Dashboard Light Mystery?

Snap a photo of the light. Our AI will identify it for you.

Dashboard Lights Guide

ABS Fault

Anti-lock brake system issue

Common Causes:

  • Faulty wheel speed sensor
  • Low brake fluid
  • Damaged sensor wiring
  • Failing ABS control module

Solutions:

Your normal brakes will still work, but ABS will not engage in an emergency stop. Drive cautiously and have the system checked by a professional.

AdBlue Fault

Diesel exhaust fluid issue

Common Causes:

  • AdBlue tank is empty
  • Incorrect fluid used
  • System sensor malfunction
  • Nozzle or pump failure

Solutions:

Refill the AdBlue tank. If the light persists, the SCR system needs professional diagnosis. Do not ignore this light, as the vehicle may enter a limp mode or refuse to start.

Airbag Fault

Safety system malfunction

Common Causes:

  • Faulty sensor
  • Damaged clockspring
  • Seat occupancy sensor issue
  • Previous accident data not cleared

Solutions:

The airbag system may not deploy in a crash. This requires professional diagnosis. Do not attempt to repair yourself.

Blind Spot Monitor

Vehicle in blind spot or system fault

Common Causes:

A light on the side mirrors illuminates when a vehicle is in your blind spot. A warning light on the dashboard indicates a fault. The sensors in the rear bumper may be dirty or blocked.

Solutions:

Clean the sensor areas on the rear bumper. If the fault light remains, professional service is needed.

Brake System

Brake fluid or parking brake issue

Common Causes:

  • Parking brake is engaged
  • Low brake fluid level
  • Worn brake pads
  • ABS module failure

Solutions:

Ensure parking brake is disengaged. Check brake fluid . If low, top up and get brakes inspected for leaks.

Check Engine

Potential engine or emission issue

Common Causes:

  • Loose gas cap
  • Failing oxygen sensor
  • Worn spark plugs
  • Catalytic converter failure

Solutions:

Tighten gas cap first. If light persists, use an OBD-II scanner to read the error code.

Collision Warning

Brake immediately or system fault

Common Causes:

  • Flashing/Audible Alert: A collision is imminent. Brake immediately.
  • Solid "OFF" or Fault Light: The system is disabled or has a fault.

Solutions:

If a fault is indicated, clean the sensor area (grille or windshield). If the light persists, the system needs professional calibration or repair.

DPF Light (Diesel)

Diesel filter needs regeneration

Common Causes:

The Diesel Particulate Filter is full of soot, often due to too many short, low-speed journeys.

Solutions:

Drive the car for 15-20 minutes at a steady speed of over 40 mph (65 km/h) to allow the system to "regenerate". If the light persists, it requires a forced regeneration at a garage.

Door Ajar

A door, trunk, or hood is open

Common Causes:

One of the vehicle's doors, the trunk/hatch, or the hood is not securely closed.

Solutions:

Check all doors, the hood, and the trunk to ensure they are fully latched. If the light remains on, a door sensor may be faulty.

Engine Overheating

Engine temperature is too high

Common Causes:

  • Low coolant level
  • Thermostat failure
  • Cooling fan malfunction
  • Leaking radiator or hoses

Solutions:

Pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Do NOT open the radiator cap when hot. Allow the engine to cool completely before checking coolant levels. Tow if necessary to prevent severe engine damage.

Glow Plug (Diesel)

Pre-heating or fault

Common Causes:

  • On then Off: Normal operation. Wait for the light to go out before starting the engine.
  • Flashing or Stays On: There is a fault with the glow plug system.

Solutions:

If faulty, the engine may be difficult to start, especially in cold weather. This requires professional diagnosis.

Lane Departure

Drifting out of lane

Common Causes:

  • Amber/Flashing: The vehicle is drifting over lane markings without the turn signal activated.
  • Off/Fault: The system is turned off or has a fault.

Solutions:

If flashing, steer back to the center of your lane. If there is a fault, ensure the camera area on the windshield is clean.

Low Fuel Level

Time to visit a gas station

Common Causes:

The fuel tank is nearly empty.

Solutions:

Refuel the vehicle as soon as possible. Consistently running the tank to empty can damage the fuel pump.

Oil Pressure Low

Stop driving immediately

Common Causes:

  • Low oil level
  • Failing oil pump
  • Clogged oil filter
  • Faulty oil pressure sensor

Solutions:

Pull over safely and turn off the engine. Check oil level. If low, add the correct type of engine oil . If level is fine, do not restart engine. Tow to a mechanic.

Power Steering Fault

Issue with steering assistance

Common Causes:

  • Low power steering fluid
  • Failing power steering pump
  • Leaking hose
  • Electrical fault (for EPAS systems)

Solutions:

Steering will become very heavy. Check fluid levels. If the issue is electrical, a system reset (turning the car off and on) may temporarily help. Professional service is required.

Ready to Drive (EV)

Electric vehicle is on

Common Causes:

This is the equivalent of a running engine in a gasoline car. Because electric vehicles are silent, this light confirms the vehicle is on and will move when the accelerator is pressed.

Solutions:

No action needed. This is a normal status indicator.

Seat Belt Reminder

Fasten seat belt

Common Causes:

The driver or a front passenger has not fastened their seat belt.

Solutions:

Ensure all occupants are properly buckled up.

Start-Stop System Fault

Automatic start/stop unavailable

Common Causes:

  • Battery charge is too low
  • Engine is not at operating temperature
  • Climate control is working hard
  • A system fault has been detected

Solutions:

Often, this is not a fault but an indication that conditions aren't right for the system to activate. A long drive may recharge the battery. If the light persists, have the battery and system checked.

Tire Pressure (TPMS)

One or more tires are low

Common Causes:

  • Natural air loss over time
  • Puncture from nail or screw
  • Faulty valve stem
  • Drastic temperature change

Solutions:

Check all tire pressures with a reliable pressure gauge . Inflate to the recommended PSI found on the driver's side door jamb sticker.

Traction Control

System is active or has a fault

Common Causes:

  • Flashing: The system is actively preventing wheel spin on a slippery surface. This is normal.
  • Solid On: The system has been manually turned off or has a fault.

Solutions:

If flashing, reduce throttle. If solid, check if you accidentally pressed the TCS/ESC button. If it stays on, it may share a fault with the ABS system and needs diagnosis.

Washer Fluid Low

Time for a top-up

Common Causes:

The washer fluid reservoir is nearly empty from normal use.

Solutions:

Locate the washer fluid reservoir under the hood. Refill with appropriate washer fluid .

From the Blog

Image illustrating the concept of 5 DIY Car Repairs That Will Save You Hundreds

5 DIY Car Repairs That Will Save You Hundreds

Save hundreds on car repairs! Learn 5 easy DIY fixes: air filter, wipers, headlights, fluids, & tire pressure. Get tips & save money today!

 Image illustrating the concept of Decoding Your Check Engine Light: A Simple Guide to Car Diagnostics

Decoding Your Check Engine Light: A Simple Guide to Car Diagnostics

Troubleshoot your check engine light! Learn common causes, how to use an OBD-II scanner, and prevent future issues. Get expert car diagnostic tips now.

 Image illustrating the concept of Top 10 Car Maintenance Myths Debunked

Top 10 Car Maintenance Myths Debunked

Debunk 10 common car maintenance myths! Learn the truth about oil changes, premium gas, tire pressure, and more. Save money & keep your car running smoothly. Read now!
View All Posts →

PERPETUAL BANNER ADVERTISEMENT