Free resource
Dashboard Warning Light Action Guide
A quick reference for common warning lights — what they may mean, whether you can keep driving, and what to do next.
Call 020 7537 2447Woodseer Autos — Dashboard Warning Light Guide
020 7537 2447 · woodseerautos.co.uk · 14 Copenhagen Place, London E14 7DF
Safety first. If a red warning light appears or the vehicle feels unsafe, stop when safe to do so and seek professional help. This guide is general advice — your vehicle handbook is the authoritative source.
Engine management light (amber)
- What it may mean
- The car has detected an emissions or engine fault and stored a code.
- Can I keep driving?
- Usually yes if the car drives normally, but get it diagnosed soon — it will fail MOT if left on.
- What to do next
- Book a diagnostic scan to read the fault code.
Flashing engine management light
- What it may mean
- Serious misfire — fuel can be entering the catalytic converter.
- Can I keep driving?
- No. Pull over safely and stop driving.
- What to do next
- Call a garage for advice and arrange recovery if needed.
ABS warning
- What it may mean
- Anti-lock braking system has a fault — normal brakes still work, ABS may not.
- Can I keep driving?
- With care. Avoid emergency stops where possible.
- What to do next
- Book a diagnostic — often a wheel speed sensor.
Brake warning (red)
- What it may mean
- Low brake fluid, brake pad wear warning, or handbrake on.
- Can I keep driving?
- Check the handbrake is fully released. If light stays on, stop when safe.
- What to do next
- Brakes are safety-critical — call a garage immediately.
Oil pressure (red)
- What it may mean
- Low oil pressure — engine can be damaged in minutes.
- Can I keep driving?
- No. Stop as soon as safe and switch the engine off.
- What to do next
- Check oil level. If correct, do not restart — call for advice.
Battery / charging (red)
- What it may mean
- The battery is not being charged — alternator or belt fault.
- Can I keep driving?
- Limited — battery will eventually go flat. Switch off non-essentials.
- What to do next
- Get it checked the same day.
Airbag / SRS
- What it may mean
- Airbag system fault — airbags may not deploy in a collision.
- Can I keep driving?
- Yes, but safety system is compromised.
- What to do next
- Diagnostic scan — often a seat or buckle sensor.
Tyre pressure (TPMS)
- What it may mean
- One or more tyres below the expected pressure, or a sensor fault.
- Can I keep driving?
- Check pressures at the nearest petrol station before continuing far.
- What to do next
- If pressures are correct, the sensor may need a reset or replacement.
Coolant temperature (red)
- What it may mean
- Engine is overheating — can cause major damage if ignored.
- Can I keep driving?
- No. Pull over and let the engine cool before opening the bonnet.
- What to do next
- Do not top up a hot engine — call for advice.
DPF warning (diesel)
- What it may mean
- Diesel particulate filter is blocked or not regenerating.
- Can I keep driving?
- Often yes briefly — a longer drive may complete a regen, but don't ignore.
- What to do next
- If it doesn't clear, book a DPF check.
AdBlue / SCR (diesel)
- What it may mean
- AdBlue level low, or SCR system fault.
- Can I keep driving?
- Yes, but the car may eventually refuse to restart if ignored.
- What to do next
- Top up AdBlue first, then book a check if the light stays on.
Warning lights — FAQs
Quick answers to common questions.
Share this resource
Free to share, print and link to
Running a local blog, community website, driving school, fleet page or business resource list? You're welcome to link to this free Woodseer Autos guide as a helpful resource for drivers.
Suggested attribution: "Source: Woodseer Autos, independent garage and DVSA-authorised MOT station in Poplar, East London."