Every warning light explained
Symbols vary a little between makes. If you’re not sure, check your owner’s manual or send us a photo.
Amber light · Get it checked
Check engine light
What it means: Your engine computer has logged a fault. It could be something small like a loose fuel cap or a worn spark plug, or a sensor, ignition or emissions problem.
Is it safe to drive? Usually yes for a short time if the light is steady and the car drives normally. If it is flashing, the engine is misfiring: slow down and stop driving as soon as it is safe, as this can damage the catalytic converter.
How we fix it: We plug in a diagnostic scanner on-site, read the fault codes and tell you what they mean before any work starts.
Red light · Stop when safe
Battery or charging light
What it means: Your car is not charging properly. The most common causes are a failing alternator, a slipping or broken drive belt, or a worn battery.
Is it safe to drive? Not for long. The car is running on battery power alone and may stop without warning once it runs flat. Turn off the air-con and radio and head somewhere safe.
How we fix it: We test the battery, alternator and belt at your location and replace whichever part has failed, usually in the same visit.
Red light · Stop when safe
Oil pressure light
What it means: Oil pressure has dropped too low to protect the engine. You may be very low on oil, or the oil pump or sensor may have failed.
Is it safe to drive? No. Pull over and switch the engine off as soon as it is safe. Driving on without oil pressure can wreck an engine in minutes.
How we fix it: We come to you, check the oil level and pressure, top up or find the leak, and tell you whether it is safe to drive.
Red light · Stop when safe
Engine temperature light
What it means: The engine is overheating. Common causes are low coolant, a leaking or blocked radiator, a failed thermostat or a broken fan.
Is it safe to drive? No. Pull over, switch off and let it cool. Never open the radiator cap while hot, as the coolant is under pressure and can burn you.
How we fix it: We pressure-test the cooling system on-site and repair or replace the radiator, hoses or thermostat.
Red light · Stop when safe
Brake system light
What it means: First check the handbrake is fully off. If it is, your brake fluid may be low, usually because the pads are worn or there is a leak.
Is it safe to drive? Drive carefully to a safe spot only if the brakes feel normal. If the pedal feels soft or goes to the floor, stop and call us.
How we fix it: We inspect pads, rotors and fluid at your home or work and replace what is worn.
Amber light · Get it checked
ABS light
What it means: The anti-lock braking system has a fault, often a dirty or failed wheel speed sensor. Your normal brakes still work.
Is it safe to drive? Yes, with care. Your brakes will work, but the wheels can lock under hard braking, especially in the wet. Leave extra distance and get it checked soon.
How we fix it: We scan the ABS module, find the faulty sensor or wiring, and fix it on the spot.
Amber light · Get it checked
Tyre pressure light
What it means: One or more tyres is low on air, or you have a slow puncture.
Is it safe to drive? Slow down and check your tyres at the next servo. If a tyre is visibly flat or the car pulls to one side, stop and change it or call us.
How we fix it: We fit your spare or repair the tyre where you are, and reset the tyre pressure system.
Red light · Stop when safe
Airbag (SRS) light
What it means: The airbag system has found a fault, often a seat belt buckle sensor, a clock spring or a connector under a seat.
Is it safe to drive? The car will drive normally, but your airbags may not go off in a crash. Get it checked as soon as possible.
How we fix it: We read the airbag fault codes on-site and tell you exactly what needs fixing.