A warning light appears on your dashboard — your first reaction is probably some combination of worry and the hope that it'll go off on its own. Sometimes it does. Often it doesn't. And occasionally, ignoring it leads to a breakdown or a much more expensive repair.
This guide explains the most common dashboard warning lights, what they mean, and what you should do when they appear — from the team at Pro Flo Exhausts & Tyres in Bradford.
UK cars broadly use a traffic-light colour system for warning lights:
Stop immediately. This means dangerously low oil pressure — if you continue driving, you can destroy the engine within minutes. Pull over safely, switch off the engine, and check the oil level. If the oil level is fine and the light remains, do not restart. Call for assistance.
Stop immediately. The engine is overheating. This can be caused by low coolant, a faulty thermostat, or a failing head gasket. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool before checking the coolant level. Do not open the coolant cap while hot.
Urgent. The battery is not charging — likely an alternator or drive belt fault. You may have limited time before the engine cuts out. Reduce electrical load (turn off air con, heated seats, non-essential lights) and drive directly to a garage. Do not turn the engine off until you're safely parked.
This is one of the most common and least specific warning lights. It can indicate anything from a loose fuel cap to a faulty sensor or emissions issue. If it's steady (not flashing), you can usually continue driving but should have it diagnosed soon. If it's flashing, reduce speed and have it checked urgently — this often indicates a misfire that can damage the catalytic converter.
One or more tyres are significantly under-inflated. Check all four tyre pressures (and the spare if your car monitors it) and inflate to the correct figures. If a tyre continues to lose pressure, it may have a puncture or slow leak.
Could indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or a fault with the braking system. If the handbrake is off and this light appears, have it checked promptly. Do not ignore brake-related warnings.
The power steering assistance has failed or is reduced. Steering will feel significantly heavier than usual, particularly at low speeds. Safe to drive carefully to a garage but requires attention.
The diesel particulate filter is blocked. This often happens on vehicles used mainly for short journeys. You may be able to clear it by driving at motorway speeds for 20–30 minutes (a "regeneration" cycle). If the light persists, the filter will need professional cleaning or replacement.
Our ECU diagnostic service: Many warning lights require an OBD (onboard diagnostics) scan to read the fault codes. At Pro Flo, our ECU remapping and diagnostics service includes reading and clearing fault codes — call us if you need a diagnostic check.
If you're unsure what a warning light means or what to do, the safest course is always to have it investigated. Some faults are minor and inexpensive to fix early; others become expensive if left. Our team in Bradford is happy to advise — just give us a call.
Pro Flo Exhausts & Tyres, 365 Canal Road, Bradford BD2 1AL. ECU diagnostics, exhaust, tyre, and full vehicle checks.
Book a Check Call 01274 370194