Understanding every dashboard symbol keeps you safer, prevents breakdowns, and avoids costly repairs. If a light glows, it’s your car’s way of speaking: act fast on red, schedule service for amber, and treat green as helpful reminders.
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Red (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Oil isn’t circulating. Pull over, shut off engine, check level, and arrange a tow if oil is low or a leak is visible.
Brake System
Hydraulic pressure or brake fluid is low. Stop in a safe spot and call roadside assistance.
Engine Coolant Overheat
Temperature is too high. Park, switch off, wait for engine to cool, then check coolant level.
Battery Charging
Alternator isn’t charging. Switch off non-essential electrics and head to a workshop before the engine stalls.
Airbag (SRS)
Fault in restraint system. Avoid long trips; airbags may not deploy in a crash.
Seatbelt Reminder
Driver or passenger belt unfastened. Buckle up before moving.
Door Ajar
One or more doors not fully closed. Stop, open, and firmly shut each door.
Hood Ajar
Bonnet not latched. Pull over and secure it to prevent it flying open.
Trunk Ajar
Tailgate open. Stop and close to avoid exhaust fumes or cargo loss.
Parking Brake Engaged
Handbrake is on or not fully released. Release it completely before driving.
Low Brake Fluid
Reservoir below minimum. Do not continue; brakes may fail.
Power Steering Failure
Electric or hydraulic assist lost. Steering feels heavy—stop soon and seek repair.
Stop Lamp Failure
Brake lights not working. Other drivers can’t see you slowing—fix immediately.
Engine Overspeed
RPM exceeded safe limit. Ease off throttle; prolonged overspeed can ruin the engine.
Master Warning (Red Triangle)
Multiple critical faults detected. Park safely and request towing.
Yellow / Amber (Action Required Soon)
Check Engine (MIL)
Emission or engine control issue. Car may run but needs diagnosis soon.
ABS
Anti-lock braking inactive. Brakes work but can lock in hard stops; book service.
ESC / ESP
Stability control disabled. Drive cautiously and inspect system.
Tyre Pressure (TPMS)
One or more tyres under-inflated. Check pressures and inflate to spec.
Traction Control OFF
System turned off or faulty. Wheel spin is possible—re-enable or service.
Glow Plug (Diesel)
Heaters warming cylinders. Wait for it to go out before starting; stays on means fault.
DPF Regeneration Needed
Diesel filter clogged. Drive at steady highway speed to clear; if persistent, visit service centre.
Transmission Temperature
Gearbox too hot. Shift to neutral, idle to cool, then have fluid and cooling checked.
Lane Departure Warning
Camera can’t read lanes or detects drift. Clean windshield and stay centred; recalibrate if needed.
Forward Collision Warning
Sensor blocked or fault detected. Clean radar area and test; repair if light stays on.
Low Fuel
Tank near empty. Refuel promptly to avoid pump damage.
Water in Fuel
Diesel water separator full. Drain system to prevent engine damage.
Rear Fog Lamp ON
High-intensity rear fog light active. Switch off when visibility improves.
Green (Information Only)
Turn Signal
Indicator flashing means direction signal active.
High Beam
Main beams on; dim when traffic approaches.
Low Beam
Standard headlights engaged for night driving.
Position / Parking Lights
Side lamps active for visibility when parked.
Front Fog Lamps
Low-level front fog lights on for poor visibility.
ECO Mode
Economy program active, adjusting throttle and transmission for better mileage.
Cruise Control ON
System armed; set speed not yet chosen.
Auto Hold
Brakes held automatically at stops; press accelerator to release.
Daytime Running Lights
DRLs on for daylight visibility; no user action needed.
Ready (Hybrid/EV)
System powered and silent, vehicle can move.
Speed Limiter
Car won’t exceed set speed until override.
4WD Lock Engaged
All-wheel-drive lock activated for slippery conditions.
Parking Assist Active
Ultrasonic sensors monitoring distance while manoeuvring.
When looking at Hyundai, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Hyundai Santro, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Elantra, and Hyundai Tucson. 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.
