Dashboard warning lights: the different types

The dashboard warning lights come in various types, each with a different meaning. Some indicate serious issues, while others are simply part of normal vehicle operation.

But what are the different types of warning lights?

And how can you recognize them?

Green or Blue Indicator Lights

These lights, such as turn signals, dipped headlights, and windscreen wipers, are the most commonly used and indicate active vehicle functions.

Unlike other warning lights, these do not indicate a problem but simply confirm an action is in progress.

Yellow Maintenance Lights

Often represented by the oil change light, these indicators serve as reminders for routine vehicle maintenance.

They illuminate periodically based on driving frequency and mileage.

These lights are usually yellow but may turn red if maintenance is overdue.

Orange Warning Lights

These warning lights signal an issue detected by the vehicle’s electronic control units (ECUs).

This category includes the airbag warning light, ESP light, bulb failure indicator, and low fuel warning.

While these issues require attention, they do not always require you to stop immediately.

Red Alarm Lights

Red warning lights indicate critical issues that require urgent action.

These lights signal serious problems that may require a visit to a mechanic as soon as possible—or even an immediate stop in severe cases.

This category includes transmission faults, battery charge warnings, power steering failures, and engine oil overheating alerts.

Red and Orange Zigzag Warning Light on Dacia: What Does It Mean?

This zigzag warning light is specific to Renault Group vehicles, including Renault (Twingo, Clio, etc.) and Dacia (Sandero, Stepway, Duster, etc.).

The zigzag warning light can be red or orange, depending on the severity of the issue. It often appears alongside other warning lights, such as the ESP light, engine warning light, or the spanner icon indicating an oil change is needed.

AdBlue Warning Light: What Does It Mean?

The AdBlue warning light is specific to diesel vehicles equipped with the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system.

When this light comes on, it typically indicates a low AdBlue level or an issue with the emissions control system.

If the light turns on, it serves as a warning to refill your AdBlue soon.

If accompanied by an ‘Unable to start’ message, your vehicle may become immobilized once the remaining mileage reaches zero.

Conclusion

While not all dashboard warning lights indicate an immediate risk, they should never be ignored.

These lights serve to keep the driver informed about the vehicle’s condition while driving.

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