Seeing a light come on is stressful. This guide gives you a calm routine. Then use the Lights tab to find the exact light.
- Stay calm and keep control. Do not brake hard unless you must.
- Note the colour and, if you can, the symbol. Red or flashing means act now. Amber means act soon.
- If the light is red, or the car feels wrong (strange noise, smell, smoke, loss of power, odd steering or brakes), indicate, slow down and pull over somewhere safe. Hazard lights on, engine off.
- If it is amber and the car feels normal, ease off, avoid hard driving and heavy loads, and stop at the next safe place to look it up.
Easy things to check first
If it fits the light: doors, boot and bonnet fully closed, seat belts fastened, fuel cap tight, handbrake released, tyres look normal.
Good to know
Most lights flash on for a second or two when you start the car. That is a normal self-check. A flashing light is usually more serious than the same light steady.
Tip. Do not drive a long way with a red light on. If you are not sure, stop safely and contact your dealer.
If unsure, stop safely and contact your dealer.
Written in our own words from public sources and owner experience. Not taken from any manual.