When you hire a vehicle, whether for business or pleasure, it’s important to familiarise yourself with its dashboard warning lights. Modern vehicles are fitted with a range of indicators designed to alert you to potential issues, from minor maintenance needs to serious faults that require immediate attention.
In this guide, we’ll explain the meanings of key dashboard warning lights you may encounter when hiring a van or car from Skipton Self Drive, helping you stay safe on the road.
Red Warning Lights – Stop Immediately
Red dashboard lights are the most serious and should not be ignored. If you see one, it typically means there is a critical fault that could compromise the safety or performance of the vehicle. Some key red warning lights include:
Brake Warning Light
This may indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or an issue with the braking system. Stop as soon as it is safe to do so and seek assistance.
Engine Oil Pressure Light
If this light appears, it means there is low oil pressure, which can cause severe engine damage. Turn off the engine immediately and check the oil level or contact roadside assistance.
Battery Warning Light
This suggests a problem with the charging system, such as a faulty alternator or battery issue. If the battery is not charging, the vehicle may lose power, so seek assistance.
Coolant Temperature Warning Light
An overheating engine could lead to significant damage. If this light comes on, pull over safely and allow the engine to cool before checking the coolant level.
Amber Warning Lights – Proceed with Caution
Amber or orange warning lights indicate a potential issue that needs attention but is not necessarily an emergency. If an amber light appears while driving, you can usually continue your journey, but you should have the vehicle checked as soon as possible. Common amber warning lights include:
Check Engine Light
This can be triggered by a variety of engine-related issues, ranging from minor sensor faults to more serious problems. If the light is flashing, it indicates an urgent issue, and you should seek assistance immediately.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light
This warns of low tyre pressure, which can affect handling and fuel efficiency. Check the tyre pressures and inflate them if necessary.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Warning Light
Found in diesel vehicles, this light indicates that the DPF may be clogged. Driving at motorway speeds for 15–30 minutes can help clear the filter, but if the light remains on, professional attention may be needed.
Traction Control/ESP Light
This indicates that the vehicle’s traction control or stability system is active, which can occur in slippery conditions. If it stays on, there may be a fault with the system.
Green, White & Blue Lights – Informational
These colours generally indicate that a system is working as intended. They are not warning lights, but rather informational indicators to show that a specific function is active. Examples include:
Headlight and Fog Light Indicators
Blue or green symbols show when full beam headlights or fog lights are switched on.
Cruise Control Indicator
Green light indicating that cruise control is active.
Lane Departure Warning Light
Many modern vehicles have a lane-keeping system that helps prevent unintentional lane changes.
What to Do if a Warning Light Appears in a Hire Vehicle
If you notice a dashboard warning light while driving one of our hire vehicles, follow these steps:
- Identify the Light – Refer to the vehicle’s manual or the information provided in this guide to determine the severity of the issue.
- Take Immediate Action if Necessary – If it is a red warning light, stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and contact us or roadside assistance.
- Check Minor Issues – For amber lights related to tyre pressure or fuel additives (such as AdBlue in diesel vehicles), you may be able to resolve the issue yourself.
- Report Any Issues to Skipton Self Drive – If a warning light persists, let us know immediately so we can arrange for the vehicle to be checked and ensure your safety.
Final Thoughts
Understanding dashboard warning lights is key to ensuring a safe and trouble-free hire experience. At Skipton Self Drive, we maintain our vehicles to the highest standards, but if you ever encounter an issue, our team is here to help. By recognising these warning signals, you can take the right steps to protect yourself, your passengers, and the vehicle. If you have any concerns before or during your rental, don’t hesitate to contact us – your safety is our priority. Book your next vehicle today by contacting our team on 01756 792911 or book online here.
