The modern car is equipped with many lights and indicators, which communicate the various states of its diverse system. As a driver, when you notice something illuminating on the dashboard, you should take the time to investigate and understand what it is trying to tell them. Many drivers find this quite overwhelming, but the more you know, the better it can help you avoid car failure or complete breakdown.

When a light on your dashboard illuminates, it usually means something is wrong with your car, and you should take it to a mechanic. It doesn’t mean waiting a few weeks to see if it turns off.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common dashboard lights and what they mean.

What Do Different Colors Mean?

The warning lights on a car will come in three different colors. Red, orange, and green.

Red Lights
Red lights are the most urgent and signify a potential problem or safety issue. Stop your car safely ASAP and contact your local service center for assistance.

Orange (Yellow) Lights
Orange (Yellow) lights indicate that there may be an issue with the car’s system, but it is unlikely to be an emergency. When you notice this light on your dashboard, you should immediately take your vehicle for service to avoid further issues.

Green Lights
Green lights are usually the least urgent and indicate a minor issue or maintenance required. This could be anything from an oil change to a tire rotation, so it’s best to check it out to ensure it runs smoothly.

It’s also important to note that different car makes and models can vary the color codes on their dashboard lights. So it’s always best to consult your car manual for more information.

Various Lights and What They Mean

Here’s a list of some of the most common dashboard lights and what they usually indicate: