Understanding every symbol on your Ford F-250’s dashboard is vital: the lights act as an early-warning system, alerting you to problems before they become dangerous or expensive. Knowing which colour demands an immediate stop, a prompt visit to a workshop, or merely informs you helps keep both you and your truck safe.
Quick Navigation
Red Lights — Stop Immediately
Engine Oil Pressure
Oil flow has dropped or temperature spiked; pull over, shut off, check level, add oil or call for help.
Brake System
Hydraulic loss or parking brake on; stop safely, inspect fluid, seek professional repair.
Coolant Temperature
Engine overheating; pull over, let it cool, check coolant, do not drive until fixed.
Charging System
Alternator not charging the battery; switch off extras and reach a workshop or arrange towing.
Airbag Fault
Serious restraint system issue; avoid long trips and book repair right away.
Powertrain Malfunction
Major engine or gearbox fault; power may reduce—park, restart if safe, contact a dealer.
Diesel Particulate Filter Saturated
Filter near blockage; stop soon and follow regeneration guide or visit service.
Low Brake Fluid
Reservoir level low; braking power at risk—add correct fluid or tow for repair.
Electric Power Steering Failure
Steering assist lost; effort rises sharply—pull over and arrange inspection.
Engine Overheat Shutdown
Critical temperature reached; engine may cut power—stop immediately and allow cooldown.
Collision Alert
System senses an imminent crash; brake firmly, then check sensors before driving on.
Trailer Brake Fault
Integrated trailer brakes not working; disconnect trailer or drive slowly to service.
Seatbelt Reminder
Belt unfastened while moving; stop and buckle up.
Door Ajar
Door, hood, or tailgate open; pull over and close securely.
Parking Brake Engaged
Vehicle moving with brake on; release fully to avoid damage.
Yellow / Amber Lights — Action Required Soon
Check Engine (MIL)
Engine or emission sensor issue; note how it drives and schedule diagnostics.
ABS
Anti-lock braking disabled; standard brakes work but no skid control—service soon.
Traction Control Off / ESP
Stability aids off or faulty; drive carefully on slick roads and arrange repair.
Tyre Pressure Low
One or more tyres under-inflated; stop when safe, inflate, inspect for punctures.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid Low
DEF nearing empty; refill to prevent speed limitation.
Glow Plug
Plugs heating for cold start or fault detected; wait for light to go out, see service if flashing.
Service Engine Soon
Non-urgent fault stored; plan a workshop visit before it worsens.
Transmission Overheat
Fluid too hot; shift to neutral, idle, let cool, check load or towing weight.
Hill Descent Control Fault
Feature unavailable; control downhill speed manually and book diagnosis.
Water in Fuel
Moisture detected; drain separator promptly to protect injectors.
4WD System Fault
Transfer case or actuator issue; avoid demanding terrain until serviced.
Adaptive Cruise Sensor Blocked
Radar or camera obscured; clean dirt, ice, or snow to restore function.
Green Lights — Information Only
Turn Signal
Indicator flashing for turn or lane change; cancel after manoeuvre.
Headlamps On
Low-beam lights active; remember to turn off when parked.
High Beam
Main beams engaged; dim for oncoming traffic.
Fog Lamps
Front fog lights on; use only in poor visibility.
ECO Mode
Fuel-saving strategy active; throttle response may feel softer.
Tow / Haul Mode
Shift logic tuned for heavy loads; turn off when not towing.
Lane Keeping Aid Active
System applies gentle steering to stay in lane; keep hands on wheel.
Speed Limiter Set
Truck capped at selected speed; press accelerator firmly or toggle switch to override.
Auto Start-Stop
Engine paused at idle to save fuel; restarts automatically on pedal lift.
Parking Lights
Side and tail lamps on for dusk or parking.
Hill Descent Control Active
System holding steady downhill speed; steer carefully.
When looking at Ford, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Ford Windstar, Ford Freestar, Ford Tourneo, and Ford Ecosport. 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.
