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Home Ireland Dashboard warning lights explained

Car problem · what to do

Dashboard warning lights explained

Colour is the language: red means stop or act now, amber means get it checked soon, green/blue is information. When in doubt, the handbook and a local diagnostic read beat guessing.

Do this now

  • Red lights (oil pressure, temperature, brakes, battery, steering): stop safely and act — these are the ones that end engines or braking
  • Amber (engine, ABS, TPMS, DPF, traction): book a check soon; note when it lit
  • Any light with changed behaviour — noises, smells, power loss — is urgent whatever the colour

What to avoid

  • Tape over the light as a repair strategy
  • Battery disconnects to clear lights before a test — testers and buyers both see through it

Fix problems like this for a living?

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Frequently asked questions

Which warning lights mean stop immediately?

Red oil pressure, red temperature, red battery/charging, red brake with a soft pedal, and steering warnings. Safe stop, engine off, get help where the car stands.

Can I have warning lights read locally?

Yes — garages and mobile mechanics read fault codes and live data. The read is quick; the value is knowing which fix is real before parts are bought.

Do warning lights fail the NCT?

A lit malfunction indicator, airbag or ABS warning is checked in the test. Fix causes, not symptoms, before test day.

Written and reviewed by the Escargo team · Updated 9 August 2026 · Escargo shows real local businesses only — where none is listed yet, the page says so honestly.