Dashboard Warning Lights Explained: Red, Amber and Green in Your Car

A dashboard warning light is a message about attention, not a decoration. Colour gives you a useful first clue, but the symbol, flashing pattern and owner’s manual determine the correct action.

Red warning lights: stop and assess

Red commonly indicates a condition that may require immediate attention, such as low oil pressure, overheating, brake-system trouble or a charging-system fault. Safely stop as soon as possible, switch off the engine if the manual instructs you to do so, and seek help if the light remains on or flashes.

Do not open a hot cooling system. Do not continue driving simply because the car still feels normal. Some serious faults develop faster than a driver can feel them.

Amber or yellow warning lights: investigate soon

Amber often indicates a system that needs checking, such as engine management, ABS, tyre-pressure monitoring, traction control or a service reminder. The car may remain driveable, but that does not mean the fault is harmless. Read the manual and arrange a diagnostic check, especially if the light flashes, the vehicle loses power or braking/steering behaviour changes.

Green or blue lights: information

Green and blue indicators commonly show that a function is active, such as headlights, cruise control or a temperature-related system. They are usually informational, but the exact meaning varies by vehicle.

Five warning-light habits that prevent mistakes

1. Notice whether the lamp is steady or flashing.
2. Read the exact message on the driver display.
3. Check whether the vehicle feels different: power loss, overheating, vibration, smoke or unusual braking.
4. Take a photo of the symbol while safely parked for a technician.
5. Use the exact owner’s manual for the model and year.

Can I reset a warning light myself?

Resetting a light without fixing the underlying fault only hides information. A tyre-pressure light may need correct pressures and a relearn procedure; an engine light may need diagnostic testing; an airbag or ABS light needs professional attention. Do not remove bulbs, disconnect systems or use a cheap reset as a substitute for diagnosis.

When is it unsafe to continue?

Stop driving and request assistance for overheating, low oil-pressure warnings, brake warnings, charging failure with worsening electrical symptoms, smoke, fuel smell, severe loss of power or any change in steering or braking.

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Information checked: 27 August 2026. Further reading: Arrive Alive vehicle-safety guidance. Warning symbols vary by manufacturer; consult the exact vehicle manual.