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.
If you are switching from petrol or diesel to an electric car, many dashboard lights will be familiar: brakes, airbags, ABS, tyre pressure. Others disappear entirely, because there is no oil, no exhaust and no gearbox in the usual sense. And a handful are new. This guide explains the differences and what each EV-specific warning usually means. As always, symbols vary by maker, so check your handbook.
Lights both types share
These work the same way whatever powers the car:
- Brake system warning: parking brake on, low fluid or a brake fault.
- ABS: the anti-lock function may not work.
- Airbag / SRS: a restraint system fault.
- Tyre pressure monitoring: low pressure or a system fault. EVs are heavy, so correct pressures matter for range and wear too.
- Stability and traction control, power steering and seatbelt reminders.
At the MOT, the same rules apply: ABS, airbag and stability control warnings are failures for electric cars too.
Lights you won't see on an electric car
- Oil pressure: no engine oil to monitor.
- Engine management light: there is no combustion engine, though EVs have their own system-fault warnings.
- Glow plugs, DPF and AdBlue: diesel-only.
Plug-in and conventional hybrids have an engine as well, so they keep the engine lights and add the electric ones below.
EV-specific warnings
Ready or power-on indicator (usually green)
An EV is silent when it is switched on, so a "Ready" light (or a car-shaped symbol with arrows) tells you it will move when you press the accelerator. It is information, not a warning, but worth recognising before you step out of the car.
Reduced power or "tortoise" light (amber)
The car is limiting power, often because the traction battery is very low, very cold or too hot, or because of a fault. Drive gently to a charger or a safe stop and look at the message shown on the screen.
Low traction battery (amber)
The equivalent of a low fuel light. Range estimates fall quickly in cold weather and at motorway speeds, so plan to charge sooner rather than later.
Electrical or high-voltage system fault (usually red)
Often shown as a car with an exclamation mark, or a battery with a warning. Treat a red electrical warning seriously: stop when safe and contact the manufacturer's assistance line. Do not attempt any repair: high-voltage components are dangerous and should only be handled by trained technicians.
12-volt battery warning
EVs still have a conventional 12-volt battery that powers locks, screens and the systems that "wake" the car. If it goes flat, the car may not switch on even with a full traction battery. A warning here deserves prompt attention.
Battery temperature warning
The battery is outside its preferred temperature range. The car may limit power or charging speed until it recovers.
Charging cable connected
A plug symbol shows the car is connected. Most EVs will not drive away while plugged in.
Pedestrian warning sound fault
New electric and hybrid cars must make an artificial sound at low speeds so pedestrians can hear them. A warning means that system needs checking.
What to do when an EV warning appears?
- Read the message on the central or driver's screen: EVs usually explain the warning in words as well as a symbol.
- Note the colour. Red still means stop when safe.
- For low battery or reduced power, ease off, switch off heating or cooling you do not need and head for the nearest charger.
- For high-voltage faults, stop, switch off, and call the manufacturer's roadside assistance. Mention that it is an EV, as recovery may need a flatbed.
- Book a check for any amber warning that persists after a restart.
Frequently asked questions
Can an EV be towed if it breaks down?
Many makers say not with the driven wheels on the ground, because the motors can generate electricity when turned. Check your handbook and tell the recovery service.
Do EVs need an MOT?
Yes. In England, Scotland and Wales the first MOT is due when the car is three years old (four in Northern Ireland), then every year, the same as petrol and diesel cars. There is no exhaust emissions test.
Sources and further reading
- GOV.UK: MOT inspection manual for cars
- GOV.UK: Getting an MOT
- Wikipedia: Electric vehicle warning sounds
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.