Dashboard Warnings
Clear, jargon-free explanations of every car dashboard warning light with troubleshooting guides.
Latest guides
Glow plug warning light on diesel cars
The coil-shaped light on a diesel normally shows briefly before starting. When it flashes or stays on, here is what it means.
OBD-II code readers vs garage diagnostics: what a home scanner can and can't tell you
How plug-in OBD code readers work, what the fault codes mean, where they fall short of professional diagnostics, and how to use one sensibly.
Oil pressure warning light: why you should stop
The red oil-can light means oil pressure has dropped. Why it is one of the most serious warnings, what to check and when to call for help.
Low fuel warning light: how far can you go?
The fuel pump light means you are on reserve. Why the 'miles to empty' figure is only an estimate and the risks of running low, especially on motorways.
Exterior bulb failure warning light
A light bulb symbol with an exclamation mark means an exterior lamp has failed. How to find which bulb, the law and the MOT.
How to find what your car's warning light means
Symbols vary between makes. Where to find the official meaning for your car's lights: the handbook, digital manuals, apps and the dealer.
ABS warning light: can you still brake?
The amber ABS light means anti-lock braking is not working. Normal brakes should still work, but here is what to watch for and how it affects the MOT.
Traction control and stability control (ESC) lights
A car with skid marks: flashing means the system is working, steady means a fault or that it has been switched off.
Engine temperature warning light: what to do if your car overheats
The red thermometer light means the engine is too hot. Safe steps to take, why you must not open a hot radiator cap and common causes.
Electric car warning lights vs petrol and diesel: what's different
Which dashboard warnings electric and hybrid cars share with petrol and diesel cars, the EV-only lights you need to know, and what to do when they appear.
Brake pad wear warning light
A circle with dashed lines on each side means your brake pads are worn. How long you have and why you should not delay.
Service due indicator: what the spanner light means
A spanner or 'service due' message is a reminder, not a fault. How service intervals work and how to reset the light.
Guides
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Driver assistance warnings: lane assist, emergency braking and cruise
Warnings for lane-keeping, autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise often mean a sensor is blocked. How to clear them and when to worry.
Glow plug warning light on diesel cars
The coil-shaped light on a diesel normally shows briefly before starting. When it flashes or stays on, here is what it means.
OBD-II code readers vs garage diagnostics: what a home scanner can and can't tell you
How plug-in OBD code readers work, what the fault codes mean, where they fall short of professional diagnostics, and how to use one sensibly.
Reviews
See all →Electric car warning lights vs petrol and diesel: what's different
Which dashboard warnings electric and hybrid cars share with petrol and diesel cars, the EV-only lights you need to know, and what to do when they appear.
Warning light on the motorway: what to do
What to do if a warning light comes on while driving on a UK motorway: amber vs red, emergency areas and when to call 999.
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