Warning Signs & Common Faults
What dashboard warning lights mean, the noises and smells that signal trouble, and which problems can wait until the next service.
A new car communicates constantly. Dashboard warning lights, changes in sound, new vibrations, unfamiliar smells and shifts in fuel consumption all carry information, and the owner who learns to read them avoids the vast majority of expensive repairs. Most modern cars distinguish between advisory warnings, usually shown in amber or yellow, and serious warnings shown in red that mean stop safely as soon as you can.
The good news is that a new car under warranty is the cheapest car in the world to have investigated. Diagnosis of a genuine fault is covered, the dealer has the manufacturer's diagnostic tools, and early reporting protects your warranty position because it shows the problem was raised promptly. This topic covers the most common warnings and faults, what they usually mean, and how to tell the difference between something that can wait for the next service and something that cannot.
Warning Signs & Common Faults — questions
The questions people ask about warning signs & common faults, answered plainly.
What should I do when a warning light comes on?
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Check the colour first. A red warning, such as oil pressure, engine temperature, brake or battery charge, means pull over safely, switch off and call for assistance. An amber or yellow warning, such as check engine, tyre pressure or a service reminder, generally means drive carefully and have it checked soon. Your owner's manual lists every symbol and the correct response.
Why is my check engine light on when the car drives normally?
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The check engine light reports a fault detected by the engine or emissions control system, and many of those faults do not affect how the car feels. A loose fuel cap is a classic cause. Because the light can also mask a developing problem, have the dealer read the fault code at the earliest opportunity. If the light flashes rather than stays on, stop driving and get assistance.
What noises should worry me on a new car?
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Grinding or squealing when braking, a knocking that changes with engine speed, a humming or droning that rises with road speed, clicking on full lock, and a rattle over bumps are the noises worth reporting. Some sounds are normal, such as a fuel pump priming or an electric car's pedestrian warning tone, so describe the noise and when it happens to your dealer.
Will reporting a small problem affect my warranty?
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Reporting a problem early strengthens your warranty position rather than weakening it, because it creates a record that the fault was raised promptly and gives the manufacturer the chance to fix it before it causes further damage. Ignoring a known fault, on the other hand, can give grounds to reject a later claim for consequential damage. Report early and keep the job card.
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