Warning lights and car problems, explained
Straight answers to the things that worry drivers: what a warning light means, whether it's safe to keep going, and what it usually takes to fix. When you want it looked at, we come to you across Soham, Ely, Newmarket and Cambridgeshire.
Grouped by the kind of problem, warning lights first, then starting, brakes and servicing. Nothing here is paid for or sponsored.
Last checked 23 September 2026
- Articles
- 12
- Topics
- 4
- Biggest topic
- Warning lights (5)
- Last checked
- 23 September 2026
There is nothing here on bodywork, air conditioning or automatic gearboxes, because we do not take that work on.
Warning lights
5 articlesCheck engine light on? What it means and what to do
The check engine light means the car has stored a fault in the engine or emissions system.
Read moreEngine management light on? What it means and what to do
The engine management light means the car's computer has logged a fault somewhere in the engine or emissions system.
Read moreDashboard warning lights explained: what each one means
The quick rule is colour.
Read moreBattery warning light on while driving? What it means
That red battery light coming on while the engine is running almost never means a flat battery on its own.
Read moreDPF light on? What it means and what to do
The DPF light means the diesel particulate filter in your exhaust is getting clogged with soot and needs to burn it off.
Read moreStarting and batteries
2 articlesBrakes
4 articlesWhy are my brakes squeaking? Causes and what to do
A squeak or squeal when you brake is most often the wear indicator on the pads telling you they're getting low, so it usually means a pad change is due soon.
Read moreBrakes grinding? What it means and what to do
A grinding, metal-on-metal noise when you brake usually means the pads have worn right down to their metal backing and are now cutting into the discs.
Read moreBrake judder or a vibration when braking? Causes and fixes
A judder or vibration that comes on when you brake is nearly always warped or unevenly worn discs, so the pads grab a thick spot then a thin spot as the disc turns.
Read moreHow to tell if your brake pads need changing
The clearest signs are a squeal when you brake, a thin sliver of pad you can see through the wheel, and the car taking longer to stop.
Read more