It can be unsettling when a dashboard warning light appears if you are unsure what it means. These lights come on when your vehicle’s internal systems detect a problem, which could be minor or more serious. Lights are often colour-coded to indicate the urgency, with red needing immediate attention.
Here is an explanation of what the lights mean and the appropriate action to take. Many of these problems can be avoided by ensuring your Motability Scheme car or WAV receives regular maintenance and servicing, all of which are included in your lease.
You also have the reassurance of RAC Motability Assist, available 24/7, on: 0800 731 1173.
Battery
Your car detects that it isn’t receiving enough power from its battery. If the light persists, you’ll need to get it checked by a mechanic to avoid the car breaking down.
Brakes
If this light appears on the move, when your handbrake is off, there's a potential fault with your braking system. This is a serious warning and should be dealt with swiftly.
Airbags
This indicates either a problem with one of the airbags, the occupant classification system, or the seatbelt pre–tensioning system.
Power steering
Your car may still be drivable with a failed power steering system, but it’ll be difficult to turn the wheel quickly and could make emergency manoeuvres dangerous.
Electronic stability program (ESP)
This suggests an issue with the ESP, which uses traction control and anti–lock braking to keep your car under control when slowing down.
Engine temperature
This warns of the engine overheating, which can potentially cause damage. It’s best to stop the car and turn off the engine.
Coolant level
Alerts you if your radiator coolant level drops too low. To prevent the engine from overheating, switch off the engine, allow it to cool and top up if you can.
Oil
If the oil level drops too low, the oil warning light should appear on your dashboard. Stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so. Once cool, top up the oil.
Diesel particulate filter
This indicates a clogged particulate filter. A long drive, while periodically revving the engine, can sometimes clear a less severe blockage.
Low tyre pressure
If one or more of your tyres loses too much air, this warning light will show. The light may also appear if one or more of the tyre pressure sensors have failed.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
This comes on if the ABS system has failed and there is a greater risk of the wheels locking when using emergency braking. It’s best to get this checked by a mechanic.
Brake pad
This light alerts you when it's time to replace worn–out brake pads. Have them replaced as soon as you can at your Motability Scheme dealer.
Engine management light
The on-board computer has detected a fault with the engine or sensors. If this light is yellow, the car is drivable for a short distance. If it is red, stop immediately – as soon as it is safe to do so.
Photos: Serhii Brovko, Pialhovik, Et-Artworks/Getty Images
