Millions of UK drivers can’t identify their dashboard warning lights.

Nearly half of UK drivers don’t know what their dashboard warning lights mean, yet these symbols can signal serious problems. Ignoring them could lead to costly repairs or breakdowns.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common dashboard lights, what they mean, and when to take action.

Key facts at a glance:

• Worrying new Warrantywise research reveals that 46% of UK drivers are unable to identify even half of their car’s dashboard warning lights [1]

• The survey, conducted in partnership with OnePoll, highlights a significant knowledge gap, with some drivers unable to identify any warning lights at all

• This lack of understanding could lead to costly repairs and compromise driver and passenger safety

• As cars become more technologically advanced, the variety and complexity of dashboard alerts are increasing, demanding greater driver awareness

• With holiday mileage and long winter drives approaching, Warrantywise warns that if your dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree, don’t ignore it – acting quickly could protect your warranty

With the New Year approaching, 2025 offers an ideal opportunity for drivers to improve their understanding of these critical alerts.

Modern dashboards are equipped with sophisticated warning systems designed to keep drivers informed about their vehicle’s health, ranging from simple reminders, such as low washer fluid, to serious warnings about brake system failures or engine malfunctions. Yet, Warrantywise’s research highlights a troubling knowledge gap, with many drivers unclear about what these signals mean or how urgently they should act when one appears.

Breakdowns waiting to happen:

Even more concerning, the survey, conducted in partnership with OnePoll, also revealed that 3% of drivers – around 1.5 million – are unable to identify any dashboard warning lights at all, leaving them particularly vulnerable to unexpected breakdowns and expensive repair bills.

Ignoring or misinterpreting a warning light can result in delayed repairs, leading to more extensive damage and higher costs, and, in some cases, this could even compromise driver and passenger safety. As cars continue to evolve, the growing variety of warning lights demands greater awareness from drivers.

Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise, commented: “Your car’s dashboard warning system is one of its first lines of defence. These warning lights aren’t just about convenience – they’re essential for your safety and the health of your vehicle. Modern cars bring incredible advancements, but they also require drivers to stay informed.

“Taking the time to understand your car could save you thousands in repair costs, and with your car likely being one of your biggest investments, learning what those warning lights mean is one of the best ways to protect it and stay safe on the road. And if the worst happens?

“That’s what we’re here for, but remember that if it’s found that a driver has driven when a warning light has been on, it can mean that a repair request is declined. Therefore, it’s important motorists know what their warning lights mean and when to act.”

Start your year right with Warrantywise:

As Christmas approaches and winter draws in, Warrantywise is encouraging motorists to prioritise vehicle education and maintenance. As the warranty provider of choice for more than 1 million UK motorists to-date, Warrantywise provides the highest level of warranty for your car’s make, age and mileage. It further warns that driving on damage can be a reason for a car warranty repair request being declined, and therefore it’s crucial motorists know what their warning lights mean, and when to stop to get it investigated.

Disclaimers:

The data cited in this release was compiled from research conducted by OnePoll in 2024. The survey was based on responses from a representative sample of 2,000 UK Car owners.

Source of data:

[1] The Plan for Drivers