Models where it applies: Grand California
It’s important to know what car dashboard warning lights mean because you might be able to avoid a car breakdown or full-on failure.
This guide will give you the know how you need to understand what the different yellow and red warning lights on your dashboard mean, why they come on, how urgent the problem is and what you should do when you see them.
The car warning lights on your dashboard follow a traffic light color system:
- Green: The system is functioning properly or is actively in use.
- Yellow: There’s a malfunction - exercise caution and have it checked promptly.
- Red: A serious and potentially dangerous issue - stop driving as soon as it’s safe to do so
- Gray: Indication that the system is available.
Warning light |
Name |
Description |
Airbag Warning Lamp |
Also known as the supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning light. The light appears in yellow and it is the Indicator Light that means the Airbag or belt tensioner system is switched off or has a system fault. The word OFF next to the Airbag symbol indicates that the front passenger's front airbag is switched OFF. This word ON next to the Airbag symbol means the front passenger's front airbag is switched ON. If the Airbag system and / or belt tensioner system is ON and this light is appearing, this means that at least one element of the airbag safety system is not working correctly:
Can I still drive with my Airbag Warning Lamp ON? If this light comes on please get in touch with roadside assistance. |
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ABS Warning Lamp |
Also know as ABS (Anti-lock Braking system) is an add-on safety system to the van’s regular brakes. ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking when under hard braking. If ABS fails, normal brakes are unaffected, though they operate without ABS. The most common cause for ABS warning light is a damaged wheel speed sensor. Diagnostics and fault code scanning should determine the malfunction.
Can I still drive with my ABS Warning Lamp ON? If the ABS light comes on by itself you should still have normal, unassisted braking, so it's safe to continue your journey – but keep your distance, take extra care, and get it checked as soon as possible. If it comes on with the brake warning light
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Handbrake Engaged Warning Lamp |
Also known as brake system warning light, parking brake warning light. Your handbrake brake is engaged. It can be disengaged manually, or your vehicle may have a handbrake that is disengaged with your foot. The symbol |
Check the brake pad wear warning light |
If this symbol appears, it means that a sensor has detected that the brake pads are too thin. Can I drive with the brake pad wear warning light on? This car warning light should come on before the brake pads become dangerously thin. You will be able to see the outer pad by looking through the spokes of the wheel - the outer pad will be pressed against the brake disk. There should be at least 3 mm of pad visible. Keep your speed down and avoid braking sharply, contact roadside assistance. |
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Check Brake Fluid Warning Lamp |
This means your brake fluid has become low and may require topping up. It indicates that there is an issue with the brake fluid level or the brake system in general. Low brake fluid is a common cause, which can occur if there’s a leak in the brake lines or if the fluid has naturally worn down due to regular use. If this light comes on, it’s important to stop driving as soon as it’s safe and check the brake fluid level. If it’s low, topping it off might resolve the issue temporarily. However, if the light remains on, or if you’re unable to safely add fluid, you should contact the roadside assistance. |
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Central Warning Lamp
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It’s a generic warning where no dedicated alternative warning light is used. The general failure triangle warning light comes on due to the following:
If the light appears in red you should address the issue immediately. If the light appears in yellow you should address the issue as soon as possible. |
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Door Open Warning Lamp
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Also known as Door(s) open warning lamp It illuminates when you switch the ignition on and remains on if any door is open. It is a safety indicator on your vehicle's dashboard that alerts you when one or more doors are not fully closed. It may illuminate when any door, including the driver's side, passenger side is slightly ajar. Can I still drive with the Door Ajar Warning Lamp ON? Even if the door seems closed, it might not be fully engaged, which can lead to safety concerns such as the door opening while the vehicle is in motion or the car's security system being compromised. If the light is on while you're driving, you should pull over and check all doors to ensure they are properly shut. |
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Engine Coolant Overheating Warning Lamp |
Also known as the coolant temperature car warning light. This light will come on when the engine is overheating. This could mean that coolant levels are running low, perhaps due to a leak in the system, or it could be a sign of a larger problem, like a head gasket failure. This symbol could also indicate a fault in the high-voltage circuit. Can I still drive with my Engine Coolant Overheating Warning Lamp ON? If this light is red you should stop straight away, as without enough coolant your engine will have irreparable damage. Check that coolant levels are not below the MIN. mark on the reservoir tank. If topping up, allow time for the coolant to cool before removing the cap. While you’re under the hood, have a look to see if there are any obvious leaks. If you can’t see any and the light goes off after topping up then you should be fine to continue your journey. If the light comes back on again after topping up please stop the vehicle and get in touch with roadside assistance. |
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Engine Oil Level and Pressure Warning Lamp |
Also known as the low engine oil or low oil pressure light. The oil warning light comes on when either the oil temperature gets too high or the oil level or pressure is too low. If the oil is not lubricating the engine effectively it could lead to expensive or even irreparable engine damage, so it’s important to act quickly. If the light appears in red you should address the issue immediately. If the red light appears with the wavy line If the red light appears without the wavy line If the light appears in yellow you should address the issue as soon as possible. If the yellow light appears with the wavy line If the yellow light appears without the wavy line
Can I still drive with the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Lamp ON? When this light comes on you should stop as soon as possible and turn off the engine. Have a look for any obvious oil leaks under the car, and then check the oil levels, topping up if necessary. If the oil levels are fine, then the oil pump may be faulty. In this case get in touch with Roadside assistance. While you’re under the hood, have a look to see if there are any obvious leaks. If you can’t see any and the light goes off after topping up then you should be fine to continue your journey. |
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Engine Management Warning Lamp / Malfunction Indicator |
Also known as the check engine or ECU warning light. When the engine management light is illuminated it’s often accompanied by tell-tale signs that the engine is not working properly, such as a lack of power or stuttering as you press the accelerator. This light could indicate a number of faults, from minor issues like a broken electrical sensor to a much larger mechanical issue, like a fault with your emission control system or catalytic converter. If it illuminates when the engine is running this indicates a malfunction. If it flashes, engine misfire may be occurring. This symbol could also stand for Exhaust system fault. Increased exhaust gas temperatures could damage the diesel particulate filter or other vehicle components. Avoid heavy acceleration and deceleration. The symbol EPC will light up if there is a fault in the engine management system. This should be addressed as soon as possible, as it could interfere with the diagnosis of important problems happening in the van. How long can I drive with my Engine Management Warning Lamp ON? If the check engine light comes on you should get in touch with Roadside assistance. |
Power Steering Fault Warning Lamp |
Also known as the EPS or EPAS warning light. The steering wheel and exclamation mark indicate a problem with the power steering. Excessive usage of the steering when the vehicle is stationary, or leaving the steering on full lock while the engine is running can cause the power steering motor to overheat. If the light appears in red you should address the issue immediately. If the light appears in yellow you should address the issue as soon as possible. Can I drive with my EPS Warning Lamp ON? If you keep driving, you will notice that the car is harder to maneuver. You should stop driving. Please get in touch with Roadside assistance. |
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Collision Warning Lamp |
It illuminates if your vehicle rapidly approaches another vehicle, to warn you of the risk of a crash with the vehicle in front of you. It could illuminate red if the distance to the vehicle ahead is small. It illuminates yellow with the word OFF below the symbol when you switch the system off or if the system is not available. Can I still drive with the Pre-Collision Assist Warning Lamp ON? If the light stays on, it is still possible to drive the vehicle, but the safety features related to collision avoidance may not be active, leaving you without automatic braking or collision warning functions. While the car can still be driven, it is still important to address the issue, especially since the pre-collision system is designed to help avoid or mitigate accidents. |
SCR System Fault Warning Lamp |
Also known as Selective Catalytic Reduction |
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AdBlue Level too Low Warning Lamp |
The diesel emissions additive (AdBlue warning light comes on when levels are low. AdBlue consumption depends on driving style. When the AdBlue light come son, top up with AdBlue fluid. The AdBlue cap is next to the fuel filler cap. Always to fill the tank with at least 5 liters of AdBlue. How long can I drive with my AdBlue Warning Lamp ON? Its safe to drive but take care since the vehicle will not start when you run out of Adblue (same as with fuel). |
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Gearbox overheated Warning Lamp |
The Gearbox Overheated warning indicates that your vehicle's transmission has reached an unsafe temperature, which can lead to damage if not addressed. This means there is a gearbox fault, such as the clutch slipping, which could potentially lead to gearbox overheating. Can I still drive with my Gearbox Overheated Warning Lamp ON? If you see this warning, it's essential to stop driving as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the transmission. |
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Fasten Seatbelt Warning Lamp |
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Battery Charging System Warning Lamp |
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Lane keeping system |
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Low Fuel Level Warning Lamp |
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Water in Diesel Warning Lamp |
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Stability Control and Traction Control Indicator |
Also known as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) This warning light indicates a problem with traction control. If it’s flashing it means the ESP system is intervening – for example, if you’re driving on a slippery road. If the light stays constantly lit, it indicates a malfunction. The ESC / ASR system is reliant on wheel speed sensors and as these sensors are prone to damage The ESP light will light up with the word ‘OFF’ if the system has been deactivated, in which case you may have inadvertently turned it off. Can I still drive with my Stability Control and Traction Control Indicator ON? To check, try stopping and restarting the engine. If the light remains on after restarting get in touch with roadside assistance. |
Tire pressure Warning Lamp |
Tire pressure monitoring systems let you know when the pressure falls. This could happen over time or it could be because of a puncture. It illuminates if the tire pressure in one or more tires is below the correct tire pressure. If it does not illuminate when you switch the ignition on, or flashes when the engine is running, this indicates a malfunction in the tire pressure monitoring system. Can I still drive with my Tire Pressure Warning Lamp ON? Yes, but you should drive with extra care and aim to top up with air at the next opportunity. Low tire pressure can cause unsafe driving conditions so reduce your speed, and try to avoid braking suddenly or making any violent steering maneuvers. Most petrol stations and garages will have an air compressor you can use to check your tire pressure. Top up the air in the tires according to the vehicle manufacturer specification in your owner's manual. If you have a flat tire, please get in touch with Roadside assistance. |
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Blind Spot Monitor System Malfunction Warning Lamp |
If the blind spot warning light is on, it generally does not indicate a serious issue with the car itself, but rather an external safety condition. It could illuminate if the system is switched off. This indicates a malfunction of the Blind Spot Monitor System. When the system detects a vehicle, the indicator illuminates in the exterior mirror on the side the approaching vehicle is coming from. If you turn the direction indicator on for that side of your vehicle, the indicator flashes. Can I still drive with the Blind Spot System Malfunction Warning Lamp ON? A driver can still operate the vehicle, but should be more mindful when maneuvering, especially when switching lanes. It's important to remember that the light serves as an aid, not a replacement for checking blind spots visually. |
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Diesel engine preheating |
Also known as Glow Plugs The glow plugs light may remain lit for longer periods of time in cold conditions, but only a very short time in warm conditions. If the glow plug light remains constantly lit or flashes, it’s likely that the glow plugs and/or relay switch require replacement, meaning there is a fault in the engine management system, in the glow plug system, related to the particulate filter. When illuminating green, it is operating perfectly, but when it lights up yellow, there may be a fault. How long can I drive with my glow plugs warning light on? Its safe to drive but the vehicle needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible, please get in touch with Roadside assistance. |
Emergency Call System Fault Warning Lamp |
Also known as eCall system fault. This system uses in-vehicle sensors (such as airbag deployment or impact detection) to trigger an automatic call to emergency services, providing them with your vehicle's location and other vital information. If this warning light appears, it suggests that there is a malfunction with the system, which could be due to issues with the sensors, communication module, or other electronic components. Can I still drive with my eCall System Fault Warning Lamp ON?? Yes, you can still drive the vehicle with this warning light on. While the vehicle is still operable, the eCall system may not function correctly in the event of an emergency, which could delay assistance if you’re involved in an accident. |
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Air Suspension Fault |
This could be a deflated rear suspension airbag, an air leak or a sensor related issue. If you see this light, it could lead to uneven ride height, a rougher driving experience, or even cause your vehicle to sit lower than normal, particularly at the rear. This could impact handling, stability, and ride comfort. Depending on the severity, it may also cause further damage to other suspension components if not addressed promptly. Can I still drive with my Air Suspension Fault Warning Lamp ON? It’s important to have the air suspension system inspected as soon as possible. If the issue persists get in touch with roadside assistance. |
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Adaptive Chassis Control Fault Warning Lamp |
Also known as DCC. Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's dynamic suspension system, which adjusts the shock absorbers to optimize ride comfort or handling depending on driving conditions. If this warning light appears, it usually means there’s an issue with the system, such as a faulty sensor, malfunctioning shock absorber, or electrical issue. Can I still drive with the Adaptive Chassis Control Fault Warning Lamp ON? While you can still drive with the warning light on, the vehicle may not perform as well in terms of ride comfort and handling, as the system may default to a standard suspension setting. |
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Differential Lock Warning Lamp |
Also known as a diff lock. This light suggests that the rear differential lock has been engaged, or there is a malfunction in the system that controls the locking mechanism of the rear differential. The lock ensures that both wheels on the rear axle turn at the same speed for better traction, especially in challenging driving conditions like snow, mud, or off-road terrain. Fault indication: If the light flashes or stays on continuously when it shouldn't be engaged, it could signal a problem with the rear differential lock, such as:
Can I still drive with my Differential Lock Warning Lamp ON? If the rear differential lock is engaged: You can still drive, but it’s important not to drive on high-traction surfaces (like dry pavement) with the differential lock engaged. If there is a fault: It is best to avoid off-road or challenging conditions until the issue is resolved. Continuing to drive with a malfunctioning rear differential lock could lead to further damage to the drivetrain. |
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Engine Speed Limit Warning Lamp |
This lamp means your vehicle's engine control system has detected an issue that is limiting performance to prevent further damage. Can I still drive with my Engine Speed Limited Warning Lamp ON? It's advisable to drive cautiously and avoid high speeds or hard acceleration. However, you should get the car checked as soon as possible. |
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Rain and light sensor fault |
Also known as Automatic Wiper and Headlight Sensor Malfunction. The Rain and Light Sensor Fault warning indicates a problem with the vehicle’s automatic wiper or headlight control system. These systems rely on sensors to detect rain on the windshield and changes in light levels (such as transitioning from daylight to darkness or when driving through tunnels), automatically adjusting the wipers or headlights accordingly. A fault in the sensor could mean the wipers don’t activate in the rain or the headlights don't turn on at dusk or in low-visibility conditions. Can I still drive with the Rain and Light Sensor Fault Warning Lamp ON? Yes, you can still drive with this warning light on, but you may need to manually control your wipers or headlights until the issue is fixed. |
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Wiper Fault |
The Wiper Fault warning indicates a problem with the vehicle’s windshield wiper system. This could be related to the wipers themselves, the wiper motor, or the electrical components that control them. Can I still drive with the Wiper Fault Warning Lamp ON? You can still drive with a Wiper Fault warning, but it’s not advisable, especially in bad weather. If the wipers are not functioning properly, it can significantly impair visibility in rain, snow, or during other adverse weather conditions, creating a safety risk. It's recommended to address the fault as soon as possible. |
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Washer Fluid Level too Low Warning Lamp |
The Washer Fluid Level Too Low warning light indicates that the vehicle’s windshield washer fluid is running low and needs to be topped up. This fluid is essential for keeping the windshield clean and clear, especially in adverse weather conditions, by helping to remove dirt, debris, and grime when using the windshield wipers. Can I still drive with the Washer Fluid Level too Low Warning Lamp ON? Yes, you can still drive with this warning light on, but your ability to clean the windshield will be compromised, especially if you encounter dirt, bugs, or rain. Driving with a dirty windshield can impair your visibility and be a safety hazard. It’s a good idea to refill the washer fluid as soon as possible to ensure optimal visibility while driving. |
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Bulb Not Working Warning Lamp |
This means one of your driving lights has stopped working. it's essential to address the problem, as driving with a non-functioning light can pose a safety hazard, both for you and other drivers. If the light appears in red you should address the issue immediately. If the light appears in yellow you should address the issue as soon as possible. Can I still drive with my Bulb Not Working Warning Lamp ON? While you can technically still drive with a broken light, it's illegal in many areas, and it significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially at night or in low visibility conditions. It's best to get it fixed as soon as possible. |
Depress Foot Brake |
This symbol is your Volkswagen California telling you to depress the foot brake. This is required before starting the engine and moving the vehicle out of Park. When it is green, it is just informing you that the brake pedal is being actively used and the system is ready. If this light appears in red It could be triggered under several circumstances, including when starting the engine, engaging the transmission, or when the system detects that the vehicle is in a condition that requires the brakes to be engaged for safety or operational reasons. |
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Parking Sensors |
This symbol represents the front or rear parking sensors. You will also hear an audible beep as you get closer to a wall, pole, tree or other object when reversing. Even with this sensor, you should exercise extra caution while parking and always check at which distance you are from any obstacles. |
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Cruise Control Indicator
Adaptive Cruise Control Indicator
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Keep in mind that the cruise control does not replace the driver and it is still important to be cautious and attentive to the surroundings when using the cruise control or adaptive cruise control for speed adjustment. It illuminates in yellow when the cruise control system / adaptive cruise control system is not available. Cruise control Indicator It illuminates when you switch the system on and define a cruise speed. Adaptive Cruise Control Indicator It illuminates when you switch the system on. It illuminates Associated to the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is the Speed Stored, Regulation Active Indicator The Speed Limiter Control If the ACC system is engaged and the driver also has a speed limiter set, the vehicle will follow both systems. The ACC will keep a safe distance from the car ahead and regulate speed accordingly, but if the vehicle tries to accelerate beyond the maximum speed set by the Speed Limiter, the system will prevent this. |
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Automatic High Beam Control On Indicator |
It illuminates to confirm when the system is ready to assist. This system automatically adjusts the headlights between high and low beams depending on the lighting conditions and the presence of other vehicles. However, if you prefer to control the high beams manually, you can disable the automatic feature through your vehicle’s settings or controls. The color blue helps to distinguish the high beam status from other dashboard lights. |
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Automatic Lights Malfunction |
This is often an issue with the front low-light sensor. You may continue to drive and simply use your normal on/off headlight function until the issue is fixed. |
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Rear Fog Lamp Indicator |
It illuminates when you switch the rear fog lamps on. Designed to signal your vehicle in foggy, rainy, or snowy conditions. They produce a wide, low beam of light that helps improve visibility for other vehicles in situations where regular taillights may cause glare or reflect off the fog, rain, or snow. |
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Direction Indicator |
Also known as Turn Signals. Direction indicator. It flashes when you switch the direction indicators on. If you notice that one or more direction indicator lights are not working, use hand signals to indicate turns and try to resolve the issue as soon as possible. The symbol It functions similarly to regular turn signals but has a key difference, but monitors the trailer’s turn signal system, ensuring that the turn signal on the trailer is working correctly when the vehicle is towing. |
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Hazard Flasher Indicator |
It flashes when you switch the hazard flashers on. Both the left and right turn signal lights will begin to blink simultaneously, alerting other drivers to your presence. This is particularly useful when your vehicle is stopped in a hazardous location, such as on the shoulder of the highway, in low-visibility conditions, or during a traffic stop. |
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Main Beam or Headlight Flasher Indicator |
Also known as High Beam Head bulb Indicator It illuminates when you switch the high beam headlamps on. High beams provide maximum illumination of the road ahead, making them particularly useful for driving at night or in poorly lit areas. However, they should be used responsibly, as they can blind other drivers if not adjusted properly or if used when there's oncoming traffic. The color blue helps to distinguish the high beam status from other dashboard lights. |
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Low Beam Lights On |
It illuminates when you switch the low beam headlamps or the side and rear lamps on. This light serves as a reminder that the vehicle’s lights are active, which is especially useful if you've left the headlights on after turning off the engine, helping to prevent the battery from draining. |
DRL |
Daytime Running Lights |
The DRL feature is designed to make the vehicle more visible to other drivers in daylight conditions, improving safety. This refers to the vehicle's lights that automatically turn on when the engine is running, typically at a lower intensity than regular headlights, to increase visibility during the day. If the DRL Indicator appears on the dashboard, it means that the Daytime Running Lights are active. |
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Vehicle Lighting Failure Warning Lamp |
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Park Position Indicator |
This means your vehicle is in Park. |
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Hood / Bonnet is Open |
While your front hood/bonnet may appear closed, it may show open on the sensor. Check if the hood is properly closed before driving. If the issue persists, there may be a problem with the sensor. |
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Truck / Boot is Open |
While your rear trunk/boot may appear closed, it may show open on the sensor. Check if the trunk is properly closed before driving. If the issue persists, there may be a problem with the sensor. |
Front Radar Engaged |
This means your front sensor is engaged. This feature provides autonomous braking and adaptative cruise control. While it’s safe to drive with the system engaged, you should always stay alert and be prepared to take control of the vehicle if needed. |
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Diesel particulate filter warning |
Also known as the DPF or exhaust particulate filter warning light. This light switches on constantly to alert the driver that filter system is blocked (clogged with soot) and requires elimination of trapped pollution particulates through regeneration process. This is usually done automatically but when the light comes on, the system requires driver input. Can I still drive with my DPF light on? Drive at a speed of 60 km/h with the engine revs above 2000 rpm for about 15 minutes. When regeneration is complete, the warning light goes off. If the DPF warning light stays on, try the process again. Failing that, Please get in touch with Roadside assistance. |
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Seat Not Occupied Indicator |
This is an indicator that informs you when the vehicle detects an unoccupied seat (often the front passenger seat). |
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Auto-Start-Stop Indicators |
It illuminates green when the engine stops. It flashes yellow and a message appears when you need to take action. It illuminates gray when the system is active. It illuminates gray with a strikethrough when the system is not available. Can I drive safely with my yellow or gray Auto-Start-Stop Indicators ON? Yes, you can drive safely but if the yellow lamp remains on for a long time, get in touch with roadside assistance as soon as possible. If the gray lamp with a strikethrough is on the engine will continue to run as usual when stopped, and you won’t experience any driving interruptions. Still, if the warning persists, contact roadside assistance. |
Service Due |
This means your vehicle is due for servicing soon. You can still drive with this light on, since this is a warning that the service should be scheduled soon. This light alone does not affect the functioning of your system. |
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Distance warning |
Appears on your dashboard to alert you when you are getting too close to the vehicle in front of you, typically in cars equipped with adaptive cruise control or collision warning systems. The gray symbol shows that the system is active. You should always be aware of your surroundings, as this system assists and does not substitute the driver. |
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Hill Descendent Control |
When active, it automatically controls a vehicle's speed on steep descents by applying the brakes to individual wheels, preventing uncontrolled acceleration. This feature helps maintain a safe, steady speed while the driver focuses on steering, making it especially useful in off-road or slippery conditions. |
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Engage Power Take-Off |
Also known as PTO Appears on the dashboard to indicate that the vehicle’s PTO system is engaged. |
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Eco Mode Indicator |
It illuminates when the drive eco mode is selected. co Mode is designed to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce fuel consumption by adjusting various systems in the vehicle. |
Mobile Phone Battery Charge Level |
Information of the level of battery of the charging connected mobile phone displays on the Instrument Cluster. |
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Bluetooth Connection |
Information of the successful Bluetooth connection with the mobile phone displays on the Instrument Cluster. |
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Mobile Phone Icon |
Information that there is a mobile phone connected to the vehicle displays on the Instrument Cluster. |