Your Guide to Safe Driving
Discover what your Vauxhall's dashboard is trying to tell you. Our comprehensive guide helps you interpret warning lights, ensuring you stay informed and confident on the road. Keep your Vauxhall running smoothly with our expert insights.
Understanding Your Vauxhall's Warning Lights
Your Vauxhall's dashboard is its way of communicating with you. Each light has a specific meaning, from minor alerts to urgent warnings. Familiarize yourself with these signals to keep your vehicle in top condition and ensure your safety on the road.
Vauxhall Headlight On Indicator Warning LightThis light indicates that your vehicle's entire lighting system is active, ensuring visibility to other drivers and compliance with legal requirements for night driving or bad weather conditions. Check that all exterior lights are functioning properly, and if any issues are found, have them inspected and repaired by a professional as soon as possible. |
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Vauxhall Check Engine Warning LightThe check engine light indicates a problem with the car's motor and emissions system. The issue could be minor, such as a loose wire or ill-fitting gas cap, or more serious, like a worn solenoid or engine malfunction. If the light illuminates while driving and everything seems fine, don't panic but get the vehicle to a mechanic for a diagnostic test. If the light turns on and the vehicle operates erratically or makes strange noises, pull over immediately and call for a tow, as there's a serious problem that could damage the engine. Ignoring a blinking check-engine light puts you at risk and could ruin the car's powertrain. The vehicle should be checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. A steady check engine light is less urgent but still needs attention. A blinking light indicates a more serious issue. Get the vehicle checked to avoid further damage. |
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Vauxhall Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning LightThe tire pressure warning light indicates that one or more tires are under- or overinflated. Stop the car and refill the tire to the correct pressure rating. Check the tire pressure display in the driver's gauges or infotainment system to identify which tire is affected. If the warning light does not go off after a few minutes, there may be damage to the tire causing a rapid leak. Refill the tire and restart the car to see if the light goes off. If it doesn't, have the tire inspected for damage. Check the tire pressure regularly to prevent under- or overinflation. If the problem persists, have the tire pressure monitoring system checked by a professional. |
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Vauxhall Electronic Throttle Control Warning LightThe Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) light indicates a problem with the throttle system in your vehicle. This light may be triggered by a malfunctioning throttle body, faulty sensor, wiring issues, or electrical connection problems. It can also be caused by low voltage, a clogged air filter, or issues with the Engine Control Unit. If the ETC light is illuminated, it is crucial to have the system checked as driving with a faulty throttle control can lead to reduced engine performance and safety risks. The vehicle should be inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose and repair the underlying issue. |
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Vauxhall Oil Change Reminder Warning LightThe yellow oil symbol on your dashboard indicates low oil level or the need for an oil change. You should get the oil changed and replace the oil filter to ensure smooth engine operation. |
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Vauxhall Service Stop Start System Warning LightThe Auto Stop-Start System warning light, indicated by a circle with an arrow and the letter 'A' in the center or an exclamation mark, signifies a fault in the system. Restart the car to see if the problem persists, and if it does, seek professional help, as the car may still function normally but without the auto stop-start feature. |
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Vauxhall Power Steering Fault Warning LightThe power steering warning light indicates a fault in the system that helps make the steering wheel easier to turn. If this light appears, it means there's an issue that needs attention. The car may still be drivable, but it will require more effort to steer than usual. You should have the system checked and repaired as soon as possible. |
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Vauxhall Blind Spot Indicator Warning LightThe Blind Spot Warning light indicates a vehicle or object in your blind spot or possible system malfunction. If the light remains on or a malfunction message appears on the instrument panel, check the sensors for dirt or damage and have the system inspected by a professional workshop. |
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Vauxhall Coolant Temperature Warning LightThe thermometer symbol indicates an overheating issue. When this light appears, it means your engine temperature is too high. Orange indicates a low temperature issue, while red signals a critical overheating problem. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and have it checked by a mechanic immediately. |
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Vauxhall Transmission Temperature Warning LightThis warning light indicates that the internal components of your transmission are at a critical point, possibly due to heavy towing, low transmission fluid levels, or excessive wear. You should stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so and have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic immediately. |
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Vauxhall Hood Open Warning LightThe bonnet warning light indicates that the bonnet of your vehicle is not closed correctly. You should pull over safely and check the bonnet to ensure it is securely closed to avoid more serious problems. |
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Vauxhall Low Washer Fluid Warning LightThe windshield washer fluid icon indicates a low fluid level. If this light is on, you need to refill the washer fluid reservoir. It is especially important to address this issue during rainy or snowy weather when visibility is crucial. Refill the reservoir with the recommended washer fluid to ensure clear visibility while driving. |
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Vauxhall Seat Belt Reminder Warning LightThe Seat Belt Reminder Indicator symbol appears on your dashboard when it detects that a seat belt is not securely fastened. It prompts you to put on your seat belt or belts. If the light stays on continuously, there is a problem with the system that needs to be addressed by a mechanic. You should have it checked to ensure proper functioning. |
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Vauxhall Ice Warning LightThe frost warning light indicates that the outside temperature is low enough for frost or ice to form on the road. Check the temperature setting and ensure Snow Mode is not accidentally enabled; if the light persists, exercise caution while driving. |
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Vauxhall Gearbox Clutch Warning LightThis light indicates a gearbox malfunction. Press the brake pedal and select the gear again as instructed by the driver information system. If the issue persists, contact the nearest service center. |
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Vauxhall Airbag Warning LightThe air bag warning light indicates a problem with the supplemental air bag system. Here's what it means and what to do: 1. If the light stays on, it indicates a system malfunction. |
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Vauxhall Service Adaptive Cruise Control Warning LightThe adaptive cruise control (ACC) light indicates a system malfunction. This may be due to issues with sensor functionality or adverse weather conditions. Check the system and ensure proper operation when the light appears. |
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Vauxhall All-Wheel Drive System (AWD) Indicator LightThe AWD warning light indicates that there is an issue with the all-wheel drive system, which distributes engine power to all wheels for better handling on slippery roads or off-road conditions. If this light turns on during normal driving conditions or flashes continuously, it requires immediate attention. You should have the system checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. |
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Vauxhall Engine Air Filter Warning LightThe Air Filter Warning Light on your Vauxhall indicates that the air filter is clogged and needs to be replaced. You should replace the air filter as soon as possible to avoid more serious engine problems. Taking immediate action will help maintain your vehicle's efficiency. |
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Vauxhall Lane Departure Warning LightThe lane departure warning light, indicated by a car crossing over broken or solid lines, signals that your vehicle is drifting out of its lane. If this light appears, you should check your position on the road and adjust your steering to stay within the lane. This system uses a camera to detect lane markings and may also include an audio alert to notify you. |
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Vauxhall Immobilizer Warning LightThe immobilizer warning light indicates a problem with the anti-theft system. It means the car's engine may not start due to a key recognition issue. If this light appears, take your car to a mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. The mechanic will ensure the immobilizer system functions correctly to prevent unauthorized engine starts. |
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Vauxhall Electronic Stability Control Warning LightThe Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light is represented by a car icon with two squiggly lines underneath. It indicates that the ESC system is activated to help stabilize the vehicle. If it turns on during moderate speeds on dry surfaces, there might be a problem with the system, often related to a faulty wheel speed sensor. Check the system if it persists. If the light is on due to activation in slippery conditions, it means the system is working as intended. In case of continuous illumination, have the vehicle inspected. If the light turns on unnecessarily, consult the vehicle's manual for driving mode adjustments that might be affecting the system. Ensure proper function of the ESC system for safety. If the issue persists, seek professional assistance. The ESC system is crucial for maintaining vehicle stability and should be addressed promptly if malfunctioning. |
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Vauxhall Loose Fuel Filler Cap Warning LightThe fuel cap warning light indicates that your gas cap is not properly tightened. Tighten the cap correctly to avoid triggering other issues. If the light stays on after tightening, have your vehicle checked by a mechanic. Other leaks in the fuel system can also cause this light to illuminate. |
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Vauxhall Electric Parking Brake Warning LightThe Electric Parking Brake (EPB) Malfunction Indicator lights up when a fault is detected in the system. If the light is flashing or remains on, it means the parking brake is not functioning correctly. The vehicle is safe to drive, but the parking brake may not work properly. If the light continues to flash or stays on while driving, visit a qualified service station as soon as possible. Check to ensure the brake is not engaged inadvertently. The system should be inspected and repaired by a professional technician. |
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Vauxhall Engine Oil Pressure Warning LightThe red oil lamp icon indicates low engine oil pressure. This can be caused by a leak or oil being burnt 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, overheating, or extensive wear. |
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Vauxhall Brake Pads Warning LightThe brake pad warning light, often indicated by an exclamation mark, signifies that your brake pads are worn out or nearing depletion. You should have them serviced as soon as possible to prevent further issues. |
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Vauxhall Turn Signal Indicator LightThis flashing arrow on your dashboard indicates that your turn signal is operational. When you signal to turn, a green arrow will flash on the left or right side of the dashboard, corresponding to the direction you intend to go. |
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Vauxhall Exterior Light Failure Warning LightThe Lamp Out Indicator symbol indicates that one or more of the headlamp bulbs or exterior lights is burned out or malfunctioning. Check the lights and replace any faulty bulbs to ensure safe driving. This issue should be addressed as soon as possible. |
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Vauxhall Cruise Control Malfunction Warning LightThe Cruise Control Indicator light signals the status of the cruise control system. A green light indicates that the cruise control is functioning. If the light flashes or turns yellow/red, it signifies a malfunction, such as faulty sensors or brake switch issues. If the light does not illuminate or remains on without cruise control activation, there is a problem with the activation switch or fuse. |
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Vauxhall Door Open Warning LightThe Door Ajar Warning Light indicates that one or more vehicle doors are not securely closed. It is typically represented by an open door symbol and may be accompanied by an alarm. If the light illuminates during travel, pull over safely and check all doors to ensure they are properly closed. If the issue persists, it may be due to a faulty sensor requiring professional inspection. |
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Vauxhall Forward Collision Warning (FCW) LightThe Forward Collision Warning light indicates a potential collision with a vehicle ahead. The FCW system alerts the driver if a vehicle in front suddenly brakes. If the light stays on continuously with no vehicle in front, it may indicate a sensor malfunction, requiring immediate service. Failure to address this issue could lead to serious injury or death. |
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Vauxhall Battery Charge Warning LightThe 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, you should pull over and stop driving as quickly as possible. The cause may be a faulty alternator or loose wires connecting it to the battery. Continuing to drive with a nearly empty battery can lead to serious accidents due to potential loss of vital systems. You should seek help from an independent mechanic or visit a local dealership. A professional inspection is necessary to diagnose and fix the issue to avoid further risks. |
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Vauxhall Front Fog Indicator LightThe fog lamp warning light, indicated by a semicircle and wavy lines, means your fog lamps are currently active. This light is used to inform you that these lamps are on, especially in low visibility conditions like fog, rain, or snow. To turn off this light, simply switch off your fog lamps. |
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Vauxhall Low Fuel Warning LightThe Low Fuel Warning Light indicates that your vehicle's fuel level is critically low. You should refuel your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid running out of fuel. Typically, this light comes on when the fuel tank is around 10% to 15% full, leaving about 1-2 gallons of fuel. |
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Vauxhall Brake Warning LightThe brake warning light indicates a problem with your vehicle's braking system. If it appears as the text "BRAKE" or an exclamation point with brake pads surrounding a circle, you should pull over immediately. There could be issues with brake fluid pressure or technological faults with brake assistance programs. Stop your car in a safe place and do not continue driving. Check your brake fluid level and top it up if necessary. If the problem persists, seek assistance from an independent garage or a dealership. |
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Vauxhall ABS Warning LightThe ABS warning light, featuring the letters 'ABS' inside a circle, indicates a malfunction in the Anti-lock Braking System. This means the ABS system cannot assist in preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking, though the brakes themselves may still function. You should seek assistance from a trained mechanic or a dealership as soon as possible. |
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Vauxhall High Beams Warning LightThe high beam indicator light illuminates when the headlight high beams are engaged and turns off when switched to low beams. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to common questions about Vauxhall dashboard warning lights. Our expert-curated FAQs provide essential information to help you respond appropriately to dashboard alerts.