Investigate soonamber light
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Warning
The car's automatic braking system isn't available or has a fault.
What it means
An amber or red icon of a car with an impact star or radar waves, sometimes with the letters AEB or BRAKE. The Automatic Emergency Braking system uses forward-facing radar and/or camera to detect obstacles and will apply the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time. If this light is on, AEB is unavailable.
What to do
- 1Clean the front grille, number plate and windscreen where the radar/camera sensors are mounted.
- 2If the light stays on after cleaning, the system may need recalibration — especially after a minor bump or new number plate.
- 3Drive with extra care and larger following distances — you won't get the automatic braking safety net.
- 4Get it diagnosed within a week; AEB faults can sometimes be linked to other sensor issues.
Likely causes
- •Dirty or obstructed radar/camera sensor
- •Sensor misalignment after a bump or new number plate
- •Faulty radar or camera module
- •Software glitch requiring an update
- •Shared ABS/ESC sensor fault affecting AEB calculations
Rough UK cost
Usually free (cleaning). Recalibration: £150–£400. Sensor replacement: £500–£1,500.
Prices are a guide only — always get a written quote before any work.
Heads up: Carautonomy is for general guidance only. If your car is behaving oddly or any red light is on, get it inspected by a qualified mechanic.