You’re not alone if you’ve ever been behind the wheel of your Citroën C4 Picasso or Grand C4 Picasso and been startled by a mysterious dashboard warning light. In fact, a staggering 70% of drivers admit to having ignored a dashboard warning light at some point.
But ignoring these warnings can lead to costly repairs, or worse, safety risks. So, what do these lights really mean, and how can you prioritize your response?
From urgent red lights to low-urgency blue/green lights, understanding the warning light system is vital to staying safe on the road – and that’s exactly what we’re about to investigate.
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Colour Scheme and Urgency
Blue or Green Symbols indicate a system is in operation. Amber or Yellow Symbols indicate a system is switched off or requires maintenance. Red Symbols indicate a fault requiring immediate attention, often accompanied by flashing lights and an audible alarm.
Citroën C4 Picasso Warning Lights
Regularly consulting your Citroën C4 Picasso’s dashboard warning lights ensures your vehicle operates safely and efficiently.
Blue or Green Lights indicate a system is in operation. Amber or Yellow Lights signal maintenance is required. Red Lights indicate a fault requiring immediate attention, often accompanied by an audible alarm.
Warning Light Categories Explained
Most Citroën C4 Picasso dashboard warning lights fall into one of three categories: urgent, medium-urgency, and low-urgency.
Urgent lights
Often red, indicate a serious fault that requires immediate attention, such as a braking or power steering system failure.
Medium-Urgency lights
Usually amber, signal a minor fault that needs attention, like low tyre pressure.
Low-Urgency lights
Typically blue or green, indicate a minor issue, like a system in operation.
Urgent Warning Lights Meaning
You’re faced with a critical situation when an urgent warning light illuminates on your Citroën C4 Picasso’s dashboard.
BRAKE or ABS Lights
Indicate a potential braking system failure. Immediate brake failure analysis may be required to ensure safety.
Engine Fault Light
Signals a possible engine malfunction. Timely engine diagnosis is crucial to prevent damage to the catalytic converter.
Oil Can Light
Warns of low oil pressure. Stop immediately to avoid severe engine damage.
Coolant Light
Suggests overheating or low coolant levels. Turn off the engine to prevent major issues.
Battery Charging System Light
Points to a charging system failure. Stop and investigate to avoid a complete breakdown.
Medium-Urgency Warning Lights
While urgent warning lights demand immediate attention, medium-urgency warning lights indicate minor faults that still require prompt resolution.
Tyre Pressure Light
Suggests low tyre pressure. Check and adjust the tyre pressure to maintain safe driving conditions.
SERVICE Light
Signals a minor fault or the need for general maintenance. Investigate the underlying issue.
Low-Urgency Warning Lights Guide
Low-urgency warning lights indicate minor issues that don’t pose an immediate threat to your safety or the vehicle’s operation.
Foot on Clutch Light
Prompts you to press the clutch for smoother gear changes. Adjust driving habits accordingly.
Brake Pedal Light
Reminds you to press the brake pedal when starting the vehicle. Follow the prompt to initiate safe vehicle operation.
SERVICE Indicator
Suggests a routine check or upcoming maintenance is needed. Schedule a maintenance visit at your convenience.
Common Issues and Solutions
Frequently, Citroën C4 Picasso / Grand C4 Picasso owners encounter common issues that trigger warning lights on their dashboard.
Faulty Sensors
Incorrect sensor readings may cause warning lights to illuminate unnecessarily. Have the sensors checked and recalibrated.
Parking Brake Issues
The electric parking brake may malfunction or fail to release fully. Inspect and repair the parking brake system.
AdBlue and Engine Faults
One of the most critical systems in your Citroën C4 Picasso / Grand C4 Picasso is the AdBlue system.
AdBlue Warning Light
Low AdBlue levels. Refill the AdBlue tank promptly to maintain the system’s effectiveness.
Engine Fault Warning Light
Problems within the engine management system. Diagnose the issue immediately to prevent further damage.
Other Critical Lights
Hybrid System Warning Light
Illuminates when the hybrid propulsion system detects a critical fault. The vehicle may enter limp mode – reduce speed immediately and seek professional diagnosis to prevent high-voltage system damage.
12V Battery Saver Mode
Activates when the auxiliary battery charge is critically low. Non-essential systems will shut off automatically. Charge or replace the battery to restore full functionality.
Automatic Emergency Braking Fault
Indicates the collision avoidance system is disabled. The system won’t automatically brake for obstacles. Maintain safe following distances until repaired.
Lane Departure Malfunction
Warns when lane keeping assist is unavailable. Camera obstruction or system error detected. Clean windshield near camera module to restore functionality.
Air Quality Sensor Warning
Signals the cabin pollution sensor isn’t functioning. Automatic air recirculation may not activate properly. Have sensor cleaned or replaced.
PTC Heater Failure (EV models)
Indicates the electric cabin heater isn’t working. Defrosting and heating performance will be reduced in cold weather.
Trailer Light Connection Fault
Detects issues with trailer wiring. Check connections and bulb functionality before towing. The system monitors trailer light circuits.
Hill Start Assist Disabled
Appears when the incline start aid isn’t available. The vehicle may roll back on hills – use parking brake for assistance.
Onboard Charger Fault
Indicates AC charging system malfunction. The vehicle may not charge from wall outlets. DC fast charging may still work.
Regenerative Braking Limited
Shows when energy recovery is reduced, typically due to battery temperature. Normal friction brakes remain fully operational.
Always consult your owner’s manual when warning lights appear and seek professional diagnosis for persistent warnings to maintain your C4 Picasso’s performance, safety and longevity. The vehicle’s advanced diagnostic systems provide detailed fault codes that help technicians quickly identify and resolve issues.
