Experts have warned of the warning lights you should never ignore in your car, especially during the winter. With long-range forecasts predicting freezing, wet and windy conditions across the UK, temporary insurance experts at Tempcover have reminded drivers of the warning signs they should pay immediate attention to.
And they have detailed what each of the warning signs mean, from oil pressure and brake fluid warnings to airbag and engine warning lights.
Here, the insurance company has put together a guide detailing the warning lights you should never ignore. For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter.
Oil pressure warning
Oil pressure warning light -Credit:Shutterstock
Tempcover says: “If the oil pressure light comes on, it could indicate anything from low oil levels to a fault within the engine. Ignoring this could lead to serious engine damage, as low oil or pressure issues can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s performance. Tip: Should the light illuminate while you’re driving, pull over and stop as soon as possible. Call a mechanic or roadside assistance for help.”
ABS/ Brake fluid warnings
An ABS warning -Credit:Shutterstock
Tempcover says: “If you see the ABS or brake fluid warning light, it could mean there’s an issue with the brake pads or sensors, potentially risking brake failure. Properly working brakes are vital for safe driving, so don’t ignore this signal. Tip: Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated to aid in braking—a critical part of driving safety. Pull over as soon as the warning light appears and get in touch with a mechanic immediately.”
Diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning light
A diesel particulate filter (DPF) warning light -Credit:Shutterstock
Tempcover says: “Diesel vehicles may experience a build-up of soot in the exhaust, which can block airflow. Typically, diesel engines have a ‘regenerator’ to burn off this soot, but it only activates at certain speeds. In cold weather, this may not be ideal, so don’t risk ignoring this light. Tip: In warmer weather, drive at a steady 40 mph or higher for about 10 minutes to prompt regeneration. However, in winter, it’s better to consult a mechanic rather than attempt this.”
Airbag warning light
Tempcover says: “If the airbag warning light appears, it suggests a fault with the airbag system or the seatbelt mechanism, often indicating the airbag requires a reset, or there’s an issue with the wiring or battery. Tip: When you see this light, either pull over immediately or carefully drive to the nearest garage. The airbags won’t deploy if this warning is active, which could be dangerous in a crash, so it’s best not to drive with this light on.”
ECU/ Engine warning light
ECU/ Engine warning light -Credit:Siarhei Kuranets/Shutterstock
Tempcover says: “Many ECU systems use amber or red coding to indicate fault severity. A red light indicates a major issue, so stop the vehicle and call for breakdown assistance right away. Tip: An amber light usually signifies an emissions issue. It’s generally safe to continue driving, but book an appointment with a mechanic when you reach your destination.” Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news. You will receive updates from us daily.