Colin Stevenson, Laurence Braithwaite, Laura Green and Laura Bradley from National Highways

Part of the work by National Highways is an initiative to increase driver awareness on the correct actions to take when a warning light appears on a vehicle dashboard, which may cause an uninformed driver to panic, even if the issue is something minor. 

An understanding of what each type of warning light means can help drivers respond appropriately and safely.

Dashboard warning lights are an essential feature in modern vehicles, designed to provide information about the status of your vehicle and can alert you to potential issues. These lights typically follow a traffic light colour system—red, amber, green (although these may be white, or blue depending upon the vehicle manufacturer).

This guide explains the different types of dashboard warning lights, their meanings, and the actions you should take when they appear.

Types of dashboard warning lights

Red warning lights:  

A red warning light means there may be a serious fault with your vehicle. Do not begin a journey with a red warning light showing. If one appears while you are driving do not stop in a live lane unless absolutely necessary. If your vehicle can be safely driven, exit at the next junction or service area to seek advice and assistance.

If you cannot leave the carriageway:

• • Move into the left lane.
  • Pull into an emergency area, layby, or onto a hard shoulder.

Amber warning lights: 

An amber warning light is advisory and suggests that maintenance or vehicle checks may be needed. You should not set off on a journey with an amber warning light showing. If one appears while driving do not stop in a live lane unless absolutely necessary. If your vehicle can be safely driven, exit at the next junction or service area to seek advice and assistance.

If you cannot leave the carriageway:

• • Move into the left lane.
  • Pull into an emergency area, layby, or onto a hard shoulder.

Addressing the issue promptly can prevent more serious problems from developing.

Green, white or blue warning lights: 

These lights are usually green but can also be blue or white depending on the vehicle manufacturer. They are for general information about your vehicle. You do not need to stop if these appear, but it's a good habit to find out what they mean at your next planned stop. 

It’s important to familiarise yourself with your car’s specific symbols. Refer to your vehicle instruction manual for detailed information. This is especially important if you have purchased new vehicle or are hiring a vehicle that you are not familiar with.

By understanding what each type of dashboard warning light means, you can make calm, informed decisions that help to keep you, your passengers, and other road users safe.

What to do in case of a breakdown

If your vehicle develops a problem, or if you see a red or amber warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard, leave the carriageway at the next exit or pull into a service area if possible. Do not stop in a live lane unless absolutely necessary. If you’re unable to leave the carriageway, please follow our three-step advice to help keep you and other road users safe:

• Go left
• Get safe
• Get help

Dashboard warning lights are a vital communication tool between your vehicle and you, the driver. Understanding their meanings and knowing how to respond can help ensure your safety and prevent costly repairs. Whether it’s a red light signalling a serious issue, an amber light advising maintenance, or a green, white or blue light providing information, taking the appropriate action is key.

For more detailed information about your vehicle’s warning lights, always refer to your instruction manual or contact the manufacturer. Additionally, resources like the National Highways online road safety section can provide valuable advice on handling breakdowns and staying safe on the road. Discover more now.

Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your vehicle in optimal condition by paying attention to dashboard warning lights.

Image: illustration of car warning lights on dashboard. Credit: National Highways.