Seeing a hydraulic warning light flash on your Bobcat’s dashboard can be stressful — but don’t worry. This guide explains what these Bobcat hydraulic warning lights mean, the most common reasons they appear, and the right steps to take to protect your equipment. Ignoring these signals can lead to serious hydraulic damage and costly downtime, so it’s important to act fast and smart.
What Do Bobcat Hydraulic Warning Symbols Mean?
1. High Hydraulic Oil Temperature
- Usually shown as a gear with a thermometer.
- This means the hydraulic oil is overheating.
2. Hydraulic Filter Restriction
- Shown as a filter icon.
- This means the hydraulic fluid filter is clogged or restricted.
Both lights warn that something is affecting your machine’s ability to move and lift smoothly. Acting quickly can prevent major damage.
Why Is My Hydraulic Temperature Light On?
A high hydraulic oil temperature is one of the most common reasons for the warning light.
When the oil heats up too much, it loses its ability to cool, lubricate, and protect the system — leading to faster wear on vital components.
Here are 4 common causes of hydraulic overheating:
1. Low Hydraulic Fluid
Too little fluid means the system can’t carry heat away properly, causing it to overheat.
2. Clogged Oil Cooler
The hydraulic cooler works like a radiator for the oil.
If it’s covered in dirt, mud, or debris, it can’t release heat into the air — so the oil stays hot.
3. Overworking the Machine
Running your Bobcat at full capacity for long periods or using attachments beyond the machine’s limits builds up too much heat.
4. Failing Components
When a hydraulic pump or motor starts to wear out, it needs more energy to do the same work — and that extra effort creates heat.
What Triggers the Hydraulic Filter Warning?
If you see a hydraulic filter warning light, the system is warning that the filter is blocked or restricted.
This means the oil can’t flow freely through the system, which can starve key components of lubrication.
Here are the main causes:
A. Dirty or Clogged Filter
This is the most common reason. Over time, filters trap debris, metal shavings, and dirt. When full, they need to be replaced.
B. Wrong Hydraulic Fluid
Using the wrong oil type or poor-quality fluid can cause sludge or breakdown, quickly clogging the filter.
C. Internal Wear in Components
If parts like pumps, motors, or cylinders start to fail, they can release small metal particles that block the filter.
5 Steps to Troubleshoot Bobcat Hydraulic Warning Lights
“Ignoring a warning light today can lead to a complete system failure tomorrow.”
Step 1: Stop Operating Immediately
As soon as you see the light, stop the machine, disengage the hydraulic functions, and shut down the engine.
Running it in this condition can cause permanent damage.
Step 2: Check the Hydraulic Fluid Level
Let the system cool. Then check the fluid level — look through the sight glass or use the dipstick.
If it’s low, fill it with the correct type of hydraulic oil recommended by the manufacturer.
Step 3: Inspect the Hydraulic Filter
Look at your service records to see when the filter was last replaced.
If it’s overdue or visibly dirty or swollen, replace it right away.
Step 4: Examine the Hydraulic Oil Cooler
Locate the hydraulic oil cooler (usually next to the radiator).
If it’s covered with dust, dirt, or debris, clean it carefully using compressed air or a gentle pressure washer.
Step 5: Look for Leaks
Check all hoses, fittings, and components for signs of leaks.
Even a small leak can lower fluid levels and allow dirt or moisture to enter the system.
Conclusion
Understanding your Bobcat’s hydraulic warning lights helps you respond quickly and prevent major failures. Whether it’s a high oil temperature light or a clogged filter warning, inspecting early and maintaining regularly will keep your equipment working safely and smoothly.
If you discover a worn or damaged hydraulic part during your checks, be sure to replace it promptly using quality components. Explore at fridayparts.com for reliable parts like hydraulic filters, oil coolers, and other Bobcat replacement parts built to handle tough off-road conditions and keep your equipment working strong every day.
