Instrument cluster (dash board) warning lamps
A fuller description of the warning lamps that may become illuminated on the dashboard can be found in the instruction manual for your car.
Below is a quick guide to some of the most popular lamps and their meaning. This is a rough guide for information purposes only.
ABS - Anti-lock Braking System, also known as: Anti-locking system
This indicates a fault or malfunction with the ABS system. Whilst this lamp is illuminated the brakes are litely to lock during emergency braking situations. (A fault with the ABS can cause other warning lamps to come on and possibly the Speedo to stop working.)
BAS ASR
Acceleration skid control
Also known as:
- TCS (Traction Control System)
- See also ESP (Some units combine both functions in one unit. Volvo use a combined unit called DSTC Dynamic Stability and Traction Control.)
This indicates a fault or malfunction with the ASR/TCS system.
Whilst this lamp is illuminated the wheels are likely to spin during rapid acceleration or, when on a slippery road surface.
(There may also be an exclamation lamp on at the same time.)
It will also illuminate if the system is manually switched off.
BAS ESP
Also known as:
- Electronic Stabilisation Programme
- Electronic Stability Programme
- Automatic Stability Control (ASC)
- Dynamic stability control (DSC)
- See also ASR (Some units combine both functions in one unit)
This indicates a fault or malfunction with the ESP system. Whilst this lamp is illuminated the vehicle may loose control during fast bends or rapid changes of direction. (There may also be an exclamation lamp on at the same time.)
Airbag system
Also known as: Safety Restraint System (SRS)
This indicates a fault or malfunction with the airbag/SRS system. Whilst this lamp is illuminated, the safety systems such as seatbelt pre-tensioners and airbags may either not deploy at all or, fully deploy in an accident. This could lead to personal injury. On some vehicles however the lamp will stay on, or flash on for awhile, to indicate that the front passenger airbag has been disabled or switched off. (For safety reasons when a baby carrier is in use.)
Battery lamp
Also known as:
- Battery charge current
- Ignition warning lamp
This is a warning that the battery is not being recharged. It does not mean that the battery needs to be replaced, but it will run flat. If the light illuminates, then the drive belt condition must be checked. If it is damaged, the vehicle should not be driven. Provided that the belt is good, then to prolong the charge remaining in the battery, reduce as much electrical load as is practicable. The charging circuit must then be checked as soon as possible.
Telephone: 020 8672 6213 or 020 8672 4891