Snap a photo. We'll tell you what the light means.
Point your camera at the dashboard symbol — we'll identify it and explain it in plain English.
AI-generated guidance. Always check your owner's handbook and speak to a qualified mechanic before parting with cash.
Warning Lights, explained
That little glowing symbol on your dashboard isn't there to ruin your day — it's the car asking for help. Here's what each one really means, and whether you need to pull over now or just book it in next week.
- #1Investigate soon
Engine Management / Check Engine
Engine isn’t running quite right — get it diagnosed soon.
- #2Stop driving
Oil Pressure Warning
STOP. Low oil pressure can destroy an engine in minutes.
- #3Investigate soon
Battery / Charging Warning
The battery isn’t being charged — you’re running on borrowed time.
- #4Stop driving
Coolant Temperature Warning
Engine overheating — pull over before it cracks the head.
- #5Stop driving
Brake System Warning
Could be the handbrake — or a serious brake fault. Don’t ignore it.
- #6Investigate soon
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Your brakes still work — but the anti-lock safety net is off.
- #7Investigate soon
Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)
One or more tyres are under-pressure — check them today.
- #8Investigate soon
Airbag / SRS Warning
Your airbags may not deploy in a crash. Get it scanned.
- #9Just so you know
Glow Plug (Diesel)
Normal at start-up on a diesel — only a problem if it stays on.
- #10Investigate soon
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Soot filter is clogging — take it for a steady motorway run.
- #11Investigate soon
Power Steering (EPS) Warning
Steering still works — but it’s about to get heavy.
- #12Investigate soon
Traction Control / ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
The car has detected wheel slip or loss of stability — ease off.
- #13Just so you know
Service Due / Oil Life Reminder
Your car is due a routine service — no panic, just book it in.
- #14Just so you know
Low Fuel Warning
You’re running low — but you usually have 30–50 miles of range left.
- #15Just so you know
Door Ajar Warning
A door, boot or bonnet isn’t fully closed — check before driving.
- #16Just so you know
Seatbelt Reminder
Someone hasn’t buckled up — or the sensor thinks they haven’t.
- #17Just so you know
Traction Control Off (Manually Disabled)
You’ve switched traction control off — it’s not a fault.
- #18Investigate soon
AdBlue Low Level Warning
Your diesel needs AdBlue top-up soon — the car will refuse to start if it runs out.
- #19Just so you know
Lane Departure Warning / LDWS
You’re drifting out of your lane without indicating — the system is warning you.
- #20Investigate soon
Forward Collision Warning
The car thinks you’re approaching traffic too fast — brake or steer.
- #21Stop driving
Automatic Gearbox Temperature Warning
The automatic transmission is overheating — stop before permanent damage occurs.
- #22Investigate soon
4WD / AWD Fault Light
The four-wheel-drive system has a fault — you may be running in two-wheel drive.
- #23Stop driving
EV / Hybrid Battery Warning
The high-voltage battery has a fault — this is serious and potentially dangerous.
- #24Investigate soon
Charging Port Not Locked (EV)
The charge port is open or unlocked — you can’t drive with it like this.
- #25Investigate soon
Suspension / Ride Height Warning
The air suspension or adaptive dampers have a fault — handling and comfort will suffer.
- #26Just so you know
Fog Light Reminder (Rear)
Your rear fog light is on — turn it off when visibility improves to avoid dazzling other drivers.
- #27Investigate soon
Immobiliser / Key Warning
Your car doesn't recognise the key — it may not start or could cut out.
- #28Just so you know
Lane Keeping Assist Warning
The system that helps keep you in your lane has been switched off or isn't working.
- #29Investigate soon
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Warning
The car's automatic braking system isn't available or has a fault.
A general guide only — exact symbols vary by make and model. If you’re unsure, check the dashboard section of your owner’s handbook.