Symbol finder
Match the shape, then read the color. A steady amber light and a red oil light are not the same kind of problem.
Check engine light
The engine computer stored a fault. The car may drive normally or may run rough.
Can you drive? Usually yes if steady; no if flashing.
Check soonTire pressure light
One or more tires may be low, overfilled, or the TPMS needs a reset after service.
Can you drive? Short drive only after confirming tire pressure.
Check soonABS light
Anti-lock braking may be disabled, while normal braking may still work.
Can you drive? Usually yes, with extra caution.
Check soonTraction control light
Traction or stability control is active or has a fault.
Can you drive? Yes if steady, but with reduced stability support.
Check soonPower steering light
Electric power steering assistance may be reduced.
Can you drive? Only if steering feels normal.
Check soonStop-start warning light
Automatic engine stop-start is unavailable or has a fault.
Can you drive? Yes.
Check soon4WD indicator light
Four-wheel-drive mode is active, changing, or unable to engage.
Can you drive? Depends on mode and road surface.
Check soonWrench or service light
The vehicle wants maintenance or has a powertrain/service reminder.
Can you drive? Usually yes if no drivability problem.
When to act
Stop safely for oil pressure, brake, coolant temperature, battery charging, or airbag warnings.
Check soon. The car may drive, but the fault should not be ignored.
A feature is active, such as lane assist, lights, or cruise-related systems.
Information, most often high beams. Adjust it for other drivers.
| Light | System | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Check engine light | Engine | Tighten the fuel cap if it was just opened. If the light flashes or the engine shakes, reduce speed and arrange service. |
| Tire pressure light | Tires | Check all tires when cold and set them to the door-jamb PSI. Recheck after driving. |
| ABS light | Brakes | Brake gently and schedule a diagnostic. Be more careful on wet or loose roads. |
| Traction control light | Stability | If it blinks briefly, the system is working. If it stays on, check the manual and drive gently. |
| Power steering light | Steering | Steer carefully and stop if steering becomes heavy. Restart once if the manual allows it. |
| Stop-start warning light | Start-stop | Check battery condition, hood/door status, and climate load. It is usually not urgent. |
| 4WD indicator light | Drivetrain | Avoid dry pavement if locked 4WD is engaged. Check the selector and road condition. |
| Wrench or service light | Service | Check the message display and maintenance minder. Service soon if performance changes. |
Warning light pages
Common questions
Why did several warning lights come on at once?
A weak battery, wheel-speed sensor fault, or communication problem can trigger several systems. Read the stored codes before replacing random parts.
Can I drive with a yellow warning light?
Often yes, but it depends on the symbol. Drive gently and schedule a check if the light stays on, flashes, or the car feels different.
Which warning lights mean stop now?
Oil pressure, coolant temperature, brake, charging, and flashing check-engine lights should be treated as stop-safely warnings.