Understanding every symbol on your Volkswagen Transporter’s dash helps you spot faults fast, avoid breakdowns and plan timely repairs. Colours show urgency: red = stop, amber = fix soon, green = info only.
Quick Navigation
Red (Stop Immediately)
Engine Oil Pressure
Oil pressure has dropped; engine could seize. Stop, switch off, check oil level and call for help if light stays.
Brake System
Brake fluid low or hydraulic fault. Pull over safely and arrange repair.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Coolant too hot or level too low. Stop, let engine cool, top up only when safe.
Battery / Alternator
Charging system failed. Electrical power will fade; park and seek assistance.
Power Steering Failure
Steering assist lost; turning is heavy. Stop soon and get system inspected.
Airbag System Fault
Crash restraints may not work. Park, switch off and book diagnostics.
Transmission Overheat
DSG gearbox too hot. Stop, shift to P, let it cool; visit workshop if light returns.
Parking Brake Engaged
Electronic parking brake still on. Release before driving; if stuck, call service.
Seatbelt Unfastened
Driver or passenger belt open. Buckle up before moving.
Door Open
A door isn’t shut. Stop and close firmly.
Bonnet Open
Engine hood not latched. Pull over and secure it.
Tailgate Open
Rear lid unsecured. Stop and close properly.
Differential Lock Malfunction
Lock fault detected; drivetrain at risk. Discontinue off-road use and have it checked.
AdBlue No Restart
AdBlue empty or system fault; engine will not restart after shut-down. Refill or seek service now.
Central Warning
Red exclamation shows a serious fault. Read dash message and follow it or call for help.
Yellow / Amber (Action Required Soon)
Engine Control Fault
Engine management problem; power may drop. Book service soon.
ABS Malfunction
Anti-lock brakes inactive; braking may skid. Drive with care and repair promptly.
ESC / ASR Fault
Stability or traction control limited. Proceed cautiously and schedule service.
Tyre Pressure Low
One or more tyres soft or sensor fault. Check pressures, fix punctures and reset system.
Glow Plug System Fault
Flashing coil shows diesel pre-heat failure. Hard starts likely; have plugs or wiring checked.
Diesel Particulate Filter
Filter clogged with soot. Drive at steady revs to regenerate or book cleaning.
Bulb Failure
A lamp has blown. Replace failed bulb to stay legal.
Low Fuel
Tank near empty. Refuel promptly.
Washer Fluid Low
Screen-wash almost gone. Top up at next stop.
Rain Sensor Fault
Automatic wipers disabled. Use manual setting and arrange repair.
Lane Assist Not Available
System cannot operate due to sensor issue. Clean camera; service if warning stays.
Adaptive Cruise Control N/A
ACC unavailable; sensors blocked or fault. Clean radar or visit dealer.
Front Assist N/A
Collision-avoid system off because of fault or blockage. Clean emblem and check system.
Hill Start Assist Fault
Hill-hold may not work; use handbrake on slopes and get diagnosis.
Green (Information Only)
Lane Assist Active
Lane keeping is gently steering; no action needed.
Speed Limiter Active
Limiter holding set speed; press hard or cancel to override.
Bicycle Carrier Turn Signal
Shows trailer/bike-rack indicators are flashing correctly.
Speed Regulation – Road Layout
Adaptive system slowing for upcoming bend; stay alert.
Speed Regulation – Roundabout
Assist reduces speed for roundabout ahead; be ready to brake.
Speed Regulation – Junction
System eases speed for junction; monitor surroundings.
Speed Regulation – Limit Cancelled
Car resumes previous speed after limit ends; watch new signs.
Speed Regulation – End of Traffic Jam
Assist accelerates as queue clears; keep hands on wheel.
Front Fog Lights On
Front fog lamps lit; switch off when visibility improves.
Parking Lights On
Side lights active while parked; no action required.
Daytime Running Lights On
Automatic running lights are on for visibility; system normal.
High-Voltage Battery Charging
Icon confirms traction battery is charging at the plug; wait until complete.
Rear Fog Light On
Rear fog engaged; turn off when not needed to avoid glare.
Diesel Pre-Glow Active
Solid coil indicates glow plugs heating; start engine when it goes out.
When looking at Volkswagen, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Volkswagen ID-Series, Volkswagen T5-T6 Transporter, Volkswagen Passat, and Volkswagen Tiguan. 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.
