Mack Anthem Warning Lights and Symbols (Meaning and Fixes)

The Mack Anthem features a fully digital 12-inch LCD instrument cluster with customizable display layouts, providing critical vehicle data and warnings at a glance. Designed for long-haul trucking, the cluster integrates seamlessly with Mack's proprietary telematics system. Clear color-coded alerts ensure drivers can quickly assess vehicle status.

How to read the colors: Red indicates immediate attention required (stop safely); amber warns of potential issues requiring service; green/blue denotes active systems or normal status (e.g., headlights).

Mack Anthem Warning Light Symbols

SymbolNameColorWhat it meansWhat to do
Master Warning (Stop)REDA critical fault has been detected; the Mack Anthem requires immediate shutdown to prevent engine damage.Safely pull over, shut down engine, and contact Mack roadside assistance.
Master CautionAMBERA non-critical system fault has been detected in the Mack Anthem; service is recommended.Schedule service at the earliest opportunity; reduce speed and avoid heavy loads.
Check Engine (MIL)AMBERThe Mack Anthem’s engine control unit has detected an emissions or performance fault.Reduce speed and have the engine diagnosed by a Mack dealer.
Engine Oil PressureREDOil pressure in the Mack Anthem’s MP series engine is critically low.Pull over immediately and shut off engine; do not restart.
Battery / ChargingREDThe Mack Anthem’s charging system voltage is outside normal range.Check alternator belt and battery connections; if persists, request tow.
Coolant TemperatureREDEngine coolant temperature in the Mack Anthem has exceeded safe limits.Reduce engine load, increase fan speed, and pull over if temperature continues to rise.
ATTransmission TempAMBERThe Mack mDRIVE transmission fluid temperature is above optimal range.Downshift or reduce load; pull over if light stays on.
Brake SystemREDA fault has been detected in the Mack Anthem’s air brake system.Stop immediately and check air pressure; do not drive until repaired.
ABSABSAMBERThe anti-lock braking system on the Mack Anthem has a malfunction.Brakes will function normally without ABS; service the system soon.
PParking BrakeAMBERThe parking brake on the Mack Anthem is engaged.Release parking brake before moving.
Tire Pressure (TPMS)AMBEROne or more tires on the Mack Anthem have low pressure.Check and inflate tires to recommended pressure.
Seat BeltREDThe driver’s seat belt in the Mack Anthem is not fastened.Fasten seat belt immediately.
Glow Plug / PreheatAMBERThe glow plugs are active to aid cold starting of the Mack Anthem’s diesel engine.Wait for the light to turn off before starting the engine.
DPF / RegenerationAMBERThe diesel particulate filter (DPF) in the Mack Anthem is actively regenerating to clean soot.Maintain highway speed until regeneration completes; do not shut off engine.
DEF / AdBlueAMBERDiesel exhaust fluid level is low or system fault in the Mack Anthem.Add DEF at next stop; if light persists, service DEF system.
Water in FuelAMBERWater has been detected in the Mack Anthem’s fuel system.Drain fuel filter water separator as soon as possible.
Low FuelAMBERThe Mack Anthem’s fuel level is low.Refuel at the next opportunity.
High BeamBLUEThe high beam headlights are on in the Mack Anthem.Dim when approaching other traffic.
Reduced Power (Limp Mode)AMBEREngine power is reduced to protect the Mack Anthem’s drivetrain.Drive at reduced speed to nearest service center.
Air FilterAMBERThe air intake filter on the Mack Anthem is restricted.Replace air filter at next service.
Fuel FilterAMBERWater or contamination in the Mack Anthem’s fuel filter system.Drain water separator or replace fuel filter.
Service Hour MeterAMBERThe Mack Anthem is due for scheduled maintenance based on engine hours.Schedule service with a Mack dealer.
AIRAir Brake Pressure LowREDAir pressure in the Mack Anthem’s brake system is below safe operating level.Stop and allow compressor to build pressure; do not drive until pressure is normal.
EBEngine / Exhaust BrakeGREENThe auxiliary braking system is active on the Mack Anthem.The retarder is engaged; normal operation.
TrailerGREENThe Mack Anthem’s trailer connection is active and functional.No action needed; indicates proper trailer hookup.
Door OpenREDA door on the Mack Anthem is ajar.Close all doors before driving.
MINLow Oil LevelAMBEREngine oil level in the Mack Anthem is below the minimum mark.Add oil as specified in owner’s manual.
Brake Fluid LevelREDBrake fluid level is low in the Mack Anthem’s hydraulic brake system.Check brake fluid reservoir and top off with DOT 4 fluid.
OFFStability Control OffAMBERElectronic stability program is disabled on the Mack Anthem.Enable stability control when safe to do so.
Washer Fluid LowAMBERWindshield washer fluid level is low in the Mack Anthem.Fill washer fluid reservoir.

30 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.

Most Important Warning Lights

Engine Coolant Overheat

Common causes

  • Low coolant level
  • Radiator fan failure
  • Thermostat stuck closed

What to do

Pull over immediately, allow engine to cool, check coolant reservoir and top off. If recurring, inspect cooling system at a Mack service center.

Low Oil Pressure

Common causes

  • Oil level low
  • Oil pump failure
  • Clogged oil filter

What to do

Shut down engine immediately. Check oil level and add if low. Do not restart; tow to Mack dealer for diagnosis.

DEF System Fault

Common causes

  • DEF fluid contaminated
  • DEF pump failure
  • NOx sensor malfunction

What to do

If DEF level is low, refill. If light persists, a DEF system component may need replacement; visit Mack dealer to prevent derate.

Air Brake Pressure Loss

Common causes

  • Air leak in lines
  • Compressor failure
  • Moisture in air tanks

What to do

Stop immediately. Check air pressure gauge; if below 60 psi, do not drive. Drain air tanks and inspect for leaks. Contact repair service.

Electrical Charging System Failure

Common causes

  • Alternator belt broken
  • Battery terminal corrosion
  • Faulty alternator

What to do

Reduce electrical load, drive to nearest stop. Check battery connections and belt. If unable to charge, request roadside assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the flashing DPF regen light mean on my Mack Anthem?

The flashing amber DPF light indicates active regeneration. Maintain highway speed to allow the process to complete; do not idle or shut down the engine prematurely.

Why does my Anthem show a 'Reduced Power' light after a DEF fault?

The Mack Anthem’s engine will enter derate mode to protect emissions components if the DEF system is not working. Have the DEF system diagnosed and repaired to restore full power.

How often should the fuel filter/water separator be drained on the Mack Anthem?

It depends on fuel quality, but Mack recommends draining the water separator every 10,000 miles or when the 'Water in Fuel' light appears.

Can I drive with the ABS light on in my Anthem?

Yes, the brakes will function normally, but the anti-lock feature is disabled. Have the system inspected at a Mack dealer as soon as practical.

What does the 'Hour Meter' light indicate on the Mack Anthem dash?

It is a service reminder based on engine hours. Refer to your Anthem’s maintenance schedule for the required service at that interval.

Why is my Anthem's transmission temperature light on while climbing a grade?

The transmission may be overheating due to excessive load or low fluid level. Downshift to reduce load and allow the transmission to cool. If the light persists, check fluid level and condition.