Red: stop as soon as it’s safe
- Oil pressure (an oil can): the engine may be running without oil. Stop and switch off.
- Coolant temperature (a thermometer): the engine is overheating. See car overheating.
- Brake warning: low brake fluid or a brake fault. Check the handbrake is off; if the light stays on, don’t drive.
- Battery or charging: the alternator may have failed. The car will run until the battery is flat, then stop.
Amber: get it checked soon
- Engine management: a fault in the engine or emissions system. If it’s flashing, or the car is losing power, stop.
- ABS: normal brakes still work, but the anti-lock system may not.
- Tyre pressure: check the tyres as soon as you can.
- Glow plug or DPF on diesels: check the handbook.
When to call us
If a red warning comes on and stays on, don’t drive on to get home. Pull in somewhere safe and call. We’ll take it home or to your garage. See breakdown recovery.
Check your handbook
Symbols differ between makes. Most handbooks have a page showing every warning light and what to do. Many cars also show a message on the dashboard screen. If you’re unsure and the light is red, treat it as serious and stop.
FAQ
Straight answers
Can I drive with the engine management light on?
If it is steady and the car feels normal, usually yes, carefully, to a garage. If it is flashing or the car is losing power, stop.
What does a red battery light mean while driving?
The car isn’t charging the battery. It will run until the battery is flat, then stop. Head somewhere safe and call.