Engine light on? ABS warning flashing? Not every dashboard light means an emergency, but some need immediate attention. Here is what each warning light means and whether you can keep driving or need to stop.
Your dashboard warning lights are your car's way of telling you something is wrong. Some are minor. Others mean you need to pull over right now. Here is what the most common ones mean.
Stop driving immediately
1. Engine oil pressure (red oil can)
This means oil pressure has dropped dangerously low. Driving without oil pressure will destroy your engine within minutes. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and check the oil level. If the level is fine and the light stays on, do not restart — call a mechanic.
2. Engine temperature (red thermometer)
Your engine is overheating. Pull over, turn off the engine, and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before checking coolant. Do not open the radiator cap while it is hot. Common causes include a coolant leak, failed water pump, or broken thermostat.
3. Brake system (red exclamation in circle)
If this light is on and your handbrake is fully released, your brake fluid may be low or there is a fault in the braking system. Drive slowly to a safe location and get the brakes checked before continuing.
Get checked soon (within days)
4. Check engine / engine management (amber engine outline)
The most common warning light. It can mean anything from a loose fuel cap to a misfiring engine. You can usually keep driving, but book a diagnostic scan within a few days. Ignoring it can lead to catalytic converter damage or MOT failure.
5. ABS warning (amber ABS text)
Your anti-lock braking system has a fault. Normal brakes still work, but ABS will not activate in an emergency stop. This needs a diagnostic scan to read the fault code.
6. Airbag (amber person with circle)
An airbag or seatbelt pretensioner has a fault. The airbags may not deploy in a crash. Get this checked promptly — it is a safety issue.
7. Battery / charging (red battery)
Your alternator is not charging the battery. You have limited driving time before the battery runs flat. Head straight to a mechanic or home. Avoid using heaters, heated seats, and other electrical loads to extend your range.
8. EPC (Electronic Power Control)
Common on VW, Audi, Skoda, and Seat vehicles. Indicates a fault in the engine management or throttle body. You may notice reduced power. Needs a diagnostic scan.
Monitor and check at next service
9. Tyre pressure (amber tyre cross-section)
One or more tyres are below the recommended pressure. Check and inflate all tyres to the correct pressure (found on the door jamb sticker). If the light returns after inflating, you may have a slow puncture.
10. DPF (diesel particulate filter)
Your DPF needs a regeneration cycle. Take the car for a 20-30 minute drive at motorway speed to clear it. If the light stays on, a forced regeneration with diagnostic equipment is needed.
11. Service due (spanner icon)
Your car is due for a scheduled service. Not urgent, but do not put it off for too long — skipping services leads to bigger problems.
12. Low fuel
You already know this one. But running out of fuel in a diesel car can introduce air into the fuel system, which requires bleeding and can damage the fuel pump.
What to do when a warning light comes on
For red lights: stop driving as soon as it is safe. For amber lights: you can usually continue your journey but book a check within a few days. For any warning light, a diagnostic scan from £60 will tell you exactly what the fault code means.
ESY Auto offers mobile diagnostics across Leicester and Leicestershire. We come to you, read the fault codes, and explain what needs fixing. Call 07930 500 101 or book online.
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