Why do the lights come on?
Modern cars are increasingly sophisticated and computerised. They now have a wide range of sensors, which monitor the cars performance and constantly check for problems. The way they tell the driver of any problems is through dashboard indicator lights. Modern electronic systems like airbags or stability control are constantly self-testing and it’s important for you to know whether a warning light requires immediate attention or whether you can continue your journey and get a garage to investigate later.
What should you do if a light on your dashboard stays on?
If a warning light comes on (or fails to extinguish after you’ve started the engine) you should stop as soon as possible in a safe place. Any warning light appearing on your dashboard, whether it remains on or comes on intermittently should never be ignored. Check the handbook – many warning lights are specific to the manufacturer or even the model. Under most circumstances it will leave a fault code which we can be scanned by an automotive technician to start a diagnosis.