Understanding The Warning Lights
This may sound so obvious, and it is, but a recent survey by the AA discovered that 47% of women and 37% of men could not identify the symbols used for basic warnings.
As cars have evolved the number of potential problems of something going wrong has increased and with it the number of lights that warn if there is a problem.
It is important to understand what each warning represents, some warn that something has gone wrong, but it is safe to continue driving to your destinstion where the problem can then be rectified. Others can be more serious and indicate that you should stop immediately before you damage the vehicle or even worse yourself.
If you are in any doubt as to the meaning of a light that appears on your dashboard you should pull over and consult the handbook as to what the problem is and whether you can continue driving to find a garage, or whether the car should not be driven and you must call a breakdown service.
We have illustrated the more common warning lights below with a brief description, but certain warning lights are specific to certain cars and therefore it is important that you look in your handbook to determine what each light means.
Brake warning lights. There may be one light for different warnings or up to three separate ones. If you suspect the light indicates low brake fluid level, do not drive the car. Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary.
Brake Pad Wear lights.There may be a brake pad wear warning light (replace the pads, or have the job done, as soon as possible) or a handbrake ‘on’ light (release the handbrake fully).
Charge warning light. The alternator is not charging the battery. Don’t drive too far in case the battery goes flat. Have the alternator and wiring checked.
Oil pressure warning light. This means low oil pressure. If it comes on when you’re driving, stop the engine immediately. Check the oil level and call for assistance if necessary.
Coolant temperature warning light. Stop as soon as possible. Wait for the engine to cool and then check the coolant level and top up if necessary. If the light comes on again soon, stop and call for assistance.
Coolant level warning light. Take the same action as above.
Engine management system warning light. The car can be driven, but the engine management system should be checked as soon as possible.
ABS warning light. This indicates a fault with the anti-lock braking system. The car can be driven, but the braking system should be checked as soon as possible. (The car won’t pass an MoT with this light on.)
Airbag or SRS warning light. Again, the car can be driven but the airbag may not work if you have an accident. Get the airbag system checked as soon as possible.
Glow plug warning light (on diesel engines). This is just to tell you that the glow plugs are heating up in readiness for a cold start. You should wait for the light to extinguish before starting the engine.
Water in fuel warning light (on diesel engines). This means water needs to be drained from the fuel filter – a simple task, explained in your car manual. Don’t leave water in the injection system as this can cause expensive damage.
Low fuel warning light. Fill up with fuel soon – do not risk running out and being stranded.