Heading
Close X
Menu
Driving is more than getting behind the wheel and hitting the open road. It’s about understanding how to safely operate your vehicle. Drivers have a whole lot to remember, the route for where you’re going, keeping to the speed limit on unfamiliar roads, to knowing what to do in the event of an accident.
Yet, understanding what your Ford’s dashboard warning lights mean is paramount.
We explore the common (and some lesser known) dashboard warning lights, what to do when one or more illuminates, how to avoid dashboard warnings, and some common FAQ’s that most motorists have asked at one time or another.
So, if you’ve ever wondered what Ford warning lights mean, you’re in the right place!
A dashboard warning light is your car’s way of telling you that you have a problem. Modern Ford’s, like the Ranger, Puma, and the ever-popular Transit van, have a wealth of electronic display systems to alert drivers to various aspects of vehicle health.
Now, these warning lights have varying functions and are colour coded according to levels of severity.
RED warning lights indicate a serious, potentially dangerous problem, such as faulty brakes.
AMBER warning lights indicate a non-urgent warning, such as a low fuel warning or check tyre pressure reminder.
BLUE warning lights indicate that an electronic system is functioning normally, for instance, high beam. Blue lights don’t require immediate action.
GREEN warning lights indicate that the vehicle’s systems are operational, the most common being left and right turning indicators.
When you turn the ignition, you’ll generally see some of these lights flicker across the dashboard. If a light remains static, pay attention, especially to any red lights. You may have an issue that needs addressing.
If you want to learn more about the severity of your dashboard warning lights and if you might need a mechanic to check things over, Contact Group M53 today.
Now we’ve decoded the warning light colours, let’s answer the question, what do Ford warning lights mean, using common (and some slightly less common) lights as examples.
What It Means: The battery isn’t charging due to an alternator or battery fault. If the battery isn’t charging, the vehicle will eventually lose all power.
What You Should Do: Get the vehicle to a garage as soon as possible to test the charging system and battery, and replace the battery or any faulty parts.
What It Means: Indicates a fault with the engine, transmission, or drivetrain.
What You Should Do: Book a service appointment immediately to avoid further damage.
What It Means: The parking brake may be engaged or there may be a brake system fault.
What You Should Do: Check the parking brake. If it is not engaged, seek immediate brake inspection.
What It Means: Low oil level or oil pressure.
What You Should Do: Check the oil level using the dipstick. If it’s low, top it up with the correct oil as soon as possible. If the light stays on after topping up, or if you notice unusual engine noise, arrange for the vehicle to be checked by a garage.
What It Means: Red = overheating, Blue = engine too cool.
What You Should Do: If red, stop and allow the engine to cool. If blue, let the engine warm before driving.
What It Means: Fault detected in the engine or emissions system. Could be as minor as a loose fuel cap or more serious.
What You Should Do: Check the fuel cap, then arrange a diagnostic test.
What It Means: Power steering fault detected.
What You Should Do: If light stays on after restarting the car, have the system inspected, steering may feel heavier.
What It Means: A seatbelt is not fastened.
What You Should Do: Ensure all occupants have seatbelts fastened.
What It Means: Fuel level is critically low.
What You Should Do: Refuel as soon as possible.
What It Means: Windscreen washer fluid is running low.
What You Should Do: Top up washer fluid reservoir.
What It Means: Stability control system is active or there is a fault.
What You Should Do: If flashing while driving on slippery surfaces, this is normal. If solid, book a system check.
What It Means: Anti-lock braking system fault.
What You Should Do: Brakes will still work, but without ABS assistance. Have the system checked.
In a perfect world, we’d drive up and down the country for years on end, rarely thinking about our dashboard warning lights. Our car would work perfectly for as long as we need it. We’d never have to chain the engine’s oil or tyre pressure and certainly, we’d not be happily driving home from work only to spot the red engine management light. But that’s unrealistic.
Below is a basic guide explaining what you need to do to avoid encountering dreaded dashboard warning lights. Knowing each will help you to make sure that you don’t experience that sinking feeling when you spot a light illuminated.
Regular Maintenance
Check Fluid Levels Often
Pay Attention to Warning Signs
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Drive Responsibly
Use Quality Fuel and Parts
Keep Your Battery Healthy
Ensure Electrical Systems Are Functional
What does the red oil can symbol mean on my Ford dashboard?
If the red oil can symbol is on, it may indicate low oil pressure, which can seriously damage the engine. Stop the car and check your oil level immediately.
What does the yellow engine warning light mean?
Also known as the check engine light, it usually means there's an issue with the engine or emissions system. The car may still run, but you should get it diagnosed soon.
Why is my battery light on while driving?
This signals a problem with the charging system, often a failing alternator or battery. If the light stays on, the car may eventually lose power. Act fast and get your battery checked soon, or you run the risk of your car not starting up next time you drive it.
What does the red temperature gauge mean?
The engine is overheating. Pull over and turn off the engine to avoid permanent damage. Check coolant levels once the engine has cooled down.
What does the yellow wrench or spanner light mean?
Can I still drive with a warning light on? In short, it depends on the light. Red? Ideally, no. Green? More than likely, yes. Using common sense is advised.
Most of us would be hard pressed to identify every dashboard warning light. Yet knowing what each (or as many as possible) mean can help you mitigate potentially catastrophic issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
To learn more about your Ford’s dashboard lights or ask any questions about how to keep your Ford running smoothly, Contact Group M53 today.