As vehicles have become more complex, the number of different dashboard warning lights has grown significantly. Modern electronic systems like airbags or stability control are constantly self-testing and it is important for you to know whether a warning light requires immediate attention or whether you can continue your journey and bring the vehicle in later. If a warning light comes on, or fails to extinguish after you have started the engine, you should stop as soon as possible in a safe place. Many warning lights are specific to the vehicle make or even the model. The vehicle handbook should give you a detailed explanation of their meaning and the action to take.

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Oil pressure Warning Light

This light should illuminate when the ignition is switched on and should extinguish as soon as the engine starts. If the light stays on after starting or illuminates during a journey, stop immediately, switch off the engine and check the engine oil level. It is important to keep the proper amount of oil in your vehicle. The oil helps to lubricate the parts of the engine so the vehicle runs more efficiently.

The Battery Charge Light

This light should illuminate when the ignition is switched on and should extinguish as soon as the engine starts. If it does not illuminate at all, or if it illuminates while driving, your battery is not being charged as there is a fault with your charging system. This may be due to a broken or loose alternator drive belt, or alternator failure. If the drive belt is broken, it must be replaced before you restart the engine. The coolant system may rely on this belt and its failure could cause the engine to overheat, in turn causing engine damage.

Brake System warning light illuminated

This light will remain illuminated when the handbrake is engaged. Illumination after releasing the handbrake may indicate low brake fluid level. Refer the handbook and add the correct brake fluid at once to bring the level up to the max mark. As the brakes wear the fluid level will slowly drop. Check your brake fluid level frequently to ensure there is no further rapid loss of fluid. If the brake fluid is too low and brake pedal travel is distinctly longer than usual, one of the two hydraulic brake circuits may have failed.

Engine Warning Light

This light illuminates when the ignition is switched on. It should extinguish as soon as the engine starts. If it illuminates with the engine running, it indicates a malfunction with the engine management system. To keep the vehicle running efficiently, have this checked as soon as possible. If it flashes when driving, reduce the vehicle speed immediately until the light illuminates constantly. If it continues to flash, avoid heavy acceleration and high engine speed, stop the vehicle and have it checked immediately. If it is safe to do so, try stopping the vehicle, switching off the engine, wait two minutes, then restarting the engine to reset the engine management system. If you notice any light illuminate on your vehicle, it is always best to bring it in as soon as possible so we can inspect it for you.