Bobcat Excavator E20 Dashboard Warning Lights and Symbols

The Bobcat Excavator E20 features a compact design and intuitive instrument cluster, providing operators with key status and warning indicators. Its display panel is tailored for essential monitoring, ensuring safe and efficient operation in confined job sites. Each indicator is carefully chosen to match the E20’s engine, hydraulics, and emissions systems.

How to read the colors: Red lights on the E20 indicate immediate hazards or shutdown conditions, while amber means caution or required maintenance. Green or blue lights signal normal operation or active features.

Bobcat Excavator E20 Warning Light Symbols

SymbolNameColorWhat it meansWhat to do
Master Warning (Stop)REDA critical system failure or severe malfunction has been detected on your E20, requiring an immediate stop.Safely park and shut down the excavator; contact your Bobcat service provider.
Master CautionAMBERA non-critical fault or system alert is present, signaling attention is needed soon.Check the display for details and plan prompt maintenance.
Check Engine (MIL)AMBERThe engine control unit has logged a fault in the E20's engine management system.Review fault codes and arrange for diagnostics if the light stays on.
Engine Oil PressureREDThe E20's engine oil pressure has dropped dangerously low, risking engine damage.Shut down the engine immediately and inspect oil level and leaks.
Battery / ChargingREDThe alternator is not charging the E20’s battery, risking loss of electrical power.Turn off non-essential electrical loads and check belt and connections.
Coolant TemperatureREDThe E20’s engine coolant temperature is excessively high, indicating potential overheating.Stop operation, let the engine cool, and check coolant level.
Low FuelAMBERFuel level in the E20’s tank is critically low.Refuel as soon as possible to avoid engine shutdown.
Hydraulic SystemAMBERA problem has been detected in the E20’s hydraulic system, affecting performance.Check hydraulic fluid levels and inspect for leaks.
Hydraulic OilAMBERHydraulic oil level or quality is below normal range in your E20.Top up hydraulic oil and check for contamination.
Fuel Filter / Water SeparatorAMBERThe fuel filter or water separator on the E20 is clogged or full.Drain water and replace the fuel filter as needed.
DPF / RegenerationAMBERThe E20’s Diesel Particulate Filter requires regeneration due to soot accumulation.Follow the display prompts to initiate or complete regeneration.
DEF / AdBlueAMBERThe E20’s DEF (AdBlue) level is low or there is a system fault.Refill DEF tank and check for system warnings.
Water in FuelAMBERThe water separator has detected water in the E20’s fuel supply.Drain the water separator to prevent engine issues.
Air FilterAMBERThe air filter on your E20 is clogged, reducing engine efficiency.Clean or replace the air filter promptly.
Service / Hour MeterAMBERScheduled maintenance is due based on E20’s operating hours.Perform required service as indicated in the operator’s manual.
Work LightsGREENThe E20’s work lights are switched on for improved visibility.No action needed unless lights are not required.
Beacon / Rotating LightAMBERThe beacon light is active, alerting others to the E20’s operation.Ensure beacon is used in required areas.
PParking BrakeREDThe parking brake is engaged on the E20, preventing movement.Release the brake before attempting to drive.
Fasten Seat BeltAMBERThe operator seat belt is not fastened on the E20.Buckle the seat belt before operation.
Glow Plug / PreheatAMBERThe glow plugs are preheating the E20’s engine for cold starting.Wait for the indicator to turn off before starting the engine.
High BeamBLUEThe E20’s high beam headlights are activated.Switch off if not needed for visibility.

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

Most Important Warning Lights

Engine Oil Pressure

Common causes

  • Low engine oil level
  • Oil pump failure
  • Oil filter blockage

What to do

Immediately stop the E20, check oil level and refill if low; if the problem persists, have the oil pump and filter inspected by a Bobcat technician.

Coolant Temperature

Common causes

  • Low coolant level
  • Radiator blockage
  • Failed thermostat

What to do

Turn off the E20 and allow it to cool; inspect coolant level and radiator for obstructions, and seek professional service if overheating continues.

Hydraulic System

Common causes

  • Low hydraulic fluid
  • Hydraulic hose leak
  • Clogged hydraulic filter

What to do

Check the E20's hydraulic fluid reservoir, refill if needed, and inspect for visible leaks or damaged hoses; replace the filter if necessary.

Battery / Charging

Common causes

  • Broken alternator belt
  • Faulty alternator
  • Corroded battery terminals

What to do

Inspect the alternator belt for damage, clean battery terminals, and have the charging system tested at a Bobcat service center.

DPF / Regeneration

Common causes

  • Excessive soot in DPF
  • Interrupted regeneration cycles
  • DEF system malfunction

What to do

Follow the E20’s display prompts to complete a regeneration cycle; if the light remains, check DEF fluid and consult a Bobcat dealer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the DPF regeneration light stays on?

Keep the E20 running at a high idle to allow the regeneration cycle to finish; if the light does not go out, contact your Bobcat dealer.

Why is the hydraulic oil light illuminated?

This means the hydraulic oil level is low or the oil is contaminated; top up the oil and check for leaks or dirty fluid.

Can I operate the E20 if the fuel filter light is on?

Operation is not recommended; drain the water separator and replace the fuel filter promptly to avoid engine issues.

How do I reset the service/hour meter indicator?

After performing scheduled maintenance, follow the E20 operator's manual instructions to reset the hour meter through the display menu.

Is it safe to run the E20 with the master caution light on?

You may continue operating briefly, but investigate the cause as soon as possible to prevent further issues.