Understanding dashboard warning lights in your Holden Calais is essential for safe driving, as they alert you to potential issues that could lead to breakdowns or accidents. Ignoring them might result in costly repairs or unsafe conditions, so regular checks and prompt action help maintain your vehicle’s reliability and your safety on the road. This guide categorizes the major lights based on urgency, covering standard ones like ABS, airbag, and more for completeness.
Quick Navigation
Red Warning Lights (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure can cause engine damage from lack of lubrication. Often due to low oil levels or a faulty pump. Stop the car immediately, check oil level, and do not drive until fixed; seek a mechanic if needed.
Brake System Alert
Indicates a serious brake issue like low fluid or failure in the system. Could be caused by leaks or worn parts. Pull over safely right away and call for roadside assistance or a tow to a service center.
Coolant Temperature
Engine is overheating, possibly from low coolant, a faulty thermostat, or radiator problems. Stop driving, let the engine cool, check coolant level, and get professional help to avoid engine damage.
Battery Charge
Battery is not charging properly, often due to alternator failure or loose connections. Stop as soon as safe, turn off non-essential electrics, and have the charging system checked immediately.
Airbag System
Airbag may not deploy in a crash, caused by sensor faults or wiring issues. Stop and have it inspected at a service center right away for safety reasons.
Power Steering Failure
Loss of power steering assistance, making steering hard; could be low fluid or pump failure. Pull over safely and arrange for towing to a mechanic.
Transmission Overheat
Transmission fluid is too hot, possibly from heavy load or low fluid. Stop immediately, let it cool, and check fluid level before seeking repairs.
ABS System Critical
Anti-lock brakes are malfunctioning severely, risking wheel lockup. Often a sensor or module failure. Stop driving and get it serviced urgently.
Seatbelt Reminder (Unbuckled)
Alerts if seatbelts are not fastened, increasing injury risk in a crash. Buckle up immediately; if it persists, check sensors.
Door Ajar Critical
A door is not fully closed, which could open while driving. Stop and secure all doors before continuing.
Brake Fluid Low
Brake fluid level is dangerously low, possibly from a leak. Stop right away, check for leaks, and refill or repair as needed.
Engine Overheat
Similar to coolant but signals extreme heat; caused by cooling system failure. Pull over, shut off engine, and call for help.
Steering Lock
Steering system is locked or faulty, preventing safe control. Stop and seek immediate mechanical attention.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights (Action Required Soon)
Check Engine
Engine or emissions issue detected, like a faulty sensor or misfire. Drive carefully and visit a service center soon for diagnosis.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
One or more tyres have low pressure, affecting handling and fuel use. Check and inflate tyres to recommended levels promptly.
Glow Plug (Diesel Models)
Glow plugs are heating or faulty in diesel engines. Wait for light to go off before starting; service if it stays on.
DPF Filter
Diesel particulate filter is clogged, needing regeneration or cleaning. Drive at highway speeds or visit a mechanic soon.
ESP Stability Control
Electronic stability program is off or faulty, affecting traction. Turn it on if possible and get serviced soon.
Transmission Issue
Transmission has a minor fault, like slipping gears. Drive gently and have it checked at a service center promptly.
Eco Mode Fault
Eco driving mode is not functioning properly. Switch modes and consult a mechanic if it persists.
Low Fuel
Fuel level is low, risking running out. Refuel as soon as possible to avoid being stranded.
Washer Fluid Low
Windshield washer fluid is low. Refill the reservoir soon for clear visibility.
Service Reminder
Vehicle is due for routine maintenance. Schedule a service appointment promptly.
Traction Control Off
Traction control system is deactivated or faulty. Reactivate and check for issues soon.
Lane Departure Warning
System detects drifting; may need calibration. Adjust driving and service if it keeps alerting falsely.
Fog Light Fault
Fog lights are malfunctioning. Check bulbs and wiring, repair soon for poor weather visibility.
Cruise Control Issue
Cruise control not engaging properly. Inspect sensors and get fixed for long drives.
Exhaust System Alert
Issue with exhaust or emissions. Drive to a service center for inspection to avoid further problems.
Coolant Level Low
Coolant is low, risking overheating. Top up coolant and check for leaks promptly.
Brake Pad Wear
Brake pads are worn thin. Replace pads soon to maintain stopping power.
Suspension System
Suspension fault detected. Have it inspected to ensure ride stability.
Fuel Cap Loose
Fuel cap not secured, causing evaporation. Tighten cap and reset if needed.
Immobilizer Active
Security system issue preventing start. Check key and consult dealer soon.
Adaptive Headlights Fault
Adaptive lights not adjusting. Get serviced for better night driving.
Rain Sensor Fault
Wiper rain sensor malfunctioning. Manual wipers work, but repair for convenience.
Green Indicator Lights (Information Only)
High Beam On
High beam headlights are activated for better night visibility. No action needed; switch to low beam when approaching traffic.
Turn Signal
Indicates left or right turn signal is on. Reminds you to turn it off after use.
Front Fog Lights
Front fog lights are switched on for low visibility. Turn off when not needed to save battery.
Parking Lights
Sidelights or parking lights are on. Informational for low-light parking.
Low Beam On
Low beam headlights are active. Standard for normal driving; no action needed.
Hazard Lights
Hazard warning lights are flashing. Use for emergencies; turn off when done.
Speed Limiter Active
Speed limiter is set and active. Prevents exceeding set speed; adjust as needed.
Park Assist Active
Parking sensors or assist is on. Helps with maneuvering; turn off if not parking.
Rain Sensing Wipers On
Automatic wipers are active based on rain. Adjust sensitivity if needed.
Heated Seats On
Seat heaters are activated. Comfort feature; turn off when warm.
Defrost Active
Window defroster is on. Clears fog or ice; switch off when clear.
Auto Stop-Start On
Engine auto stop-start is enabled for fuel saving. No action; restarts on acceleration.
4WD Engaged
Four-wheel drive mode is active. For off-road or slippery conditions; switch as needed.
Hill Descent Control
Assists in controlled downhill driving. Informational when activated.
Tow Mode On
Towing mode is selected for better performance. Use when towing; no further action.
When looking at Holden, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Holden Barina, Holden Captiva, Holden Caprice, and Holden Astra. Understanding dashboard warning lights is essential. Our expert reviews break down what each light means, highlighting common alerts for these models and what they could signal about underlying issues, so you’re never left guessing behind the wheel.
