An unfamiliar warning? Create an observation card
Record the message and circumstances without guessing its meaning from color alone.
2uto / Vehicle signalsA warning light appeared?
A warning light appeared?
Understand it before you move.
The symbol, message and how it appeared. Three details to help you understand the next step and explain the problem clearly.
Read the guide once you have stopped somewhere safe.01 / Stop safely
Critical warnings or serious symptoms
Oil pressure, overheating or reduced braking? Read the specific warning instructions and seek assistance.
02 / Understand the signal
Steady or flashing?
Flashing and accompanying messages may change the response. Colour alone is not enough.
03 / Check the instructions
Your owner’s manual is the reference
These symbols are illustrative. Symbols and instructions can vary by model and year.
Transmission light: the display message determines the next step
A transmission warning may appear as a gear symbol, AT or a temperature message. Read the full text; stopping and cooling instructions vary by transmission.
TPMS tyre-pressure light: check before resetting
TPMS illumination may mean low pressure, while flashing followed by steady illumination may indicate a monitoring fault. Measure pressure before clearing the warning.
Temperature light: read the warning before continuing
A red temperature warning or overheating message differs from a cold-engine indicator. Do not open the cooling-system cap while hot.
Oil light: distinguish pressure from level
A red oil-pressure warning with the engine running requires stopping and switching off the engine; a normal oil level does not establish normal pressure.
EPC light: understand the engine power-management warning
EPC appears in some Volkswagen Group vehicles and may accompany reduced response. It does not automatically mean the throttle body needs replacement.
Check Engine light: steady or flashing?
A steady engine light differs from a flashing one. Shaking, reduced power or an unusual smell increase the priority of stopping and inspection.
Brake light: parking brake or fault warning?
A red warning remaining after releasing the parking brake, or a change in pedal feel, requires stopping safely and seeking assistance.
Battery light while driving: inspect the charging system
The battery symbol with the engine running may indicate a charging fault; buying a new battery alone may not address the cause.
Airbag warning light: do not ignore the protection system
An SRS or airbag warning needs inspection without delay. The PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF indicator has a different meaning.
ABS warning light: what changes in braking?
An anti-lock braking fault needs prompt inspection. A red brake warning alongside it, or weak braking, requires stopping.