The car's instruments and warning lights
Overview of the dashboard instruments and what the various warning lights tell you.
The instrument panel provides you with important information about the car’s condition while driving. Understanding the symbols is necessary for safe driving and is a common topic on the theory test.
Important instruments
| Instrument | Shows | What to monitor |
|---|---|---|
| Speedometer | Speed in km/h | Keep within the speed limit |
| Tachometer | Engine RPM | Efficient gear shifting |
| Fuel gauge | Fuel level | Refuel in time |
| Temperature gauge | Coolant temperature | Should remain stable |
| Odometer | Total mileage | Service interval |
Warning light colors
- Red – serious fault or danger, stop as soon as it is safe
- Yellow – warning, something should be checked soon
- Green – system is active and operating normally
- Blue – high beams are on
Important warning lights
| Symbol | Color | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oil lamp | Red | Low oil pressure | Stop the engine immediately |
| Temperature | Red | Engine overheated | Stop and let the engine cool |
| Battery | Red | Charging system fault | Drive to a workshop soon |
| ABS | Yellow | ABS system fault | Brakes work, but without ABS |
| Belt | Red | Belt not fastened | Fasten the seatbelt |
| Airbag | Yellow | Airbag system fault | Workshop inspection required |
| Engine | Yellow | Engine fault | Drive carefully to a workshop |
At startup
When you turn the key, all warning lights should light up briefly and then turn off. Lights that remain on indicate a fault. Check this as part of your daily inspection.
Warning lights and fluids
Many warning lights are related to oil levels and other fluids. The red oil lamp means critically low pressure, and the temperature lamp can indicate insufficient coolant.
Further reading
- Daily car inspection for the pre-driving checklist
- Brakes and brake system about ABS and brake warnings
- Lights and car lighting about dashboard light symbols
- Driver assistance systems and technology for modern warning systems
Read next
More in Class B course
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Special procedures and considerations for accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Accidents, reporting and first aid
Checklist for safe handling of accidents and proper notification.
Adapted speed and hidden danger
What adjusted speed means in practice, and how you anticipate hazards you cannot see.
Age limits and practice driving
Everything about age limits for class B and what is required for private practice driving with a companion.