What The Warning Symbols Flashing On Your Car’s Dashboard Is Trying to Tell You

There are loads of warning lights and symbols on a car’s dashboard that could flash up to let you know you need to get to a mechanic or advise something needs checking.

They are an everyday sight that could mean the difference between a smooth journey and a costly repair bill.

But how many can you identify? Do you know them all?

Here is your handy guide to recognising what each symbol means and what you need to do about it.

1. Front fog lights turned on

2. Power steering system problems

3. Rear fog lights switched on

4. Low level of windscreen fluid

5. Worn brake pads

6. Cruise control is activated

7. Signalling direction

8. Trouble on light sensor or rain sensor

9. Winter mode

10. Info indicator

11. The diesel auxiliary heater

12. Ice warning

13. Starting system problems

14. The key is not in the car

15. Key low battery

16. Warning distance to another car

17. Indicator to push the clutch

18. Indicator to push the brake pedal

19. Locked steering-wheel

20. Long beam turned on

21. Low tyre pressure

22. Short beam on

23. Problems with headlight / taillights / signals bulbs

24. Problems with brake lights

25. Problems with the particulate filter (DPF)

26. Error – disconnection of the plug from the trailer

27. Air suspension problems

28. Warning for exceeding the lane without signaling (anti sleep system, lane assist)

29. Problems with catalyst

30. Warning for seat belt (belt is not on)

31. Warning parking light

32. Alternator or battery problems

33. Parking sensors turned on

34. Service warning light

35. Adaptive headlights turned on

36. Headlight angle

37. Problems with variable rear spoiler

38. Problems in triggering electric roof

39. Front airbag is switched off

40. Handbrake is pulled on

41. Water in fuel filter

42. Airbag switched off

43. Mechanical problem or electrical error

44. Short beam turned on

45. Dirty air filter requires replacement

46. ECO mode turned on

47. Downhill assist on

48. Cooling system problems

49. Problem with ABS

50. Problems with fuel filter

51. Open door

52. Open bonnet

53. Fuel tank on reserve, need to fill the tank

54. Automatic gearbox problems

55. Speed limiter is on

56. Suspension problems

57. Low oil pressure

58. Front window defroster

59. Open boot

60. Electronic Stability Programme is off

61. Rain sensor

62. Engine problems or hazards

63. Rear window defroster

64. The automatic windscreen wiper