- Understanding Your Dashboard
- Red Warning Lights: Stop Immediately
- Yellow/Amber Warning Lights: Service Soon
- EV-Specific Warning Lights
- Green and Blue Indicator Lights
- What to Do When a Warning Light Appears
- Conclusion
Understanding Your Dashboard
Dashboard warning lights alert you to potential issues before they become serious problems. Chinese cars use standardized warning symbols similar to European and Japanese vehicles, but some EV-specific warnings are unique to electric models. This guide explains the most common warning lights in Chinese cars and what actions to take.
Red Warning Lights: Stop Immediately
Red lights indicate serious issues that require immediate attention:
- Engine oil pressure: Low oil pressure can destroy the engine. Stop immediately and check oil level. If low, add oil. If the light persists, call for towing.
- Brake system: Indicates low brake fluid or brake failure. Stop safely and check fluid level. Do not drive if the pedal feels spongy.
- Battery/charging (EV): Indicates a serious battery or charging system fault. Stop and call roadside assistance. Do not attempt to drive.
- Coolant temperature: Engine is overheating. Stop immediately, turn off the engine, and wait for it to cool. Check coolant level. Do not open the radiator cap when hot.
- Airbag: Airbag system malfunction. The airbags may not deploy in a crash. Drive carefully to a service center.
Yellow/Amber Warning Lights: Service Soon
Yellow lights indicate issues that require attention but are not immediately dangerous:
- Check engine: Engine or emissions system fault. Check for loose fuel cap first. If the light persists, schedule service within a few days. Flashing check engine light indicates a misfire; drive gently to a service center.
- TPMS (Tire Pressure): One or more tires are underinflated. Check and adjust pressure. If the light persists, a sensor may be faulty.
- ABS: Anti-lock brake system malfunction. Normal braking still works, but ABS is disabled. Schedule service.
- ESP/ESC: Electronic stability control fault. Drive carefully and schedule service.
- Battery (petrol cars): Charging system fault. The battery is not charging. Schedule service soon to avoid a dead battery.
EV-Specific Warning Lights
Electric vehicles have unique warnings:
- Battery temperature: Battery is too hot or too cold. Park in shade or a garage. If the light persists, contact service.
- Limited power: The car has reduced power due to a fault. Drive gently to a service center.
- Charging fault: An error occurred during charging. Unplug and retry. If persistent, check the charger or contact service.
- High voltage system: Fault in the high-voltage electrical system. Stop and call roadside assistance. Do not touch any orange cables.
Green and Blue Indicator Lights
These are informational, not warnings:
- High beam: High beams are active
- Turn signals: Left or right indicator is active
- Cruise control: Cruise control is engaged
- ECO mode: Economy mode is active
- EV mode (hybrids): Running on electric power only
What to Do When a Warning Light Appears
- Check the color: Red = stop immediately; Yellow = service soon; Green/Blue = informational.
- Consult the owner's manual for the specific symbol.
- For red lights, stop safely and assess the situation.
- For yellow lights, note the symptom and schedule service.
- Use the car's infotainment system to check for detailed error messages (available on BYD, Geely, and Nio).
Conclusion
Understanding dashboard warning lights helps you respond appropriately to potential issues. Never ignore red warning lights, and address yellow lights promptly. With proper attention, your Chinese car will provide reliable service for years.
