A yellow light that looks like a petrol pump with a cross or line over it means the fuel light coming on. The remaining range will vary depending on the driving style. It would be best to head to a petrol station as soon as possible.
Coolant Temperature Warning Light
A red light with a thermometer on it indicates the coolant temperature is high, and can mean either insufficient coolant, or a sensor issue. Check your coolant levels first, and refill if required, and if they are correct. In this instance, it is best to get your car checked by a mechanic.
Oil Warning Light
A red light with an oil can image appears when the engine oil pressure is too low. If the oil pressure is too low, the oil is not being pumped around your engine correctly and can cause severe engine damage. If the oil light comes on while you are driving, pull over and switch off the engine immediately and contact your mechanic. Do not drive the car with the oil light on.
Parking Brake Warning Light
A red light with a circle around a ‘P’ inside it and an exclamation mark underneath comes on when the parking brake is applied or if it is not fully released. The light should automatically turn off when the parking brake is released. If it does not, there may be a fault with the switch. Ensure the brake is fully released and contact a mechanic if the light remains lit.
Battery Warning Light
A red light with a battery symbol indicates a problem with the battery or the charging system. This could be a loose battery connection or a problem with the alternator or starter motor and means that the car battery is not being properly charged. Try turning off your engine then restarting it. If the light goes off, it was probably a temporary problem. If the light remains on, the car will continue to run on the power stored in the battery, but when the battery is flat, it will not restart and you will need to call for roadside assistance.
Brake Fluid Warning Light
A red light of an exclamation mark inside a circle means that the brake fluid is low. The brake fluid, which is vital to the operation of the brakes, gradually evaporates over time. Ensure the brake fluid is topped up to the correct level. If the light comes on again it is essential that you investigate further and have the brakes checked.
Engine Warning Light
A yellow or orange light depicting an engine indicates an engine control problem. The engine management light can mean one of almost forty different engine malfunctions. Take the car to a garage as soon as possible to get the fault codes read. Driving a car with the engine light on should not cause damage to the engine, however, it may impact the performance and emission output.
Service Reminder Light or ‘Spanner’ Light
A yellow light which looks like a wrench, spanner, or the letters ‘SRV’ indicates that the car is due for a scheduled service. When the car is taken for a service, the mechanic typically resets the service reminder.
Airbag Light
A yellow light with the silhouette of a person in a circle will display if there is a problem with the airbag. Ensure passengers and children sit well back from the dashboard, and seek mechanic advice or assistance.
Brake or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
A circle with the letters ABS inside, surrounded by brackets will come on if there is a problem with the ABS, preventing the wheels from locking up. Take the car to a garage as soon as possible to investigate further.
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
A yellow light displaying the letters ‘ESP’ or an image of a skidding car will come on if the ESP is not working correctly, which could be dangerous during icy conditions. Seek advice or assistance from a mechanic as soon as possible.
