Dashboard warning lights: what you need to know
Your vehicle’s dashboard warning lights are designed to provide you with information and to warn when there may be an issue with your vehicle. They use a colour system, similar to traffic lights.
It’s normal for some of these lights to briefly appear when you start your engine, however If they remain on, you should seek advice and assistance before starting your journey. If a light comes on while you are driving, it’s important to understand what it means and take the right action.
For more information specific to your vehicle please check your instruction manual or contact the manufacturer.
The three types of warning lights
Red warning lights
A red warning light means there may be a serious fault with your vehicle. Do not begin a journey with a red warning light showing. If one appears while you are driving:
- Do not stop in a live lane unless absolutely necessary
If you can safely drive your vehicle, continue to the next junction or service area to seek help.
If you cannot leave the carriageway:
- move into the left lane
- pull into an emergency area, layby, or hard shoulder
Follow the breakdown advice on our ‘Driving on Motorways’ page
Amber warning lights
An amber warning light is advisory and suggests that your vehicle needs maintenance or checking. You should not set off on a journey with an amber warning light showing. If one appears while driving:
- Do not stop in a live lane unless absolutely necessary
If you can safely drive your vehicle, continue to the next junction or service area to seek help.
If you cannot leave the carriageway:
- move into the left lane
- pull into an emergency area, layby, or hard shoulder
Follow the breakdown advice on our ‘Driving on Motorways’ page
Green, White or Blue warning lights: Information only
These lights provide general information about your vehicle. You do not need to stop if these appear, but it's a good habit to find out what they mean at your next planned stop.
Getting to know your dashboard warning lights
If you are purchasing a new vehicle or hiring a vehicle that you are not familiar with, take time to familiarise yourself with the controls and dashboard lights before driving.
For more information on what you should do if you break down visit our ‘Driving on Motorways’ page.
For advice on how you can carry out simple vehicle checks visit our ’How to check your vehicle’ page.
By understanding what each type of dashboard warning light means, you can make informed decisions that help to keep you, your passengers, and other road users as safe as possible.
