Liebherr R920 Dash Warning Lights: Symbols and Meanings

The Liebherr R920 excavator features a comprehensive instrument cluster designed to keep you informed of machine status at a glance. With a focus on hydraulic system health and engine performance, the display ensures safe and efficient operation on any jobsite.

How to read the colors: Red indicators demand immediate stop and attention, amber warns of potential issues or required action, while green or blue indicate active systems or normal status.

Liebherr R920 Warning Light Symbols

SymbolNameColorWhat it meansWhat to do
Master Warning (Stop)REDA critical system fault has been detected on your R920 that requires immediate machine shutdown to prevent damage.Stop the engine and consult the Liebherr diagnostic menu for error codes.
Master CautionAMBERA non-critical issue has been logged in the R920's control system; the machine can operate but should be checked soon.Review active faults via the LCD display and schedule service.
Check Engine (MIL)AMBERThe engine control unit on your R920 detects a fault in the emission or fuel system that may affect power and compliance.Contact your Liebherr dealer to run a diagnostic scan and clear the code.
Engine Oil PressureREDEngine oil pressure in the Liebherr D934 diesel has dropped below safe operating level, risking bearing damage.Stop engine immediately and check oil level and pressure sender.
Battery / ChargingREDThe alternator on your R920 is not producing sufficient voltage, draining the battery and risking electrical failure.Inspect alternator belt and connections; if still lit, replace alternator.
Coolant TemperatureREDEngine coolant temperature in the R920 has exceeded the safe threshold, potentially causing overheating and head gasket failure.Stop engine, allow to cool, and check coolant level, fan drive, and radiator for blockages.
PParking BrakeREDThe parking brake on your R920 is engaged or a fault in the brake circuit is preventing disengagement.Release parking brake manually; if light persists, check brake pressure switch and wiring.
Glow Plug / PreheatAMBERThe glow plug system in the Liebherr D934 is active during cold start or a fault has occurred, extending preheat time.Wait for light to turn off before cranking; if flashing, have glow plugs tested.
Water in FuelAMBERMoisture has accumulated in the fuel filter/water separator of your R920, which can cause injection pump damage.Drain water from the separator bowl and replace fuel filter if necessary.
Low FuelAMBERThe fuel level in the R920's tank is low; the machine can operate but refuel soon to avoid air ingress.Refuel the excavator with clean diesel of the correct cetane rating.
Hydraulic SystemREDThe hydraulic system on your R920 has detected a critical fault, such as low oil level, high temperature, or filter blockage.Stop machine and inspect hydraulic oil level, hoses, and filters; do not operate until resolved.
Fasten Seat BeltREDThe driver's seatbelt in the R920 is not fastened; machine operation may be disabled for safety.Buckle the seatbelt before moving the excavator.
Hydraulic OilAMBERHydraulic oil temperature is elevated or level is low on the R920; performance may be reduced.Allow system to cool and check hydraulic oil level and cooler operation.
Air FilterAMBERThe engine air filter restriction indicator on your R920 shows excessive clogging, affecting engine power and fuel economy.Replace the air filter element and reset the restriction indicator.
Service / Hour MeterAMBERScheduled maintenance is due based on engine hours or calendar interval for the R920.Perform the required service per the Liebherr maintenance schedule (oil, filters, etc.).
Work LightsGREENThe work lights on the R920 are switched on, illuminating the working area during low-light conditions.Turn off when not needed to conserve battery.
Beacon / Rotating LightGREENThe rotating beacon on your R920 is active, indicating the machine is in operation for safety.Ensure beacon is visible; turn off when leaving machine unattended.
Swing / Slew LockAMBERThe swing lock pin is engaged on the R920, preventing the upper structure from rotating; machine is safe for transport.Release swing lock before operating the excavator.
Overload / CapacityREDThe R920's lift capacity has been exceeded or the load moment limit is triggered; risk of tipping or structural damage.Reduce load immediately by lowering or repositioning; check lift chart for safe working range.
MINLow Oil LevelAMBEREngine oil level in the R920 is below the safe mark; continued operation could cause engine wear.Add oil of the recommended grade (typically Liebherr 15W-40) to the correct level.
High Exhaust Temp (HEST)AMBERExhaust temperature in the R920's aftertreatment system is high, often during regeneration; normal operation continues.If light stays on, contact dealer for regeneration system inspection.

21 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
  • Fan belt slippage
  • Defective thermostat

What to do

Allow engine to cool, check coolant level in the expansion tank on the right side of the engine compartment. Inspect fan belt tension; replace if loose. Have thermostat tested by Liebherr service.

Hydraulic System Failure

Common causes

  • Low hydraulic oil level
  • Clogged return filter
  • Internal pump wear

What to do

Check hydraulic oil sight glass on the left side of the tank; top up with Liebherr HLP 46 oil. Replace return filter element per schedule. If pump noise persists, perform high-pressure test.

Engine Won't Start

Common causes

  • Low battery voltage
  • Faulty starter motor
  • Fuel system air lock

What to do

Verify battery voltage (minimum 12.4V); clean terminals. Listen for starter click; if silent, check starter relay. Bleed air from fuel system at the filter housing using the hand primer pump.

Swing Brake Stuck

Common causes

  • Swing lock pin engaged
  • Hydraulic swing brake valve stuck
  • Worn brake disc

What to do

Ensure swing lock pin is fully retracted (indicator green). Cycle swing brake switch; if still stuck, check solenoid valve at the swivel joint. Replace brake disc if worn below 5mm thickness.

Emission System Fault

Common causes

  • DEF system inactive (if equipped)
  • DPF soot overload
  • Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve sticking

What to do

For DEF-equipped R920 models, check AdBlue level in tank behind cab. Initiate park regeneration via LCD menu. If EGR fault persists, have EGR valve cleaned by certified technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if the Master Warning (Stop) light comes on while operating the R920?

Immediately stop the engine in a safe location. Note any accompanying alerts on the display, then consult the Liebherr diagnostic manual for fault codes. Do not restart until the issue is resolved.

How often should I replace the hydraulic oil filter on my R920?

Liebherr recommends replacing the hydraulic return filter every 500 hours or annually, whichever comes first. Use genuine Liebherr filter elements to maintain system cleanliness.

Why does the glow plug light stay on for a long time in cold weather on the R920?

The Liebherr D934 engine has an extended preheat cycle below -10°C. The light may remain on for up to 20 seconds. If it stays on longer, the glow plugs or control relay may need testing.

Can I operate the R920 with the swing lock light on?

No, the swing lock light indicates the pin is engaged, which locks the upper structure. Attempting to swing with the pin engaged could damage the swing gear. Release the lock before operation.

What does the amber 'Overload' light mean on the R920?

It means the load moment limit is being approached or exceeded. Reduce the load immediately by lowering the boom or moving the machine to a safer position. Refer to the load chart in the cab.

How do I reset the service hour meter after an oil change on the R920?

Press and hold the 'MODE' button on the instrument cluster for 5 seconds until the service reminder flashes, then press 'SET' to confirm reset. The interval will reset to the next scheduled hours.