Group 28

2023-03-01 10:53:26 By : Mr. Raymond Ren

AA has put together a 'handy guide' for drivers

The 12 - our free newsletter with all the news you need

An unknown warning light appears on the dashboard and panic ensues. What does it mean? What should I do? Luckily, most of them are very simple.

Many drivers that have passed their theory test years ago and never had to worry about a breakdown, may have forgotten what each warning light means, and what steps to follow if one appears. Breakdown and roadside recovery company AA has explained what to do.

READ MORE: Highway Code mistake that could get you 3 points that drivers do when they're trying to be safer

The AA explained: "Red warning lights need immediate action. Amber, orange or other colour lights often mean something needs checking by a garage.

"It’s normal to see some of these lights briefly while you start your engine. But if they stay lit up while you’re driving, then you'll need to look into it."

It usually means that there's a problem with an engine. A garage can figure out the specific issue.

If the light is constantly on, but you're not losing power, it is best to head to a garage to get it checked. If the light is flashing then the best solution is to pull over as soon as possible and contact a local garage or your breakdown cover provider.

This means there is a problem with the wiring, the alternator or the alternator drive belt.

If the battery light's red while you're driving, the car could be losing significant power. It is best to have the have the fault looked at immediately as the battery isn't charging.

When possible, drivers should stop the vehicle in a safe place and turn off the engine while they wait for assistance. AA advises against restarting the engine as this could make the problem worse.

If it's been a while since the car's oil has been refilled, drivers should stop and check their level. This light shows when there's no oil pressure in the engine.

If the level is low drivers should be topping up as needed. Your owner's manual will tell you how. If the light still shows, turn off the engine and contact your breakdown cover.

A brake failure could be fatal. Drivers should not have to press the brakes further than usual. If they do, the hydraulic brake circuits may have failed. Pull over and get help.

Drivers should make sure they've released the handbrake fully. If the problem continues then check the brake fluid level and top it up if you need to.

For most vehicles, as long as there aren't any noises coming from the wheels it is safe to continue driving - but always important to check the handbook. Cars with ABS that have failed should take extra care when driving, especially during wet or icy weather, as your car's braking distances may increase.

This indicates a major fault with the brakes. Stop the vehicle immediately and contact your breakdown cover to report your breakdown.

It can still be safe to drive for around 10 minutes at over 40mph when safe. However if the light doesn't disappear after continual driving. In that case, top the vehicle, turn off the engine and contact us to report your breakdown.

Want more from MyLondon? Sign up to our daily newsletters for all the latest and greatest from across London here

Highway Code mistake that could get you 3 points that drivers do when they're trying to be safer

Drivers warned over common habit on motorway that could see them fined £100 thanks to new cameras