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Understanding Dashboard Warning Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for South African Drivers
Understanding Dashboard Warning Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for South African Drivers

Understanding Dashboard Warning Lights: A Comprehensive Guide for South African Drivers

13 February 2025
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Dashboard Warning Lights – Engine Check Lights – Fault Codes: Your Complete Guide

Understanding Dashboard Warning Light Colours

warnicons car dashboard english

Your vehicle communicates through coloured indicators – here’s what they mean:

Red Warning Lights: Immediate Action Required

These indicate critical issues needing immediate attention. Examples include:

  • Engine overheating
  • Brake system failure
  • Low oil pressure
  • Airbag system faults

What to do: Safely pull over and seek immediate assistance.

Orange/Yellow Warning Lights: Service Needed Soon

These signal system faults that require professional diagnosis:

  • Check Engine light
  • ABS system issues
  • Low tire pressure
  • Emission control problems

What to do: Schedule service within 48-72 hours.

Green/Blue Lights: System Status Indicators

These show active systems:

  • Headlights on
  • Cruise control engaged
  • Winter mode activated

Critical Warning Lights You Must Never Ignore

Oil Pressure Warning (Red)

Immediately stop driving to prevent engine damage

Battery/Alternator Alert (Red)

Electrical system failure – limited driving capability

Brake System Warning (Red)

Potential brake failure – stop immediately

Complete Dashboard Symbols Guide

Dashboard warning lights visual guide

1-16: Fog lights, power steering, washer fluid, cruise control

17-32: Clutch/brake alerts, tire pressure, airbag system

33-48: Parking assist, service reminders, roof/convertible alerts

49-64: ABS warnings, fuel alerts, stability control

📘 Always consult your vehicle’s manual for model-specific symbol interpretations

When a Warning Light Activates: Immediate Steps

  1. Assess Urgency:
    • Red lights = Stop driving immediately
    • Orange lights = Schedule service ASAP
  2. Diagnose:
    • Use code scanners for initial diagnosis
    • Note driving conditions when light activated
  3. Professional Help:
    • Our technicians at Motordeal Premium can:
      • Read advanced fault codes
      • Perform system diagnostics
      • Implement manufacturer-approved repairs

Understanding Fault Codes

Modern vehicles generate specific codes when issues occur:

P-Codes (Powertrain)

Engine/transmission issues

C-Codes (Chassis)

ABS/Stability control problems

B-Codes (Body)

Airbag/comfort system faults

Dashboard Warning Lights 1-64: Complete Meanings

1. Fog Light (Front)

2. Power steering warning light

3. Fog Light (Rear)

4. Washer fluid low

5. Brake Pad Warning

6. Cruise Control on

7. Direction Indicators

8. Rain and Light Sensor

9. Winter mode

10. Information Indicator

11. Glow Plug / Diesel Preheat Warning

12. Frost Warning

13. Ignition Switch Warning

14. Key not in vehicle

15. Key fob battery low

16. Distance Warning

17. Press clutch pedal

18. Press brake pedal

19. Steering lock warning

20. Main beam headlights

21. Tyre pressure low

22. Sidelight information

23. Exterior light fault

24. Brake lights warning

25. Diesel particulate filter warning

26. Trailer tow hitch warning

27. Air suspension warning

28. Lane departure warning

29. Catalytic converter warning

30. Seat belt not on

31. Parking brake light

32. Battery / Alternator warning

33. Parking assist

34. Service required

35. Adaptive lighting

36. Headlight range control

37. Rear spoiler warning

38. Convertible roof warning

39. Airbag warning

40. Handbrake warning

41. Water in fuel filter

42. Airbag deactivated

43. Fault problem

44. Dipped beam headlights

45. Dirty air filter

46. Eco driving indicator

47. Hill descent control

48. Temperature warning

49. ABS warning

50. Fuel filter warning

51. Door open

52. Bonnet open

53. Low fuel

54. Automatic gearbox warning

55. Speed limit

56. Suspension dampers

57. Oil pressure low

58. Windscreen defrost

59. Boot open

60. Stability control off

61. Rain sensor

62. Engine / Emissions warning

63. Rear window defrost

64. Auto windscreen wiping

Note: Symbols may vary slightly between vehicle manufacturers. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific interpretations.

Why Professional Diagnosis Matters

  • Advanced diagnostic equipment
  • Manufacturer-specific code interpretation
  • Complete system resets after repair

Don’t Risk Vehicle Safety

Our certified technicians provide:

  • Complete diagnostic services
  • Genuine parts replacement
  • System reprogramming
  • Pre-repair consultations

📞 Emergency Assistance: 016 981 2220

© 2025 Motordeal Premium. All rights reserved.

Trusted automotive care since 1975

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