Step 1: Pull over when you can
If a red warning appears while driving, reduce speed and find a safe place to stop. Red commonly relates to oil pressure, brakes, battery charging, coolant temperature, or another safety-critical system.
Step 2: Match the symbol
- Oil can / oil pressure → stop the engine and check oil level.
- Thermometer / temperature → let the engine cool; do not open a hot coolant cap.
- Battery → reduce electrical load; the car may stop running.
- Brake or exclamation in circle → check parking brake and brake fluid.
- Unsure → treat it as urgent and check the owner's manual.
Step 3: Decide whether to continue
Do not keep driving if braking feels wrong, the engine is knocking, steam is visible, or multiple red warnings are on. When in doubt, towing is safer than guessing.
Most urgent red warnings
- Oil pressure warning
- Coolant temperature warning
- Brake system warning with soft pedal
- Battery/charging failure with dim electrics
- Any red light plus smoke, burning smell, or sudden power loss
Related symbol guides
More scenarios
This scenario guide is general information only. Confirm warnings with your owner's manual. Read full disclaimer.