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Video on the dashboard warning lights
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Starting the car.
When you start the car you will see some warning lights come on, but don't worry this is normal. It's just a routine check to show that they're all functioning. If certain warning lights stay on after 5 seconds of starting the car then there is a problem.
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Warning lights and indicators
Generally, red lights mean that there's a serious problem and you should stop your car as soon as it's safe to. If it's critical then it might also flash. Once you've stopped in a safe place, it's time to check your cars manual to find out if it's safe to carry on driving.
Amber or yellow lights generally mean that something requires attention when possible or needs servicing.
Green and blue lights confirm activation, such as your main beam headlights are on.
In this Ford Fiesta, further information is sometimes displayed on the screen above.
Anti-lock Braking System Warning Light
If this one illuminates, then it means that you have a malfunction with your anti-lock braking system. The normal braking system will operate unless the brake system warning light is also illuminated. Get it checked when possible.Brake System Warning Light
When your ignition or engine is on and you're stationary, you'll see this light which means the parking brake (handbrake) is on. If you see this light when driving then make sure that the parking brake isn't still on, if it isn't then it means either low brake fluid or a brake system malfunction. Get your car checked immediately. Driving with this warning light on is dangerous.Cruise Control Indicator
This will illuminate when you have cruise control activated.Direction Indicators
These are your left or right direction indicators or the hazard warning lights. They'll flash when turned on. If the indicators stay on or flash faster than normal then check for any bulbs that aren't working.Door Ajar
You will see this light if the bonnet, boot or any door hasn't been closed properly.Engine Coolant Warning Light
There's a malfunction if this stays on after starting the engine or when driving. It's important to stop your car as soon as it's safe to and switch off your engine. Let your engine cool down for about 20 minutes and check your coolant level. If you have the correct coolant level and this still illuminates then switch your engine off and don't continue on with your journey. Have your car checked by an authorised Ford dealer.Engine Oil Warning Light
If this comes on when the engine is running or whilst you're driving then there's a malfunction. Pull up as soon as it's safe and switch off your engine. Check the oil level but don't continue driving if the oil level is correct and this light is still on. Have your car checked by an authorised Ford dealer.Engine Warning Lights
If either of these lights are on when the engine is running then there's a malfunction. Your car will continue to run but it may have limited power.If it flashes when you're driving then slow down as soon as it's safe to. If it continues to flash then avoid heavy acceleration or deceleration. Have your car checked immediately.
If both lights are on together then stop your car as soon as it's safe. Switch the engine and ignition off and try to restart the engine. If it doesn't restart then have your car checked immediately by an authorised Ford dealer.
There are so many different warning lights and indicators. If you ignore an important warning light then you could put your safety at risk or end up with an expensive car repair bill.
You can find certain dashboard lights in all cars and some are more specific for the make and model. We'll explain what each of the dashboard lights and indicators are in our manual, diesel Ford Fiesta & Ford Puma but always check in your owners manual as there might be some differences.