Welcome to Your Ultimate Guide on Car Dashboard Warning Lights

Understanding your car's dashboard warning lights is crucial for your safety and vehicle maintenance. Here, you'll find clear explanations of each warning light, helping you stay informed and secure on the road. Dive deeper to discover how these indicators can keep you and your vehicle safe.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Seat Warning Lights

Dashboard warning lights serve as your car's way of communicating potential issues. Familiarizing yourself with these symbols not only enhances your driving experience but also ensures that you address any problems before they escalate. Below, we break down the most common warning lights and what actions you should take when they illuminate.

Seat Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light

Seat Electronic Throttle Control Warning Light

The Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) light indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's throttle system. If the light remains illuminated, use a diagnostic scan tool to identify the fault code and inspect the throttle body, sensors, and wiring for issues. Ignoring the light may lead to reduced power or poor acceleration.

Seat Battery Charge Warning Light

Seat Battery Charge Warning Light

The battery warning light, shaped like a battery with positive and negative symbols, indicates that the battery is not being charged by the engine. If this light appears on your dashboard, stop driving the car as quickly as possible. A common cause for this problem is a faulty alternator or loose wires connecting it to the battery. Continuing to drive with a battery that may be near empty could lead to a serious accident as vital systems may fail at any time. Turn off non-essential electrical accessories to conserve battery power. Seek the help of a mechanic or visit a local garage for assistance.

Seat Turn Signal Indicator Light

Seat Turn Signal Indicator Light

The Turn Signal Indicator symbols indicate which direction your turn signals are activated. If these symbols are flashing, check that your turn signals are not stuck on. Ensure all turn signals are functioning correctly before continuing to drive.

Seat Brake Pads Warning Light

Seat Brake Pads Warning Light

A yellow brake disc with an exclamation mark indicates that your brake pads are getting low. This warning gives you time to replace the pads before they become dangerously thin.

Seat Hood Open Warning Light

Seat Hood Open Warning Light

The bonnet warning light indicates that the bonnet of your vehicle is not closed properly. Check the bonnet and ensure it is securely closed to avoid more serious problems.

Seat Brake Warning Light

Seat Brake Warning Light

The parking brake warning light indicates that the parking brake is engaged or there is a problem with the brake system. Check if the parking brake is fully released, and if it is, inspect the brake pads, brake fluid level, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) for any issues. A faulty ABS system can be caused by a malfunctioning wheel speed sensor or wiring problems. If the light remains on, have the brake system checked by a professional as soon as possible. Driving with a faulty brake system can be dangerous and should be addressed promptly.

Seat Check Engine Warning Light

Seat Check Engine Warning Light

The check engine light indicates a problem with your car's engine. It could be a minor issue like a loose gas cap or a serious issue like a misfiring engine. You should use an OBD-II scanner to diagnose the problem and then visit a car service if necessary to repair the issue.

Seat Oil Change Reminder Warning Light

Seat Oil Change Reminder Warning Light

The Oil Change Reminder Light is indicated by an oil can with a drop of oil coming out of it. If it comes on, you need to check and possibly top up your oil. However, if the light stays on after adding oil or comes back on quickly, there may be a more serious issue such as a leak or a problem with the oil pump. Driving with low oil pressure can cause significant engine damage, so do not ignore this light.

Seat Gearbox Clutch Warning Light

Seat Gearbox Clutch Warning Light

The gearbox malfunction light indicates a problem with the vehicle's transmission system. If this light comes on, press the brake pedal and try selecting the gear again. If the issue persists, contact the nearest service centre for assistance.

Seat Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

Seat Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

The oil pressure warning light indicates low engine oil levels. Stop your car as soon as it is safe to do so and check the oil levels to prevent engine damage.

Seat Headlight On Indicator Warning Light

Seat Headlight On Indicator Warning Light

The "Dipped Headlight" warning light indicates a problem with your low beam headlight. If this light is on but your low beam headlights do not turn on, check and replace the headlight bulbs.

Seat All-Wheel Drive System (AWD) Indicator Light

Seat All-Wheel Drive System (AWD) Indicator Light

The AWD warning light indicates a malfunction in the all-wheel drive system or a sensor fault. Take your vehicle to a certified service center immediately to have the AWD system checked by a technician. A flashing light signals that the driver should exercise caution due to a system issue.

Seat Cruise Control Malfunction Warning Light

Seat Cruise Control Malfunction Warning Light

A green warning light showing a speedometer with an arrow pointing towards it indicates that the cruise control system is active. If this light appears, simply acknowledge that the system is operational and no immediate action is required.

Seat Blind Spot Indicator Warning Light

Seat Blind Spot Indicator Warning Light

The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) warning light indicates a vehicle is in your blind spot. If the light is on, check your blind spot before changing lanes. If you signal a turn and the light flashes, do not change lanes to avoid a collision.

Seat Front Fog Indicator Light

Seat Front Fog Indicator Light

The Fog Lamp Indicator (green) and Rear Fog Lamp Indicator (yellow/amber) illuminate when their respective lamps are activated, with the rear indicator pointing right and front indicator showing downward lines with a wavy pattern. While rear fog lamps are common in Europe but rare in North America, both should be turned off when not needed by locating their matching symbols on the light switch.

Seat Transmission Temperature Warning Light

Seat Transmission Temperature Warning Light

The "AT Oil Temp" warning light indicates that your transmission fluid temperature is excessively high. This may occur due to old or malfunctioning fluid or an overworked transmission. If this light illuminates, safely pull over and let the fluid cool down before resuming driving. If the warning persists, there is an underlying issue, and you should take your car to a professional mechanic.

Seat Coolant Temperature Warning Light

Seat Coolant Temperature Warning Light

The temperature warning light indicates an overheating issue. When the light is orange, it signals a low temperature problem, but when it turns red, it means the engine has overheated severely. If the light is red, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and avoid further damage. If the light is orange, check the coolant level and have it inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Seat Low Fuel Warning Light

Seat Low Fuel Warning Light

The fuel warning light illuminates orange/yellow when your fuel level is low. If it remains on after refueling, there is another issue. Typically, this is due to a faulty float switch in the fuel tank. Have it inspected at your nearest Seat service center. Check for any stuck or malfunctioning parts.

Seat ABS Warning Light

Seat ABS Warning Light

The ABS warning light indicates a malfunction in the anti-lock braking system of your vehicle. You should have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure safe braking performance. Continuing to drive with a faulty ABS system can lead to serious safety problems.

Seat Electric Parking Brake Warning Light

Seat Electric Parking Brake Warning Light

The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) warning light on your dashboard indicates that the parking brake is still engaged or there is a problem with the EPB system. This could be due to a malfunctioning EPB system, a faulty brake switch, or electrical issues such as a low battery or wiring problems. To resolve this, ensure the parking brake is fully released. If the light remains on, have the EPB system and brake switch checked for any malfunctions and address any electrical issues.

Seat Exterior Light Failure Warning Light

Seat Exterior Light Failure Warning Light

The lamp-out indicator light signals that an exterior light on the vehicle is not functioning properly. Check all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Identify and replace the faulty bulb or lamp to ensure safe driving and avoid potential fines. This indicator is typically represented by a symbol resembling a sun with rays around it.

Seat Engine Air Filter Warning Light

Seat Engine Air Filter Warning Light

The dashboard warning light indicates a clogged air filter that needs replacement. You should replace the air filter immediately to avoid more serious engine problems. Taking early action ensures your vehicle maintains its efficiency.

Seat Service Stop Start System Warning Light

Seat Service Stop Start System Warning Light

The Auto Stop-Start warning light indicates a problem with the auto stop-start system, which automatically shuts off and restarts the engine to save fuel. To address this issue, try restarting your car to see if the problem resolves itself. If the warning light remains on, it's recommended to have your vehicle inspected at a certified service center. If the issue persists, further diagnosis and repair may be necessary.

Seat Power Steering Fault Warning Light

Seat Power Steering Fault Warning Light

The Power Steering or Electronic Power Steering warning light, depicted as a steering wheel with an exclamation mark, indicates a problem with the steering system. This warning light means your vehicle is about to lose power steering assist, making steering more difficult and potentially dangerous. When this light comes on, you should immediately pull over to a safe place and check the fluid level if it's a hydraulic system, or consider restarting the engine if it's an electric system. It is highly recommended to have the issue inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Seat Electronic Stability Control Warning Light

Seat Electronic Stability Control Warning Light

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light, often depicted as a car with swirls below, indicates that the system is intervening to restore traction. If you hear an audio alarm and see this light, it means the system is actively working to stabilize the vehicle. However, if the light remains on constantly without any apparent loss of traction, it suggests a system fault. In such cases, consult a trained mechanic or dealership for assistance.

Seat Immobilizer Warning Light

Seat Immobilizer Warning Light

The immobilizer warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle's anti-theft system, typically due to a non-recognized key, incorrect key insertion, or a weak key battery; to resolve this, check the key and battery, and if necessary, use a diagnostic tool to identify any underlying issues.

Seat Lane Departure Warning Light

Seat Lane Departure Warning Light

The Lane Keeping System warning light indicates that the vehicle has detected an unintentional lane departure. If activated, the system may apply steering torque to guide the vehicle back to the center of the lane if you do not use your turn signals before changing lanes.

Seat Ice Warning Light

Seat Ice Warning Light

The snowflake dashboard warning light indicates that the outside temperature is close to freezing, making road conditions potentially icy and hazardous. When this light appears, drive with caution and be aware of slippery roads.

Seat Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light

Seat Forward Collision Warning (FCW) Light

The forward collision warning (FCW) icon alerts you to a potential collision with a vehicle or obstacle ahead. It may display a flashing "BRAKE!" message to prompt you to slow down or stop. If you see this warning, immediately check your surroundings and adjust your speed to avoid a collision. The system is designed to detect obstacles and alert you to take action to prevent an accident.

Seat Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light

Seat Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning Light

The fuel cap warning light, often depicted as a car with a missing chunk and a screw, indicates a potential leak in the fuel system, typically due to a loose gas cap. Check and ensure the gas cap is tightly secured. If the light persists after tightening the cap, you should consult a mechanic to diagnose any other issues.

Seat High Beams Warning Light

Seat High Beams Warning Light

The High Beam Indicator is a dashboard light that indicates your car's high beam headlights are active. If it remains on despite turning off the high beams, check the high beam switch and bulb connections for any issues.

Seat Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light

Seat Seat Belt Reminder Warning Light

The seat belt warning light illuminates when a passenger or driver is not wearing their seatbelt, accompanied by a chime to remind you to buckle up. If the light stays on despite the seatbelt being fastened, it may indicate a loose connection or issue with the seatbelt system. Check the seatbelt buckle and connections to ensure they are secure.

Seat Low Washer Fluid Warning Light

Seat Low Washer Fluid Warning Light

The windshield washer fluid warning light indicates that the washer fluid level is low. Top up the fluid by locating the cap under the bonnet with the same symbol and filling it up. If the light remains on after topping up, wait a few minutes and then seek professional help if it doesn't go out.

Seat Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light

Seat Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light

The TPMS warning light indicates low tire pressure. If this light appears on your dashboard, check and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure levels. Once your tires are properly inflated, you may need to reset the TPMS system to clear the warning light.

Seat Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning Light

Seat Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning Light

The adaptive cruise control (ACC) light indicates a system malfunction. This may be due to incorrect following distance, faulty sensors, or adverse weather conditions. If the light illuminates, inspect the system and ensure it is functioning correctly.

Seat Airbag Warning Light

Seat Airbag Warning Light

The airbag warning light, often depicted as a person with a large dot above them, indicates a problem with the airbag system, which could prevent airbags from deploying in a crash. If you see this icon, it means there's an issue that needs attention. You should get it checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

Seat Door Open Warning Light

Seat Door Open Warning Light

The Door Open Warning Light indicates that one or more vehicle doors are not properly closed. This warning is usually shown as an open door symbol, often in red. If the light appears during your journey, stop safely and check that all doors are securely closed. If the issue persists, it may be due to a sensor malfunction that requires professional inspection.

FAQs About Dashboard Warning Lights

In this section, we provide quick answers to the most common queries regarding dashboard warning lights. This will help you navigate potential issues with confidence.

The check engine light indicates a problem with the engine or emission control system. It's advisable to have it checked as soon as possible.

This light signals low oil pressure, which can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed immediately.

Check your tire pressures and inflate them to the recommended levels; driving on low tires can be dangerous.

This light suggests an issue with the vehicle's charging system, and it should be inspected promptly to avoid battery failure.

No, this light indicates a potential brake system issue, and you should stop driving immediately and seek assistance.

The airbag light indicates a malfunction in the airbag system; have it checked by a professional to ensure safety in case of an accident.

If this light comes on, pull over safely and allow your engine to cool down before checking coolant levels.

This light indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system; while you can drive, be cautious and get it checked soon.

Refuel your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid running out of gas.

This indicates that traction control is active due to slippery conditions; if it stays on after conditions improve, have it checked.