Your Safety Guide
Discover what your Saab's dashboard is trying to tell you. We've compiled a comprehensive list of warning lights, their meanings, and visuals to keep you informed and secure on the road. Don't let those mysterious symbols catch you off guard – scroll down to become a Saab dashboard expert!
Understanding Your Saab's Warning Lights
Your Saab's dashboard is its way of communicating with you. Each light serves a purpose, from minor alerts to critical warnings. Familiarize yourself with these signals to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience.
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Saab Transmission Temperature Warning LightThe transmission temperature warning light indicates that the transmission oil temperature is excessively high, risking transmission failure. This light is often displayed in red but may appear yellow/amber in some vehicles. If this light comes on, take immediate action by safely pulling over and letting the transmission cool down to prevent further damage. |
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Saab Electronic Throttle Control Warning LightThe Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) light means there is a problem with the electronic system of the accelerator pedal. This light is usually represented by a lightning bolt symbol. If the light stays on, you should have it checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Do not continue driving if the light remains illuminated, as it can lead to further damage and safety hazards. |
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Saab Oil Change Reminder Warning LightThe Oil Change Reminder Light indicates that your vehicle needs an oil change or top-up. If the light stays on after topping up or comes back on quickly, it may indicate a more serious issue such as a leak or oil pump problem. Check your oil levels and top up if necessary, and schedule an oil change if the light persists. Driving with low oil pressure can cause significant engine damage. |
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Saab Engine Air Filter Warning LightThe "Clogged Air Filter" warning light indicates that the air filter is blocked and needs replacement. Replace the air filter immediately to prevent further engine issues. Prompt action will help maintain your vehicle's efficiency and prevent more serious problems. |
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Saab Electric Parking Brake Warning LightThe Parking Brake Warning Light indicates that the parking brake is engaged or there's an issue with the braking system. It turns on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switched on and should turn off when the parking brake is released. If the light remains on after the parking brake is deactivated, it signals a problem. The light will flash if there's a fault with the Electric Parking Brake (EPB). You should have this checked immediately to ensure safety. It is crucial to address this issue before driving to prevent damage to brake components and ensure proper braking functionality. |
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Saab Coolant Temperature Warning LightThe Engine Temperature Warning Light means your engine is overheating due to low engine coolant. Open the bonnet and check the coolant level. If the vehicle has been running for a long time, wait at least 30 minutes, then open the reservoir and add coolant if necessary. It is recommended to seek support from an experienced mechanic as soon as possible. A leak in the reservoir or pipes is often the cause of low coolant levels. You should have it checked and repaired to prevent further damage. |
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Saab Lane Departure Warning LightThe Lane Departure Warning light indicates that your vehicle is drifting out of its lane unintentionally. If this light appears, check your position on the road and steer back into your lane immediately. |
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Saab Seat Belt Reminder Warning LightThe seatbelt warning light, indicated by a picture of a passenger with a band across them in front of a red light, means that the passenger seatbelt is not properly fastened. This system detects passengers based on weight, so remove any heavy objects like shopping or luggage from the seat. An audio alert may also activate when the car is in motion. |
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Saab Turn Signal Indicator LightThe flashing arrow on your dashboard indicates that your turn signal is active. Check that the correct turn signal is on for the direction you intend to turn. |
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Saab Blind Spot Indicator Warning LightThe Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) warning light indicates a vehicle is in your blind spot. When a vehicle is detected, a steady light appears on the side mirror. If you signal a turn with a vehicle in the blind spot, the light will flash to alert you. |
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Saab Forward Collision Warning (FCW) LightThe Forward Collision Warning (FCW) light indicates a potential frontal collision when your vehicle speed is 10 mph (15 km/h) or higher and a vehicle is detected in front of you. If the light blinks and a beep sounds continuously, brake immediately to avoid a collision. |
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Saab Service Stop Start System Warning LightThe Auto Start/Stop System Warning Light indicates a problem with the system that automatically stops and restarts the engine. If the light is on or flashing, have your vehicle inspected by an authorized dealer as soon as possible. |
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Saab Power Steering Fault Warning LightThe power steering light indicates a problem with the power steering system. When this light comes on, it could mean low power steering fluid or an electrical fault in electronic power steering systems. You should pull over to check it out and consult your vehicle's manual for guidance. If the issue persists, have your car inspected by a professional mechanic to identify and fix the problem. |
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Saab Gearbox Clutch Warning LightThe gearbox warning light indicates a transmission malfunction. If this light appears, press the brake pedal and reselect the gear. If the issue persists, contact the nearest service centre for assistance. |
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Saab Engine Oil Pressure Warning LightA red Aladdin's lamp style icon indicates low engine oil pressure. This can be due to a leak or oil burning within the engine. You should not continue driving the vehicle until the issue is resolved. Driving with low oil pressure can cause serious engine damage due to lack of lubrication and potential overheating. |
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Saab Hood Open Warning LightThe hood open warning light indicates that the hood of your vehicle is not properly closed. Check the hood by opening it fully and closing it again with some force to ensure the mechanism locks. Driving with a loose hood can be very dangerous as it could fly open at speed and cause significant damage. |
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Saab Brake Pads Warning LightThe brake pad warning light, typically represented by a circle inside dotted brackets or an exclamation mark, indicates that your brake pads are worn out or nearing the end of their lifespan. You should schedule a brake service appointment to replace the brake pads as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain safe braking performance. |
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Saab Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning LightThe Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) light indicates a problem with the ACC system, such as an unsafe following distance or faulty sensors. Stop the car safely and have the system checked by a professional mechanic. |
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Saab Battery Charge Warning LightThe battery-shaped warning light indicates a problem with the Charging System. This means either the battery is not accepting a charge or the alternator is failing to provide enough power. If this light is on, your vehicle will eventually stop running due to a dead battery. You should turn off unnecessary electrical accessories and get to a mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose and repair the issue. |
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Saab Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning LightIf you see the Low Fuel or Loose Gas Cap symbol, it indicates that your gas cap may be loose. You should check your vehicle's gas cap immediately. If you ignore this light, the Check Engine light may come on next. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and make sure the gas cap is tightened properly. A loose gas cap is an air or vacuum leak. Check that the cap’s seal is good and replace the cap if the seal is cracked or otherwise damaged. Ensure the cap is tightened securely to avoid further issues. |
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Saab Immobilizer Warning LightThe immobilizer warning light indicates a problem with the anti-theft system, which prevents the engine from starting without the correct key. If this light appears on your dashboard, your car may not start. You should seek assistance from a qualified technician to diagnose and repair the issue. |
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Saab Check Engine Warning LightThe Check Engine Light has come on. This indicates a possible emission control malfunction. If the light is solid, check the fuel filler cap is not loose or missing. If the light is flashing, an engine misfire has been detected which could damage the emission control system. If the light stays on after several drives, have the system checked. It is recommended to visit a professional mechanic for this service. If the issue persists, do not ignore it to avoid further damage. |
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Saab ABS Warning LightThe ABS warning light, featuring the letters 'ABS' in a circle, indicates a malfunction in the Anti-lock Braking System. Despite this, the brakes may still function normally without ABS assistance. It is recommended to seek help from a trained mechanic or dealership as soon as possible. |
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Saab Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning LightThe TPMS warning light signals low tire pressure or a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. When the light is on continuously, it indicates low tire pressure. Stop driving and check the pressure of all four tires, adjusting them to the recommended levels. If the light flashes for 1 minute and then stays on, it indicates a TPMS system issue. |
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Saab Door Open Warning LightThe door-open warning light indicates that one of the vehicle's doors or trunk is not closed securely. To resolve this, simply close the door or trunk that is open. |
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Saab Headlight On Indicator Warning LightThe dashboard light indicates that your vehicle's entire lighting system is active, making you visible to other drivers and meeting legal requirements for night driving or bad weather. You do not need to take any action as it is an informational signal. |
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Saab Low Fuel Warning LightThe fuel level warning light, indicated by an orange/yellow symbol, typically signifies low fuel levels. If the light persists after refueling, a different issue is present. This problem often stems from a faulty float switch in the fuel tank, which may become stuck or malfunction. It is recommended to have this checked at a Saab service center. The issue should be addressed promptly to ensure accurate fuel level readings. |
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Saab Electronic Stability Control Warning LightThe Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Electronic Stability Program (ESP) light indicates a loss of control or a problem with the system that helps prevent skidding and loss of traction. If this light comes on, it means the system has detected a issue with maintaining vehicle stability. You should check the vehicle's manual for specific instructions and consider visiting a mechanic to diagnose and repair any problems. The ESC system helps by applying brakes to individual wheels to restore control and stability. |
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Saab Airbag Warning LightThe airbag warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle's airbag system if it remains on after the initial startup. If this light stays illuminated while driving, have the airbag system checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. A malfunctioning airbag system could be dangerous in the event of an accident. |
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Saab Low Washer Fluid Warning LightThe windshield washer fluid light indicates low washer fluid levels. This means you need to refill the washer fluid reservoir. It's especially important during rainy or snowy months when visibility is crucial. Check and refill the reservoir as needed to ensure clear visibility while driving. |
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Saab All-Wheel Drive System (AWD) Indicator LightThe AWD warning light on your dashboard indicates the status of your vehicle's all-wheel drive system. A steady light means the system is engaged, while a flashing light signals a malfunction requiring immediate attention. |
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Saab High Beams Warning LightThe high beam indicator light illuminates when the headlight high beams are activated and turns off when the low beams are selected. This light reminds you that your high beams are on, and you should switch to low beams to avoid blinding other drivers. |
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Saab Ice Warning LightThe frost warning light indicates that road conditions may become slippery due to freezing temperatures. If the temperature reaches or drops below freezing point, the light turns red, signaling you to drive more cautiously on the road. When this light is on, adjust your driving accordingly to ensure better traction and safety. |
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Saab Front Fog Indicator LightThe fog lamp symbol, represented by a semicircle next to wavy lines, indicates that your fog lamps are turned on. To address this, find the fog lamp switch near your steering wheel or headlamp settings and turn them off if they are not needed. This helps manage your visibility in clear conditions. |
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Saab Exterior Light Failure Warning LightThe Lamp Out Indicator symbol indicates that one or more headlamp bulbs or exterior lights are burned out or malfunctioning. You should replace the faulty bulb or have it checked by a professional as soon as possible. This ensures your vehicle remains visible and safe on the road. |
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Saab Brake Warning LightThe parking brake warning light illuminates when the parking brake is engaged or if the brake fluid level is low. If the light comes on, first ensure the parking brake is fully released. If the light remains on after releasing the parking brake, check the brake fluid level. If the fluid level is low, add brake fluid as needed. |
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Saab Cruise Control Malfunction Warning LightThe Cruise Control Indicator light signals that the cruise control system is active. It turns on when the system is engaged. The light will be amber/yellow if there's a malfunction in the system, which may prevent it from working. In such cases, it's advisable to visit a service center as soon as possible. The system may not function correctly until the issue is resolved. It is essential to have the problem diagnosed and fixed to ensure proper operation of the cruise control system. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Saab Warning Lights
Get quick answers to your most pressing questions about Saab dashboard indicators. These insights will help you respond appropriately to any warning light that may appear.