Understanding dashboard warning lights in your Volkswagen Golf is essential for maintaining vehicle safety, as they alert you to potential issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns.
Ignoring these lights can result in costly repairs or unsafe driving conditions, so familiarizing yourself with them helps ensure timely maintenance and prevents minor problems from escalating.
Always consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for specific guidance when a light appears.
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Red (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Low oil pressure can cause engine damage from lack of lubrication or overheating. Stop the vehicle safely, turn off the engine, check oil level, and add oil if needed; do not drive until resolved, seek mechanic help.
Brake System Alert
Indicates low brake fluid, hydraulic failure, or system malfunction affecting stopping power. Pull over immediately, check fluid level, and contact a mechanic or roadside assistance; avoid driving.
Engine Coolant Temperature
High coolant temperature or low level risking engine overheating. Stop the car, let it cool, check coolant level, and add if necessary; visit a service center promptly.
Battery Charge
Alternator or battery failure leading to loss of electrical power. Stop driving, turn off non-essential electrics, and get the system checked by a professional.
Power Steering Failure
Loss of power steering assist making steering difficult or impossible. Stop immediately in a safe spot and have the steering system inspected at a service center.
Airbag System Fault
Airbag or seatbelt pretensioner malfunction compromising safety in a crash. Stop and have the system diagnosed and repaired right away.
Seatbelt Reminder
Driver or passenger not buckled up, increasing injury risk. Stop and ensure all seatbelts are fastened before continuing.
Door Ajar
One or more doors not fully closed, which could open while driving. Pull over, check and secure all doors properly.
Transmission Overheat
Transmission temperature too high, risking damage. Stop, allow cooling in park, and seek service if it persists.
AdBlue No Restart
AdBlue fluid exhausted or system fault preventing engine start. Stop, refill AdBlue, or visit a mechanic to avoid being stranded.
Hybrid System Error
Fault in hybrid drive system causing potential failure. Stop safely and have the vehicle towed to a service center.
Central Warning Lamp
General serious fault requiring attention. Stop and read the instrument cluster message, then seek immediate professional help.
Steering Lock Malfunction
Electronic steering lock failure preventing safe control. Stop the vehicle and contact a service center.
Ignition Switch Fault
Ignition or starter malfunction. Stop driving and have it inspected to prevent stranding.
Front Assist Collision Warning
Imminent collision detected. Brake or evade immediately, then check system if light stays on.
Yellow/Amber (Action Required Soon)
ABS Fault
Anti-lock braking system malfunction reducing braking efficiency. Drive carefully and visit a service center soon for repairs.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
Low tyre pressure or system fault affecting handling and safety. Check and inflate tyres to recommended levels, or get the system checked.
Check Engine Light
Engine management issue like sensor failure or emissions problem. Reduce speed, avoid heavy load, and schedule a diagnostic check.
Airbag Deactivated
Passenger airbag switched off, often for child seats. Ensure it’s intentional; reactivate if needed or consult a mechanic.
Coolant Level Low
Coolant below safe level, risking overheating. Top up coolant and monitor for leaks; see a service center if it recurs.
Glow Plug System
Diesel pre-glow fault delaying start. Wait for light to go out; if it flashes, visit a mechanic for engine check.
Brake Fluid Low
Brake fluid level insufficient for safe braking. Top up fluid and inspect for leaks; seek professional help.
DPF Clogged
Diesel particulate filter blocked with soot, affecting performance. Drive at higher speeds to regenerate, or visit service if needed.
ESP Fault
Electronic stability program malfunction reducing traction control. Drive carefully and have it repaired soon.
Transmission Fault
Gearbox issue like sensor failure. Limit driving and get a diagnostic at a service center.
Eco Mode Inactive
Eco driving mode not functioning, possibly due to system error. Check settings or consult a mechanic if it persists.
Washer Fluid Low
Windshield washer fluid level too low. Refill the reservoir to maintain visibility.
Lane Assist Fault
Lane keeping system not available. Drive attentively and have it checked.
Rear Fog Light On
Rear fog light activated, but check if needed. Turn off when visibility improves.
Emergency Call System Fault
Emergency assist system limited or faulty. Get it repaired for safety features.
Rain/Light Sensor Fault
Sensor for automatic wipers or lights malfunctioning. Manually control and service soon.
Green (Information Only)
Cruise Control Active
Cruise control system engaged, maintaining set speed. No action needed unless adjusting speed.
Speed Limiter Active
Speed limiter set and operational, capping maximum speed. Adjust as needed via controls.
Daytime Running Lights
Daytime lights are on for visibility. No action required.
High Beam On
High beam headlights activated. Dim when approaching other vehicles.
Front Fog Lights
Front fog lights switched on for low visibility. Turn off when conditions improve.
Parking Lights
Side or parking lights are active. Ensure they’re off when parked to save battery.
Turn Signal
Indicator lights flashing for turns or hazards. No action if intentional.
Speed Regulation Due to Road Layout
Adjusting speed for curves or road features. Drive attentively.
Bicycle Carrier Turn Signal
Turn signals active with bike carrier attached. Ensure proper function.
Rear Traffic Alert Active
Monitoring for cross-traffic when reversing. Proceed with caution.
Emergency Assist Intervention
System assisting in emergency situations. Acknowledge and take control.
Speed Regulation Due to Junction
Slowing for upcoming intersection. Be prepared to brake or accelerate.
Electronic Engine Sound Active
Simulated sound for electric or hybrid mode. No action needed.
Travel Assist Active
Assisted driving mode engaged. Keep hands on wheel and eyes on road.
When looking at Volkswagen, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Volkswagen Transporter, Volkswagen ID-Series, Volkswagen T5-T6 Transporter, and Volkswagen Passat. 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.
