Dashboard warning lights and messages help you understand your vehicle's condition. Some lamps briefly illuminate during the startup self check. If a warning remains on after startup or appears while driving, follow the specific instructions in your owner's manual. Urgency depends on the warning, whether it flashes and any other symptoms, not colour alone.
Red Warnings: Follow the Specific Stop or Safety Instruction
Red warnings can require immediate action. Check the symbol and message: an engine temperature or oil pressure warning needs a different response from a parking brake or seat belt indicator. Follow the owner's manual for your vehicle.
The temperature warning light, shown as a thermometer icon, means your engine is overheating. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and let it cool. Do not open the radiator cap when hot. Call for assistance if the light stays on after cooling.
The oil pressure light, shown as an oil can symbol, can indicate a lubrication system fault. If it stays on with the engine running, stop as soon as it is safe and switch the engine off. Follow the owner's manual and arrange professional assistance. Do not keep the engine running or resume driving just because the oil level is correct.
A battery or charging system warning while driving needs prompt attention. Switch off unnecessary electrical equipment when safe and seek professional assistance. Do not assume you can reach a shop before the vehicle stops. If other urgent warnings appear or the vehicle behaves abnormally, stop safely and follow the owner's manual.
Yellow or Amber Warnings: Check the Urgency
An amber warning is not automatically safe to postpone. A flashing warning, other warning lamps or changed vehicle behaviour can require immediate action. Read the accompanying message and follow the owner's manual.
The check engine light can indicate several different faults. For a steady light without other urgent warnings or abnormal vehicle behaviour, follow the owner's manual and arrange diagnosis. A flashing light can indicate a misfire or another urgent fault. Avoid hard acceleration and deceleration. If the engine runs roughly, power is reduced or the manual instructs you to stop, stop safely and arrange assistance.
A tire pressure warning can indicate an underinflated tire. Stop as soon as it is safe, check for a flat or damaged tire, and check pressures against the vehicle's tire pressure label or owner's manual. Do not assume it is safe to drive to a gas station. Arrange assistance if a tire is flat or damaged or handling is abnormal. A light that flashes and then stays on can indicate a monitoring system fault. Follow the manual and have it checked.
An ABS warning can mean the anti lock braking function is unavailable. Conventional braking may remain when the ABS warning is the only fault, but do not assume normal braking if another brake warning appears or braking feels different. Have the system checked promptly. If braking is reduced or a brake system warning stays on with the parking brake released, stop safely and arrange assistance.
Green or Blue Lights: Information Only
Green and blue lights are informational. High beam, turn signal, and cruise control indicators simply tell you which systems are active.
When in doubt about any warning light, check your owner's manual. If you need a diagnostic check, request a quote on CarFix and a local shop will help.