Dashboard warning lights explained

Your car's dashboard constantly communicates with you through warning lights. Understanding the colour coding helps you take the right action.

Red lights: immediate action required

A red light, such as the oil or temperature warning, means you should stop safely as soon as possible. Continuing to drive can cause serious engine damage.

Yellow or orange lights: book an appointment soon

The engine management or ABS light needs attention, but you can usually still drive safely to the garage. Don't wait too long.

Green or blue lights: informational

These indicate a system is active, such as high beam or cruise control — no cause for concern.

The most common lights

• Engine management light: can indicate anything from a sensor fault to serious engine trouble.
• Oil light: low oil level or oil pressure issue — stop immediately.
• Battery/charging light: a problem with the battery's charging system.
• Tyre pressure light: one or more tyres are low on air.

Not sure about a light? Our mechanics read out your car quickly and accurately with the latest diagnostic equipment. View our diagnostics service.