National Highways dashboard warning lights guidance

Indicators on your vehicle dashboard use a colour system—red, amber, green, white, and blue—to provide information about your car’s status.

National Highways say you should never start a journey with a red warning light flashing, as there may be a serious fault with your vehicle.

According to National Highways, a red warning light indicates there may be a “serious fault”, and drivers should not start their journey with this light showing.

If it appears while driving, National Highways advises that you should find a safe place to pull over, but emphasises that you should avoid stopping in a live lane unless absolutely necessary.

If the vehicle can be safely driven, drivers are advised to continue to a service area or the next junction for help.

Amber warning lights also cause concern, advising that the vehicle needs maintenance or a check-up.

According to National Highways, drivers should not start their journey if this light is present and follow a similar protocol as with the red warning light should it appear while driving.

Amber warning lights are advisory but should not be ignored.

Meanwhile, green, white, or blue warnings provide general information about your vehicle.

No immediate action is required for these, but it’s suggested to check their implications during your next planned stop.

Driving with a warning light is not an offence on its own under UK motoring law, but the dangerous fault it represents may lead to fines and points based on the severity.

Driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition (e.g., faulty brakes, bald tyres, dangerous modifications) carries severe penalties in the UK, including 3 penalty points and a fine of up to £2,500.

For anyone unfamiliar with a vehicle – either a new purchase or a hire – it’s wise to become familiar with the various controls and dashboard warning lights before starting your drive.

Guidance for these should be in your instruction manual or available from the manufacturer.

For more information on dashboard warning lights, you can visit the National Highways website.

By understanding what each type of dashboard warning light means, you can make better decisions to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and all road users.