flashes and turns off. Consult your model’s manual for exact location.
What does a flashing red seat belt indicator mean?
A flashing seat belt light on a Bobcat skid steer means the safety interlock circuit is active, and the boom and bucket controls will not function. Ensure the seat belt is properly latched and the operator is seated. If it persists, check the seat switch under the seat.
Can I operate my Bobcat with the amber 'water in fuel' light on?
You can continue for a short time, but drain the water separator bowl as soon as possible. Water in the fuel can damage the injection pump. If the light stays on after draining, replace the fuel filter.
Why does my Bobcat's glow plug light flash intermittently?
A flashing glow plug light indicates a fault in the preheat system, such as a bad glow plug relay or one or more open glow plugs. Have the system tested by a Bobcat technician, especially in cold weather to ensure reliable starting.
What should I do if the exhaust temperature warning light comes on while operating?
This light indicates the DPF is actively regenerating and the exhaust is very hot. Do not shut off the engine; continue operating at moderate load until the light goes out. If possible, park away from combustible materials.