Dashboard-light reference
Identify the light, understand its likely urgency, and decide whether the safest next step is to stop, inspect, or schedule service.
The engine may not be building safe oil pressure.
Shut the engine off as soon as it is safe. Check level only after stopping; do not assume adding oil fixes pressure loss.
No—unless the manual clearly identifies a different message.
Engine temperature is dangerously high or coolant may be low.
Turn off A/C, pull over, shut down, and let the engine cool fully. Never open a hot cap.
No while temperature is high or steam/leakage is present.
Parking brake may be set, fluid may be low, or the hydraulic system may have a fault.
Confirm the parking brake is released. If the light stays on or pedal feel changed, stop driving.
Not with a soft pedal, low fluid, leak, or reduced braking.
The alternator/charging system is not maintaining voltage.
Reduce electrical load and move to a safe place; the engine may stall once the battery is depleted.
Only a short distance to safety if temperature and steering remain normal.
The engine/emissions computer detected a fault.
If steady, check for obvious issues such as a loose fuel cap and arrange a scan. If flashing, reduce load and stop.
Usually limited driving when steady and running normally; no when flashing or running rough.
One or more tires may be underinflated, or the monitoring system has a fault.
Inspect tires and set cold pressure from the door placard. A flashing-then-steady light often indicates a system fault.
Check tire pressures with a gauge and correct underinflation before normal driving. Do not drive on a damaged or rapidly deflating tire.
Anti-lock braking may be unavailable; normal hydraulic braking may remain.
Drive cautiously only if pedal feel is normal and no red brake warning is present. Arrange diagnosis.
Potentially, with extra stopping distance and normal base brakes.
A restraint-system fault may prevent airbags or pretensioners from working correctly.
Do not probe airbag wiring. Arrange professional diagnosis.
Usually movable, but crash protection may be reduced.
Flashing means the system is actively limiting slip; steady may mean it is disabled or faulty.
Slow down when flashing. If steady, check for a disable switch or related ABS fault and arrange service.
Usually, if weather and handling permit and no other critical warning is present.
Fuel reserve is low; remaining range varies by vehicle and conditions.
Refuel soon with the required fuel grade.
Only far enough to refuel; do not depend on an exact remaining distance.
