Car Warning Lights

It's definitely not pleasant to get stranded in a car that has run out of fuel or has a dead battery, but it's even less so if it happens with your rented car abroad.

For a quick refresh, we've compiled a list of common warning lights that might help you avoid unpleasant and potentially dangerous situations. Cut out and keep this handy.
 

Red Warning Lights

◾ Coolant Level:

Indicates the engine is overheated, possibly due to low coolant. Be cautious about opening the radiator cap while the engine is hot to avoid severe burns.
 

◾Low Oil Pressure:

This light indicates the engine is low on oil, which could lead to serious engine problems. Check and refill the engine oil if necessary.
 

◾ Brake System:

This light can signal the need to release the handbrake. In some cases, it may indicate worn brake pads or low brake fluid. Another reason might be a fault in the ABS system; if this system fails, the battery light may also appear.
 

◾ Battery:

Indicates an issue with the vehicle's electrical system.
 

◾ Overheated Brake System:

Carefully stop on the side of the road and allow the system to cool down before continuing your journey.
 

◾ Transmission Temperature:

This light suggests a malfunction or excessively high temperature in the gearbox. Allow the system to cool down in such cases.
 

◾ Open Door:

Ensure all vehicle doors are securely closed before continuing your drive.

Yellow Warning Lights

◾ Low Fuel Gauge:

The fuel level is low and requires refilling soon.
 

◾ Emission System:

Indicates a potential issue with the engine or emission system. The issue doesn't demand immediate stopping, but should be checked as soon as possible.
 

◾ Rear Fog Light On:

Remember to turn it off when no longer needed.
Tire Pressure: Indicates an abnormal tire pressure or a fault in the tire pressure monitoring system. After inflating, press and hold the SET button until the light turns off.
 

◾ Brake Pads:

Signals issues with the brake pads, sometimes indicating the need to replace the brake discs or brake fluid.
Rear Defogger: Remember to switch off the defogger once the fog has cleared.
 

◾External Light:

Indicates a fault in an external light, possibly a burnt-out bulb.
 

◾ Internal Combustion Engine:

Common in diesel vehicles, this light can indicate a problem that might affect the vehicle's driving capability.
 

◾ Engine Oil Level:

This light suggests the need to top up the engine oil to the desired level.
 

◾Low Windshield Fluid Level:

Similar to the previous light, this one indicates the need to refill the windshield fluid.
 

◾ Airbag:

Indicates a malfunction in the airbag system.
 

◾ Seat Belt:

Signals that a passenger is not buckled up or there's a fault in the seatbelt system.
 

◾Stability Control System (ESP):

A flashing light means the system is active. A continuously lit light could indicate a fault in the ESP system.
 

◾ Battery:

Indicates a charging system or alternator malfunction, suggesting that the battery is not receiving power and the vehicle may shut down soon.

Green and Blue Warning Lights

◾ Low Engine Temperatures:

Typically lights up during the initial start-up of the vehicle or in extremely cold weather.
 

◾ Fog Lights:

Indicates the front fog lights are on, which aids visibility in suboptimal conditions.
 

◾Brake Pedal:

This light comes on when there's a need to press the brake to start the vehicle or to shift into Drive.
 

Ofran wishes you a safe and pleasant and safe journey with your rental car abroad.