Car Warning Lights

It's certainly not pleasant to get stuck in a car that has run out of fuel or battery. But it's even less pleasant if this happens to you with a rental car abroad.

For your reference, we've compiled a list of common warning lights that may help you avoid uncomfortable and even dangerous situations. Feel free to save and keep this list.

Red Warning Lights

1. Coolant Fluid - Indicates that the engine has overheated. A possible reason might be a lack of engine coolant. Beware of opening the radiator cap when the engine is hot; you might get severe burns.
2. Low Oil Pressure - This light signals a lack of oil in the engine, which could cause significant engine damage. You can check the engine oil level using the oil dipstick and add if necessary.
3. Brake System - This light can indicate the need to release the handbrake. In certain cases, it could signify brake wear or a low brake fluid level. Another brake-related warning could be due to either brake wear or the brake fluid level being too low. Another reason might point to a problem in the ABS system: if there's an issue with this system, the battery light might also come on.
4. Battery - The light's appearance indicates an electrical fault in the car.
5. Brake System Overheating - Stop cautiously on the side of the road and continue driving only after the system has cooled down.
6. Transmission Temperature - The light turning on indicates a problem in the system or an excessively high temperature. In such a case, allow the system to cool down.
7. Open Door - Ensure all car doors are properly closed before continuing to drive.

Yellow Warning Lights
 

8. Low Fuel Gauge - The fuel level is low, and you should refill soon.
9. Engine Emission - A potential issue with the engine or the emission system. This problem doesn't require immediate stopping, but the cause should be checked accordingly.
10. Rear Fog Light On - Remember to turn it off when no longer needed.
11. Tire Pressure - The air pressure is not appropriate, or there's an issue with the pressure monitoring system. After inflating, press and hold the SET button to ensure the light turns off.
12. Brake Pads - This light warns about defects in the brake pads and, in some instances, the need to replace brake discs or brake fluid.
13. Rear Defogger - Remember to turn off the defogger once the fog has cleared.
14. External Light - Issue with the external light. The bulb might have burned out at times.
15. Internal Combustion Engine - Found in diesel cars. This type of issue may cause driving problems.
16. Engine Oil Level - This light indicates the need to refill the engine oil up to the desired level.
17. Windshield Washer Fluid Level - Similarly, here you should refill water up to the desired level.
18. Airbag - The airbag is not functioning properly.
19. Seat Belt - One of the passengers is not buckled up, or there's a problem with the seatbelt system.
20. Stability Control System - ESP - A flashing light indicates that the car is in operation. A constantly lit light over time might suggest a problem in the ESP system.
21. Battery - An issue with the charging system or the alternator. This means that the battery isn't receiving power, which might cause the car to shut down soon.

Green or Blue Warning Lights
 

22. Low Engine Temperatures - Typically illuminates during the car's initial start-up or on very cold days.
23. Fog Lights - Front fog light is on. Helps improve road visibility when it's not optimal.
24. Brake Pedal - This light will turn on if there's a need to press the brake to start the car or shift gears to Drive.

Ofran wishes you a safe and pleasant trip.