Current ISO Automotive Symbols versus Alternatives - A Preference Study

Suggestions for pictographic symbols for identifying automotive controls and displays were obtained from 32 drivers. A total of 142 symbol candidates were developed from these suggestions for 25 functions. Subsequently, 104 people at a driver licensing office ranked these candidates and corresponding symbols in ISO Standard 2575 from best to worst. The criterion was how well the candidates represented the functions of interest. Based on those data the authors recommend replacing the ISO symbols for the lighter, fog lights, hood release, master lighting switch, and temperature and continuing to seek alternatives for the front defrost, hazard, headlamp cleaner, high beam headlamps, unleaded fuel, parking lights, rear defrost, windshield washer, and windshield washer/wiper.