Date Posted: 02 January 2025

So, you have jumped into your Ford vehicle, and suddenly, you have spotted a mysterious light that has popped up on the dashboard, but what does that yellow light or exclamation point mean? Should you panic, or can it wait until you can call the service team?

Well, understanding what your Ford dashboard warning lights mean is absolutely essential for you keeping your Ford on the road and preventing irreparable damage - or stopping before you get a lack of power to steer the car due to, say, a powertrain fault, for instance.

So, whether you are driving an old or new Ford, it is really important for you to know what those Ford dashboard symbols are trying to tell you. From red warning lights that signal a major problem to yellow lights that might indicate a broken electrical sensor or that you just need to top up some fluids, we have all the answers you need.

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First Thing To Do - Pull Over If You Are driving

Regardless of whether you are in a Ford Ranger, Ford Transit, Ford F-150, or any other Ford model, you want to make sure you have pulled over and are in a safe place before you continue.

This is to keep you safe on the road, as sometimes, ignoring a warning lamp could lead to irreparable damage, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

For instance, it could be a safety feature alerting you to a car’s electrical system issue, or it could be something as simple as a minor fault in your instrument cluster or that you may need to top some fluids up. Either way, understanding the light colour and the symbol and what it’s telling you is ideal for you to know. For example, if it’s a red warning light, you will especially want to pull over to a safe place immediately to avoid further problems developing.

So let's get into this comprehensive guide, which aims to provide the accuracy of the information you need, whether it’s for a Ford dashboard lights overview or something specific to your Ford model. Consequently, by the end of this guide, you will know what warning lights on your vehicle's dashboard mean, if it is time to take action — and when you can relax.

So, let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about Ford warning lights and How to Fix them.

Ford Warning Lights Explored

Please note: The style of the warning lights shown has changed over time, so yours may vary, and not all warning lights are applicable to you and your car, depending on the features that have come with your trim level, for instance.

You can also find the warning lights for your specific car in your owner's manual, if you are still unsure as well.

Symbol Warning Light Name Description Link
⚠️ General Warning Light This indicates a general fault or warning has been detected. How to Fix
🔧 Service Required Light Your vehicle requires maintenance or a service. How to Fix
🛑 Brake System Warning There is an issue with your brakes or you have low brake fluid levels. How to Fix
💡 Exterior Lights Fault There is an issue with a headlight or rear light system. How to Fix
🔋 Battery Warning Light Your battery is not charging correctly. How to Fix
🌡️ Engine Temperature Warning Engine overheating has been detected. How to Fix
💨 Exhaust System Fault There is a possible emission control fault. How to Fix
Fuel Level Warning Low fuel level has been detected. How to Fix
🔑 Key Not Detected Your key fob is not being recognised by the vehicle. How to Fix
🚗 Traction Control Warning Your traction control system is off or faulty. How to Fix
⬆️⬇️ Transmission Fault A transmission system issue has been detected. How to Fix
🛡️ Security System Warning There is an issue with your anti-theft system. How to Fix
🚨 Airbag Warning Light A problem with an airbag system has been detected. How to Fix
🔵 High Beam Indicator Light Your high beams are currently on. How to Fix
Powertrain Warning There is an issue with your engine or gearbox. How to Fix
🛑⬅️ Door Ajar Warning A door is not fully closed. How to Fix
⬆️⬇️❄️ Hill Descent Control Your hill descent system is engaged. How to Fix
🛞 Tyre Pressure Warning A low tyre pressure has been detected. How to Fix
💺 Seatbelt Reminder Your seatbelt is not fastened. How to Fix
🌨️ Rain Sensor Fault The Windshield wiper system has an issue. How to Fix
🔄 Start-Stop System Warning An auto start-stop malfunction has been detected. How to Fix
💥 Collision Warning A possible collision has been detected by the sensors. How to Fix
📡 Adaptive Cruise Fault Your adaptive cruise control has malfunctioned. How to Fix
🔊 Parking Sensor Warning There is an issue with your parking assist sensors. How to Fix
💨❌ DPF Warning Your diesel particulate filter requires attention. How to Fix
🚦 Lane Assist Warning A Lane-keeping system malfunction has been detected. How to Fix
🔧⛽ Fuel Cap Loose Your fuel cap is loose or missing. How to Fix
📱 Sync System Fault Your infotainment system has an issue detected. How to Fix
❄️ Winter Mode Activated Your vehicle is operating in winter mode. How to Fix
⬆️⬇️🔥 Turbo Overheat Turbocharger overheating has been detected. How to Fix
🔒 Lock System Warning The central locking system has an issue. How to Fix
🌀 Steering Assist Fault A power steering malfunction has been detected. How to Fix
⚙️ Drivetrain Fault A drivetrain issue has been detected. How to Fix
🔒⬇️ Child Lock Warning The child lock system has an issue. How to Fix
🔄🌫️ Defogger Fault The window defogging system has an issue. How to Fix
🛑 Braking System / Brake Warning Light An issue with your brakes or brake fluid level has been detected. How to Fix
🔧 Check Engine Light There is an issue with your engine or emissions system. How to Fix
⚠️ Anti-lock Braking System (ABS Warning Light) An ABS system malfunction has been detected. How to Fix
🛞❗ Ford Brake Pad Warning Light Your brake pads are worn or need a replacement. How to Fix
🔧 Ford Service Engine Soon Warning Light This indicates a scheduled maintenance is due. How to Fix
🔆 Ford Glow Plug Warning Light Your glow plugs are active, or a malfunction in the diesel engine has occurred. How to Fix
🛢️ Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light Your engine oil pressure is critically low. How to Fix
🅿️ Electric Park Brake Light Your electric parking brake is applied or malfunctioning. How to Fix
🛞 Low Tyre Pressure Monitoring System One or more tyres have low pressure. How to Fix
👁️🚗 Ford Blind Spot Monitor Warning Light There is an issue with your blind spot monitoring system. How to Fix
💧❗ Ford Water in Fuel Warning Light Water contamination detected in your fuel system. How to Fix
⬆️⬇️ Ford Lane Keeping Aid Warning Light Your lane-keeping system has malfunctioned. How to Fix
Ford Powertrain Warning Light There is a problem with your engine or transmission detected. How to Fix
🌡️ Ford Engine Coolant Warning Light Your engine is overheating or low levels of coolant have been detected. How to Fix
🔋 Ford Battery Charging System Warning There is a battery charge problem detected - which indicates an issue with it not charging properly. How to Fix
🌡️⬆️ Oil Temperature Light Your oil temperature is too high. How to Fix

Ford Warning Lights How to Fix Explored

The following section then goes into detail on how you can try to fix any issues and what you are best to do.

For instance:

General Warning Light


What the light looks like

A yellow warning light, often in a triangle shape with an exclamation mark in the centre.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check the vehicle manufacturer's user manual for your particular Ford model and trim level to understand the specific issue. It could indicate various problems, such as low oil or a service reminder. Consequently, make sure that all fluids are topped up and that basic maintenance is done.

If it persists after this, you should take the car to a professional mechanic for a full diagnosis.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this light could lead to unresolved issues getting much worse, potentially causing significant mechanical failures or safety risks to then occur.


Service Required Light

What the light looks like

A spanner icon usually in yellow or orange colour.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light is a reminder that your car's service is due, and it is time to book a service with your local garage.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Failure to service your car on time can lead to engine damage, reduced efficiency, and invalidated warranties.


Brake System Warning

What the light looks like

A red circle with an exclamation mark or the word "BRAKE".

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to stop the car safely and check your brake fluid levels. If the fluid is low, you want to consider topping it up with the correct type for your car.

If the light then remains on, avoid driving further and call a professional, as it might indicate serious brake issues that require immediate attention to be resolved.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this light risks brake failure, endangering you and others on the road as a result.


Exterior Lights Fault

What the light looks like

An icon resembling a bulb or a light with a cross through it.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to inspect all exterior lights, including your headlights, brake lights, and indicators. You then need to replace any faulty bulbs with new ones that match the required specifications and check that all your connections are secure. If the issue still persists, have it looked over by an automotive professional who can help check the wiring or control module in case the fault has originated from parts you can't access.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Driving with faulty lights is illegal and can result in you getting fines or accidents due to reduced visibility on the road.


Battery Warning Light

What the light looks like

A red battery icon with a positive and negative symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

If you feel confident doing so, you want to stop and check the alternator belt for damage or looseness. Again, if you are confident in doing so and know what you are doing, you also want to ensure that the battery connections are tight and clean. If the light then stays on, the battery may not be charging correctly, which could indicate an alternator failure. At this point, you would need to get the system checked by a mechanic immediately or do this if you are not feeling confident about the above.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Your car may eventually stop working, as the battery will drain completely, leaving you stranded.


Engine Temperature Warning

What the light looks like

A red thermometer symbol, often over wavy lines.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to stop the car immediately in a safe location and turn off the engine. Next, when it is safe to do so, you want to check the coolant level in the reservoir when the engine is cool. If it’s low, top it up with the recommended coolant for your car.

If the light then remains on, do not drive further and call a professional as this may be a leak or a faulty thermostat in the system.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this warning can lead to your engine overheating, causing severe damage and costly repairs as a result.


Exhaust System Fault

What the light looks like

An icon resembling smoke or lines exiting a rectangle.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light may indicate a problem with the exhaust or emissions system. If and when legally safe to do so, you may want to try driving at higher speeds for 20 minutes to clear any blockages that may have built up in the system, especially in diesel cars with a DPF. If the light then stays on, you want to take the vehicle to a garage for a diagnostic check.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Failing to address this light can increase your emissions, reduce your performance, and means it will fail MOT tests as well.


Fuel Level Warning

What the light looks like

A yellow fuel pump icon or gauge with a low marker.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to refuel the vehicle as soon as possible, as this light is a reminder that the tank is low on fuel. If the light then does not turn off after refuelling, there may be an issue with the fuel sensor, which should be checked by a professional mechanic.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Running out of fuel can cause the engine to stop, potentially damaging the fuel pump in the process.


Key Not Detected

What the light looks like

A key icon with a slash or a question mark.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to make sure that the key fob is inside the vehicle and has a working battery. If it is in the car, you can try replacing the battery if needed. If the issue then continues, you want to either use a backup key or contact a mechanic to check the car's key detection system.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

You may be unable to start the car or access certain features.


Traction Control Warning

What the light looks like

A car icon with squiggly lines beneath it.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to check if the traction control has been turned off manually and, if it has been turned back on if it is safe to do so. If the light then stays on, it might indicate a fault with the system, which will need to be inspected by a professional mechanic to make sure your stability control is functioning correctly.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Driving without traction control increases the risk of losing control, especially with slippery road conditions.


Transmission Fault

What the light looks like

A gear icon or a wrench over a transmission symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

If safe, you want to stop the vehicle and turn off the engine. Next, you want to check the transmission fluid level and top it up if it is low when it is safe to do so. If the light then continues, it indicates a mechanical or software issue that requires immediate attention from a qualified mechanic.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring your transmission faults can lead to a complete failure in the ability to stop, resulting in expensive repairs as well.


Security System Warning

What the light looks like

A padlock or key icon, often red or yellow.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to check if the car properly recognises the key. If it is, you can try locking and unlocking the vehicle to reset the system, and if the light stays on, it may indicate a problem with the immobiliser or key coding. In this case, you will need to contact a professional mechanic for assistance.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The car may refuse to start or activate its anti-theft system unexpectedly.


Airbag Warning Light

What the light looks like

An icon of a seated person with a circle representing an airbag.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check that all seat belts are fastened correctly. If the light then stays on, it indicates a fault in the airbag system, and you will want to take the car to a professional for a diagnostic check and repair as this may also involve a potential issue with the front passenger occupant classification system as well.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The airbags may not deploy during an accident, drastically increasing the risk of injury as a result.


High Beam Indicator

What the light looks like

A blue headlight icon with horizontal lines pointing forward.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light is simply an indicator that the high beams are on. To turn it off, push the headlight stalk away from you or adjust it according to your vehicle's manual. Ensure high beams are only used when appropriate to avoid dazzling other drivers.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Keeping high beams, of your front fog lamps on, unnecessarily can cause accidents by blinding other drivers.


Powertrain Warning

What the light looks like

A yellow or red icon resembling an engine block.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here you want to stop the vehicle safely and turn off the engine. At this stage you want to then restart the engine to see if the light clears. If it remains on, it could indicate a serious issue with the engine, transmission / gearbox, or your drivetrain. In this case, you want to consider immediately visiting a garage for a diagnostic check.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this warning can lead to major mechanical failures and costly repairs in essence.


Door Ajar Warning

What the light looks like

An open door icon or text saying "Door Ajar".

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check that all your doors, including the boot and bonnet, are fully closed. Push each door firmly until you hear it click.

If the light then stays on, you then want to check the door sensors and seek professional help if necessary as it could be a sensor fault at this point.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Driving with open doors poses a safety risk to passengers and could lead to accidents.


Hill Descent Control

What the light looks like

A car icon going downhill, often with a speed or snowflake icon.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light indicates that hill descent control is active. To turn it off, you can press the hill descent button in the car or disengage it via the settings if you want to. If the light stays on unexpectedly, then you need to consult a mechanic to check the system.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The system may reduce speed unexpectedly when not going down a hill, affecting driving control on flat surfaces. It you are going down a hill then this light is fine.


Tyre Pressure Warning

What the light looks like

An exclamation mark inside a tyre-shaped icon.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here you want to check the pressure of all tyres using a pressure gauge and inflate them to the recommended levels. If the light remains on, you then want to inspect the tyres for punctures or damage to them, and reset the tyre pressure monitoring system if necessary, following the manual.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Underinflated tyres can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel efficiency, and tyre blowouts on the whole.


Seatbelt Reminder

What the light looks like

A red icon of a person with a seatbelt.

How to Fix / turn it off

To fix this, consider fastening your seatbelt securely to turn off this light. For your passengers, ensure all seatbelts are in use, and if the light stays on despite wearing a seatbelt, it may indicate a sensor issue requiring more professional attention to fix.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Driving without a seatbelt increases the risk of injury and is illegal and this could indicate that the seatbelt isn't secured as correctly as it appears as well.


Rain Sensor Fault

What the light looks like

An icon resembling a wiper with a raindrop or alert symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check the windshield for obstructions like dirt or ice near the sensor. If you want to clean it thoroughly, then if the issue persists, the sensor may need calibration or replacement, in which case you will need to visit a garage to diagnose and fix the problem for you.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

You could see that your wipers may not activate automatically in the rain, reducing your visibility and increasing accident risks in the process.


Start-Stop System Warning

What the light looks like

An "A" icon with an arrow circling it.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to make sure that all vehicle conditions for start-stop activation are met (for example, the engine is warm, and the battery is charged). If the light remains on, the system may need professional diagnostics for battery or sensor issues that may have occurred.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The start-stop system won’t function, potentially affecting your fuel efficiency in the process.


Collision Warning

What the light looks like

A car with a warning triangle in front.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light alerts you to potential collisions that may occur, so if this is turned on, you want to clean your sensors and ensure nothing blocks the front of the car. If the system then malfunctions, you then want to visit a garage to check for calibration or sensor issues.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The collision warning system may fail to alert you, increasing your accident risks as a result.


Adaptive Cruise Fault

What the light looks like

A car with a radar-like icon or cruise symbol and warning sign.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to clean the front sensors or cameras of your car that manage your adaptive cruise control. Then, you also want to consider, if you can, the ability to restart the system after cleaning it.

If the warning then continues to show, you will want to consult a garage to diagnose and repair the issue.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The adaptive cruise system won’t work, requiring manual control and reducing your driving comfort in the process.


Parking Sensor Warning

What the light looks like

An icon of a car with radar waves or a warning triangle.

How to Fix / turn it off

Inspect the parking sensors for dirt, ice, or obstructions and clean them gently. If cleaning doesn’t help, there may be a fault with the sensors or wiring. Visit a garage to diagnose and fix the issue.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Parking assistance will not work, increasing the risk of hitting obstacles when reversing.


DPF Warning (Diesel Particulate Filter)

What the light looks like

A rectangle with small dots inside or a smoke icon with a cross.

How to Fix / turn it off

When safe and legal to do so, you want to drive at a constant speed on a motorway for 20-30 minutes to help regenerate the filter. If this doesn’t work, a professional may need to clean or replace the DPF. Avoid ignoring this warning, as it can lead to expensive repairs.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The engine may enter limp mode, and the DPF could become permanently damaged.


Lane Assist Warning

What the light looks like

An icon of a car drifting out of its lane with lines on either side.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to make sure that the lane markers on the road are visible and clear of any obstructions from the camera. If the warning then continues, you want to have the system checked by a garage to ensure proper calibration occurs.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The lane-keeping assist won’t work, increasing the risk of drifting into other lanes as a result.


Fuel Cap Loose

What the light looks like

An icon of a fuel pump with a spanner or a warning message.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to stop your vehicle and make sure that the fuel cap is tightly secured. If the light then remains on, the sensor detecting the cap may be faulty. At this stage, you want to talk to a mechanic for a diagnostic check to see if the warning continues.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Fuel efficiency may decrease, and emissions might increase.


Sync System Fault

What the light looks like

A screen or phone icon with an exclamation mark.

How to Fix / turn it off

Please try restarting the infotainment system or perform a master reset from the settings menu. You also want to make sure that your Sync system is up to date with the latest software. If the issue then continues, you want to visit a dealership for further assistance.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The infotainment system may not function correctly, which will affect your navigation or entertainment.


Winter Mode Activated

What the light looks like

A snowflake or a car with a snow symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light then indicates that winter mode is active. For your exact Ford model, you want to check your owner's manual for how to disable it, as this can vary, but it is often through the drive mode selector. If the light appears unexpectedly, it could indicate a sensor issue, though, and you may need a mechanic to inspect it.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Winter mode affects how the car drives, potentially reducing efficiency on dry roads.


Turbo Overheat

What the light looks like

A symbol of flames or a thermometer over a turbo icon.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here you want to stop the vehicle immediately and let the engine idle to cool the turbo. You also want to avoid revving the engine or driving aggressively, and if the warning continues, then you will need to have the turbocharger inspected by a professional to prevent further damage from occurring.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The turbocharger could fail completely, leading to costly repairs.


Lock System Warning

What the light looks like

A padlock icon or a car with a lock symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to make sure that all your doors are securely locked and check the central locking system as well. If the issue then continues, it may indicate a fault in the locking mechanism or key fob. At this stage, you will want to consult a garage for repairs if necessary.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The car may be left vulnerable to theft or tampering.


Steering Assist Fault

What the light looks like

A steering wheel icon with an exclamation mark or warning light.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to stop the car safely and restart the engine to reset the system. At this point, you also want to check that the power steering fluid level is correct. Then if the warning continues, you will want to take the vehicle to a mechanic to diagnose the steering system.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Your steering may become difficult or unresponsive, increasing the risk of accidents then occuring.


Drivetrain Fault

What the light looks like

An icon of gears or a general warning symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to stop the car and avoid driving further to prevent damage from occuring. At this point, you want to check for any unusual noises or performance issues, and visit a local garage immediately for a full diagnostic test of the drivetrain system as well.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The drivetrain could fail, causing you a lack of power and expensive repairs.


Child Lock Warning

What the light looks like

An icon of a child or a padlock near a door.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check that the child lock settings on the rear doors are correct. If they are not, you want to adjust the manual locks - or the electronic child lock settings - in the car’s system. If the light then continues, the child lock system may need some professional attention to diagnose and correct.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Your child locks may not engage, compromising your child's passenger safety.


Defogger Fault

What the light looks like

An icon of a windscreen with wavy lines.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to check that your defogger is activated and the heating system is working correctly. You also - if you feel competent in doing so - check for any blown fuses or wiring issues. If the problem then continues, you want to take the vehicle to a garage for further inspection and repairs.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Reduced visibility during foggy or icy conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.


Braking System Brake Warning Light

What the light looks like

This light often appears as a circle with an exclamation mark or "BRAKE."

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check the brake fluid levels and top it up if low, as well as inspect the brake system for leaks or worn-out components as well. If you are unsure, then you should contact a qualified mechanic to assess and fix the issue while also avoiding driving, as the brakes may be compromised.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this light can result in brake failure, leading to dangerous situations or accidents then occuring.


Check Engine Light

What the light looks like

It typically shows an engine symbol, sometimes with the word "CHECK."

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you should check your fuel cap is secured for starters, as this often resolves this if its a minor issue. If the light persists, then you will want to visit a mechanic to identify the fault, as it may involve sensors, spark plugs, catalytic converter issues, or other potential system issues that have arisen.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Delaying here could cause severe engine damage and costly repairs; it is best to get it checked out.


Anti-lock Braking System (ABS Light)

What the light looks like

A circle with "ABS" in the middle.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to inspect the ABS sensors at each wheel for damage or dirt and check your brake fluid levels and fuses related to the ABS system. If you are not confident in doing this, then you should visit a professional for further diagnostics if needed.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Your vehicle may lose anti-lock braking capabilities, increasing the risk of skidding during hard braking due to this.


Ford Brake Pad Warning Light

What the light looks like

A circle with dotted lines on either side, symbolising brake pads.

How to Fix / turn it off

You will need to replace worn brake pads as soon as possible. If you hear grinding noises, the brake discs may also need replacement, so you will need to visit a garage.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Worn pads can damage the brake discs, leading to more expensive repairs and unsafe driving conditions for you as well.


Ford Service Engine Soon Warning Light

What the light looks like

Text displaying "SERVICE ENGINE SOON."

How to Fix / turn it off

This light tells you it is time for your vehicle's service schedule. If the light appears unexpectedly, it may indicate an engine-related issue, and you should book a service appointment to resolve any faults that may have come up.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Neglecting maintenance can reduce your performance, void any warranty, worsen your fuel efficiency and may result in more costly repairs as well.


Ford Glow Plug Warning Light

What the light looks like

A coil or squiggly line, often seen in diesel vehicles.

How to Fix / turn it off

You then want to wait for the light to turn off before starting your engine. If it then stays on, the glow plugs might need replacement, and a mechanic can diagnose and resolve the issue for you.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

This can give you starting difficulties and very inefficient combustion in the engine, which can lead to excess engine wear or emissions issues as a result.


Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light

What the light looks like

An oil can symbolising dripping oil.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to stop the vehicle immediately, and when it is safe to do so, check your engine oil levels. Where possible, you then want to add oil if needed, and if the light remains on, have the engine inspected for leaks or damage as well.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Running with low oil pressure can severely damage the engine, requiring expensive repairs as a result.


Electric Park Brake Light

What the light looks like

A "P" symbol with a circle around it.

How to Fix / turn it off

This light means that the parking brake may not be fully released, so you will need to check to see if the parking brake is fully released, and if it isn't and it is safe to do so, consider this. If the light stays on, there may be an electrical fault that requires a mechanic to repair.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The parking brake might not function properly, risking unintended vehicle movement.


Low Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

What the light looks like

A horseshoe shape with an exclamation mark.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you want to check all your tyres, which you can do with air compressors at most petrol stations, and inflate them to the correct pressure - which you can either find in the owner's manual or on the inside of the driver's side door. You may then need to reset the tyre pressure monitoring system if necessary.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Driving on underinflated tyres can lead to poor handling, tyre damage, or blowouts.


Ford Blind Spot Monitor Warning Light

What the light looks like

A car icon with radar-like waves near the rear.

How to Fix / turn it off

In new cars you want to clean the sensors to remove dirt or debris, and if the issue persists, have the Blind Spot Information System checked by a technician.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

You may not receive alerts for vehicles in your blind spots, increasing the risk of accidents if this is not working correctly.


Ford Water in Fuel Warning Light

What the light looks like

A fuel icon with a droplet or "WATER IN FUEL."

How to Fix / turn it off

Here, you will need to drain the petrol or diesel fuel filter or tank to remove the water and replace the filter if necessary. If you do not feel confident in doing this then you will need to visit a garage for assistance here.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Contaminated fuel can damage the engine and your injectors, leading to costly repairs.


Ford Lane Keeping Aid Warning Light

What the light looks like

Two lane lines with a steering wheel symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here you want to make sure that the camera or sensors are clean and calibrated correctly. You may also need to reset the system if possible or contact a technician for diagnostics if you are unsure.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The lane-keeping assist may fail, increasing the risk of drifting out of lanes.


Ford Powertrain Warning Light

What the light looks like

A wrench or cog symbol.

How to Fix / turn it off

For this light you will need to visit a mechanic to diagnose the engine or transmission / gearbox fault. You also want to avoid driving extensively until the issue is resolved as well.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Prolonged use can cause severe damage to the engine or drivetrain.


Ford Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light

What the light looks like

A thermometer symbol over water.

How to Fix / turn it off

You want to stop and let the engine cool. Then, when safe to do so, check and top up your coolant levels. If overheating then continues, you also want to consult a mechanic as well.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Overheating can lead to engine damage or a breakdown.


Ford Battery Charging System Warning

What the light looks like

A battery symbol with positive and negative signs.

How to Fix / turn it off

Here you want to check the alternator, battery connections, and drive belt, and replace or repair faulty components as needed.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

The battery could die, leaving you stranded with no power for essential systems.


Oil Temperature Warning Light

What the light looks like

An icon of a thermometer inside an oil can or over wavy lines.

How to Fix / turn it off

Stop the vehicle immediately and allow the engine to cool. Check the oil level and top it up if it’s low. Inspect the cooling system for any blockages or leaks. If the light persists, take the vehicle to a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis.

What could happen if I don't do anything with this light?

Ignoring this warning can lead to the engine overheating and oil breaking down, potentially causing severe engine damage and expensive repairs.


Ford Warning Lights Allow You To Stay Safe and Confident on the Road

As you can see, understanding your Ford's warning lights does not just keep your car running smoothly — it keeps you safe and confident behind the wheel at the same time.

So, whether it is a quick check of your oil or a more urgent issue like your brake warning light, paying attention to these can really save you time, money, and potential headaches as a result.

So, if you are ever unsure, your car’s owner manual is a great place to start, and you're local Ford dealership or trusted mechanic is always ready to help.

Remember, those little lights on your dashboard are not there to scare you — they are your car’s way of looking out for you.

So, next time a light pops up, take a deep breath, check what it means, and take action; you have this and have safe driving.

If you liked our car review, then you may like some of our other car reviews and buyer's guides, such as, for instance:

Who is Hartwell?

Here at Hartwell, we are a well-established car dealership group in the UK with over a century of experience in the automotive industry.

Founded in 1919, we have grown to become one of the leading car dealerships across the UK, offering you a wide range of new and used vehicles from popular brands such as Ford, BYD, Omoda, and GWM Ora cars.

With multiple locations across the country, here at Hartwell, we can provide you with comprehensive services, including vehicle sales, servicing" target="_blank>servicing, MOTs, and repairs.

Our local car dealerships are also known for our customer-focused approach, ensuring a seamless buying experience through personalised service, competitive pricing, and flexible financing options.

As a result, we also pride ourselves on our aftersales support, helping all our customers keep their vehicles in top condition.

So, whether you are looking for a new car, a quality used vehicle, or professional maintenance services, we have built a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness in the UK car market, and are here to help you.

Delighted to assist you

Established in 1919 in Oxfordshire, Hartwell Automotive Group Ltd is a trusted leader in the automotive industry, dedicated to providing you with the support and guidance you deserve.

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Hartwell Automotive Group Ltd.

Wootton Business Park, Wootton, OX13 6FD

Hartwell Automotive Group Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender and is an Appointed Representative of Hartwell Finance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We can introduce you to a limited group of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchase. Credit providers may have different interest rates, charges and acceptance criteria and therefore we cannot guarantee advertised offers are available in every case. We do not charge you a fee for our services. We are only able to offer a range of finance products from these providers, which may be suitable for you and we will explain the key features of these products to you. These finance providers will pay us for introducing you to them. Other lenders may be available to you personally and we are happy to work with these.

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