Diagnostics and warning lights
What each light means, what to do on the road, and what we check in the workshop.
The warning lights, one by one
Red means stop when it is safe and call us. Amber means the car can be driven, but book a check soon.
Oil pressure
Oil is not reaching the engine at the right pressure.
What to do
Stop the engine as soon as it is safe. Do not drive on; call us and we arrange collection.
Brake system
Brake fluid is low, or the hydraulic system has a fault. On some cars it also means the parking brake is on.
What to do
Release the parking brake. If the light stays on, stop when it is safe and call us.
Charging
The battery is not being charged, usually a worn alternator or a slipping belt.
What to do
Switch off what you can (heater fan, radio) and drive straight to us, or call if you are far away.
Engine check
The engine computer has stored a fault: a sensor, ignition, fuel or emissions.
What to do
Book a check this week. If the light flashes, slow down and call us the same day.
Tire pressure
One or more tires is well below its pressure, or a sensor needs attention.
What to do
Check the pressures at the next fuel station and look for a nail or a bulge.
Service due
The car’s own service reminder: the date or mileage of the next service has come up.
What to do
Book within the next few weeks; the car is safe to drive.
Example prices. Warning-light shapes follow the international standard; your car’s handbook shows its own set.
A light on the dashboard
We read the fault codes, test the part they point to and explain in plain words what is wrong.
Book a service or a check
Choose a day and tell us what you have noticed. We call with a written price before any work starts.