Understanding dashboard warning lights in your Volkswagen T5-T6 Transporter is essential for safety and preventing mechanical issues.
These indicators use a color-coded system: red signals critical problems requiring immediate stops, yellow/amber warns of upcoming maintenance needs, and green confirms active systems. Below is a complete guide tailored to the T5/T6 Transporter:
Quick Navigation
Red Warning Lights (Stop Immediately)
Brake System Alert
Low brake fluid or hydraulic failure. Park safely and contact a mechanic immediately.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning
Low oil pressure or overheating. Stop driving, check oil levels, and seek professional help.
Airbag & Belt Tensioners Fault
Malfunction in airbag or seatbelt systems. Urgently inspect to ensure passenger safety.
Engine Coolant Temperature Alert
Engine overheating. Turn off the engine, let it cool, and check coolant levels.
Seat Belt Reminder
Unbuckled driver or passenger seatbelt. Secure belts immediately to reduce injury risk.
Door/Bonnet/Tailgate Open
Open door, bonnet, or boot detected. Stop and ensure all closures are secure.
Charging System Fault
Battery or alternator failure. Avoid driving to prevent stalling.
Immobiliser System Fault
Key recognition issue. Verify key proximity or contact a dealer.
Stop Engine Warning
Critical engine malfunction. Turn off the engine immediately to prevent damage.
Manual Parking Brake Alert
Parking brake engaged or low clutch fluid. Release brake or top up fluid.
Anti-Theft Alarm Triggered
Security system activated. Check for unauthorized access.
Engine/Transmission Electronics Fault
Potential engine damage. Limit driving and visit a garage promptly.
Power Steering Failure
Loss of steering assist. Stop driving to avoid accidents.
AdBlue Warning (Red)
No engine restart possible due to low AdBlue or system malfunction. Refill AdBlue immediately.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights (Action Required Soon)
ABS Warning
Anti-lock braking system fault. Brakes remain functional, but schedule a system check.
Brake Pads Worn
Thin brake pads detected. Replace pads promptly to maintain braking efficiency.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Fault
Traction control issue. Drive cautiously and repair soon.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Full
Clogged filter in diesel models. Regenerate or clean the filter.
Low Washer Fluid
Windshield washer reservoir low. Refill soon for clear visibility.
Speed Limiter Active
Speed restriction engaged. Deactivate via controls if needed.
Ultrasonic Parking Assist Fault
Sensor obstruction or failure. Clean sensors or visit a garage.
Unintended Lane Change Alert
Vehicle drifting lanes. Adjust steering and check alignment.
Emission Control System Fault
Exceeding emission limits. Inspect engine or catalytic converter.
Fuel Filter Warning
Contaminated diesel fuel. Drain water to prevent engine damage.
Tyre Pressure Loss
Low tyre pressure. Inflate to the recommended PSI.
Power Steering Reduced
Overheating or calibration needed. Allow cooling or recalibrate.
Adaptive Lighting Fault
Headlight alignment issue. Adjust or repair headlights.
Preheating Activated (Diesel)
Glow plugs warming up. Wait before starting the engine.
Green Warning Lights (Information Only)
Eco Mode Active
Fuel-efficient driving enabled. No action required.
Cruise Control Engaged
Speed maintained automatically. Deactivate via stalk or brake.
Winter Mode On
Optimized traction for snow/ice. Deactivate when conditions improve.
Sport Mode Enabled
Enhanced throttle response. Switch modes via drive selector.
Fog Lights On
Front/rear fog lights activated. Turn off when visibility improves.
Automatic Headlights
Lights adjust to ambient light. Manual override available.
Hill Start Assist Active
Prevents rollback on inclines. Releases when accelerator is pressed.
Distance Indicator
Safe following distance maintained. Adjust via cruise settings.
Vehicle Ready
Hybrid system operational (if equipped). Begin driving normally.
4×4 High/Low Mode
Four-wheel-drive system engaged. Switch modes based on terrain.
Turn Signals Active
Indicators or hazard lights in use. Purely informational.
When looking at Volkswagen, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Volkswagen ID-Series, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Volkswagen Up. 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.
This guide prioritizes clarity and actionable steps, using direct language for quick decision-making. Always refer to your owner’s manual for model-specific details or additional warnings unique to your T5/T6 Transporter variant.
