Dashboard warning lights are your vehicle's way of communicating problems. Understanding what each light means and how urgently you need to respond can prevent breakdowns, avoid expensive repairs, and keep you safe on the road.
Warning Light Colors and Urgency
Modern vehicles use a color-coded system to indicate the severity of issues:
Red Lights
Serious problem or safety issue. Stop driving as soon as it's safe to do so. Continuing to drive could cause damage or be dangerous.
Amber/Yellow Lights
Warning or advisory. Something needs attention soon. You can usually continue driving but should get it checked promptly.
Green/Blue Lights
Information only. Indicates a system is active or operating normally. No action required.
Critical Red Warning Lights
1. Brake Warning Light
Symbol: Circle with exclamation mark or "BRAKE" text
Meaning: Brake system problem, low brake fluid, or handbrake engaged
Action:
- Check if handbrake is fully released
- If light stays on, stop safely and check brake fluid level
- If fluid is low or light persists, do not drive - call for recovery
- Brake failure is extremely dangerous
2. Engine Temperature Warning
Symbol: Thermometer in liquid or "TEMP"
Meaning: Engine is overheating
Action:
- Stop driving immediately when safe
- Turn off engine and let it cool (at least 30 minutes)
- Check coolant level when cool (never open when hot)
- Continuing to drive can cause severe engine damage
- Call for recovery if problem persists
3. Oil Pressure Warning
Symbol: Oil can with drip
Meaning: Low oil pressure - engine lubrication problem
Action:
- Stop driving immediately when safe
- Turn off engine
- Check oil level when engine is cool
- If oil level is adequate, do not restart - call for recovery
- Driving with low oil pressure can destroy your engine
4. Battery/Charging Warning
Symbol: Battery symbol with + and - signs
Meaning: Charging system not working - battery not being charged
Action:
- You can drive for a short distance on battery power alone
- Turn off non-essential electrical items to conserve battery
- Head to nearest garage immediately
- Engine will stop when battery is depleted
5. Power Steering Warning
Symbol: Steering wheel with exclamation mark
Meaning: Power steering system fault
Action:
- Steering will become very heavy but still functional
- Drive carefully to nearest safe location
- Avoid parking maneuvers if possible
- Have system checked immediately
Important Amber Warning Lights
1. Engine Management Light (Check Engine)
Symbol: Engine outline or "CHECK ENGINE"
Meaning: Engine management system has detected a fault
Action:
- If steady: Book a diagnostic check soon. Safe to drive but may have reduced performance or higher emissions
- If flashing: Serious problem, possibly catalytic converter damage. Stop driving and call for recovery
- Common causes: Faulty oxygen sensor, loose fuel cap, failing catalytic converter
2. ABS Warning Light
Symbol: "ABS" text in circle
Meaning: Anti-lock Braking System fault
Action:
- Normal braking still works, but ABS won't activate in emergency braking
- Drive carefully and avoid harsh braking
- Have system checked within a few days
- If brake warning light also illuminates, stop immediately
3. Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Symbol: Exclamation mark inside tyre cross-section
Meaning: One or more tyres significantly under-inflated
Action:
- Check all tyre pressures as soon as possible
- Inflate to correct pressure
- If light persists, you may have a slow puncture
- Driving on under-inflated tyres is dangerous and illegal if below minimum
4. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Warning
Symbol: Box with dots inside
Meaning: DPF is blocked and needs regeneration
Action:
- Drive at speeds above 40mph for 10-15 minutes to initiate regeneration
- Don't make short journeys until light clears
- If light doesn't clear, book a professional DPF regeneration
- Ignoring this can lead to expensive DPF replacement
5. AdBlue Warning (Diesel Vehicles)
Symbol: Fuel pump with "AdBlue" text
Meaning: AdBlue fluid level low
Action:
- Top up AdBlue as soon as possible
- If completely empty, engine won't restart
- AdBlue is available at petrol stations and automotive stores
- Top up before the warning becomes critical
6. Airbag Warning Light
Symbol: Person with circle (airbag) in front
Meaning: Airbag system fault
Action:
- Airbags may not deploy in an accident
- Safe to drive but book diagnostic check soon
- Common causes: Faulty sensor, wiring issue, or seat belt problem
- MOT failure if light is illuminated
Informational Lights (Green/Blue)
These lights indicate systems are active and working normally:
Full Beam Indicator (Blue)
Main beam headlights are on
Side Lights (Green)
Side/parking lights are on
Fog Lights (Green/Amber)
Front or rear fog lights are on
Cruise Control (Green)
Cruise control is active
What to Do When a Warning Light Appears
Step-by-Step Response
- Note the color: Red = stop, Amber = caution, Green/Blue = information
- Check your manual: Confirm what the specific symbol means for your vehicle
- Assess the situation: Any unusual sounds, smells, or behavior?
- Take appropriate action: Stop immediately (red) or book a check (amber)
- Don't ignore it: Even amber lights can become serious if ignored
Common Causes and Quick Fixes
Some warning lights can be resolved without professional help:
Engine Management Light
Check fuel cap is tight - loose cap triggers this light in many vehicles
TPMS Light
Check and adjust all tyre pressures. Light should clear after driving a few miles
Battery Warning
Check battery terminals are clean and tight. Corrosion can cause false warnings
Brake Warning
Ensure handbrake is fully released. If light persists, check brake fluid level
When to Seek Professional Help
Visit a professional garage if:
- Any red warning light illuminates
- Amber lights persist after simple checks
- Multiple warning lights illuminate simultaneously
- Warning lights are accompanied by unusual sounds, smells, or behavior
- You're unsure what a warning light means
- Warning lights appear intermittently
Diagnostic Services at IQ Tyres
Warning light illuminated? Our diagnostic equipment can read fault codes from your vehicle's computer system, identify the exact problem, and recommend the appropriate repair. We offer comprehensive diagnostic services for all makes and models.
Conclusion
Dashboard warning lights are designed to protect you and your vehicle. Never ignore them, especially red warnings. Understanding what each light means and responding appropriately can prevent breakdowns, avoid expensive repairs, and most importantly, keep you safe. If you're ever unsure, our team at IQ Tyres is here to help with expert diagnostics and repairs.