Critical RED Warning Lights
Brake Warning Light
What it means: Low brake fluid, handbrake still on, or a serious braking system fault.
What to do: Check the handbrake is fully released. If the light stays on, stop safely and check the brake fluid level. If fluid is low or the car feels different to brake, call a breakdown service, do not drive.
Engine Temperature Warning
What it means: The engine is overheating. Continuing to drive can cause catastrophic engine damage within minutes.
What to do: Stop safely, turn off the engine, and wait at least 30 minutes before opening the bonnet. Do not remove the coolant cap while hot. Check the coolant level when cool. Call a garage if it recurs.
Oil Pressure Warning
What it means: Oil pressure is critically low, this is a "stop immediately" situation.
What to do: Stop the engine immediately. Do not restart. Check the oil level, if low, top up and restart carefully. If the light stays on after topping up, call for recovery. Running with low oil pressure will seize the engine.
Battery / Charging Warning
What it means: The alternator is not charging the battery. The car is running on battery power only, typically 30–60 minutes of charge remaining.
What to do: Turn off non-essential electrics (heated seats, blower, lights if safe). Drive directly to a garage. Do not turn the engine off, you may not be able to restart.
Engine Warning Light (Red)
What it means: A serious engine fault, often a significant misfire or immediate emissions issue.
What to do: If the light is flashing red, stop safely, a flashing engine light typically indicates a serious misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. Constant red engine light: stop driving and arrange recovery.
Common AMBER Warning Lights
Engine Management Light (Amber)
An emissions or engine management fault. Normal braking and driving should be unaffected, but fuel economy and performance may be reduced. Book a diagnostic check soon, the fault code will identify the cause.
ABS Warning Light
The anti-lock braking system has a fault. Your normal brakes still work, but ABS (which prevents wheels locking under heavy braking) is disabled. Drive carefully and see a mechanic soon.
ESP / Traction Control Light
Electronic stability program or traction control has a fault, or has been turned off. If it came on suddenly, book a check. If it's flashing while driving, it's actively working, normal in slippery conditions.
TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring)
One or more tyres have low pressure. Check all four tyre pressures and inflate to the correct level (found in the door jamb sticker or manual). The light should go out after driving a few miles once pressures are correct.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
The DPF is becoming blocked with soot. On a motorway or A-road, drive at 40mph+ for 15–20 minutes, this triggers a regeneration cycle. If it doesn't clear, book a garage appointment.
Power Steering Warning
Power steering has a fault. The car is safe to drive slowly to a garage, but the steering will be heavier than usual. Do not attempt long journeys.