Dashboard warning lights

What the most important dashboard lights mean, and how urgent they are.

Act now

Brake system warning light

A red brake warning light that stays on with the parking brake released can mean low brake fluid or a brake system problem. Mazda …

Red
Check soon

Check engine light (steady)

A steady check engine light (also called the MIL) means the engine computer found a problem with the engine, emissions or (on some…

Amber/yellow
Act now

Flashing check engine light

A flashing check engine light means a severe engine misfire. Reduce speed and stop driving soon. Severe misfire can damage the cat…

Amber/yellow, blinking
Act now

Oil pressure warning light

A red oil pressure light means low engine oil pressure. Pull over safely and switch the engine off right away. Running an engine w…

Red (oil can)
Check soon

Tire pressure (TPMS) light

A steady TPMS light usually means one or more tires are significantly underinflated. If it flashes for about a minute to a minute …

Amber/yellow (horseshoe with !)