Understand the broad colour pattern
Many cars use red symbols for conditions needing urgent attention, amber or yellow for faults or systems requiring investigation, and green or blue for information such as lights being switched on. This is a useful starting point but not a universal rule. The meaning of a symbol can differ by manufacturer and whether it flashes, stays on or appears with a message.
Warnings that may require you to stop
An oil-pressure warning, overheating message, serious brake-system warning or other instruction to stop may indicate a risk of damage or loss of safe control. Reduce speed and pull over somewhere safe as soon as conditions allow, then follow the owner's manual. Do not ignore an instruction to stop driving, and do not open a hot radiator cap. If brake performance is affected, use the safe-emergency guidance for your specific vehicle and seek assistance.
Warnings that need prompt investigation
A check-engine light, tyre-pressure warning, battery/charging alert or stability-system indicator may require different action. For example, a tyre-pressure warning might mean an underinflated or damaged tyre, so check safely and do not continue on a visibly flat tyre. A flashing engine-warning symbol may signal a more serious condition than a steady one. Electric and hybrid vehicles have additional high-voltage and charging warnings.
Know what is normal
Several warning lights may illuminate briefly when you turn on the ignition and then go out after a self-test. Learn which ones your car normally displays. If a new warning remains, check the manual and seek qualified help when appropriate. Do not clear a fault code simply to extinguish the light without understanding the underlying problem.
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