Orange Warning Lights in Your Car: Should You Keep Driving?
Orange warning lights on your dashboard typically signal a problem with specific vehicle functions or indicate that service is needed, whether it's a fluid top-off or an issue with the particulate filter, among other things.
Often, these lights point to a malfunction in one of the systems; however, the check engine light or the triangular warning light could signal a more general problem. In some cases, seeking immediate assistance at a service center may be crucial.
If you haven't manually disabled any systems or functions, and your fluid levels are adequate, try to identify the light in our list to understand why it's on.
4 Wheel Drive Auto indicator
This light warns the driver that the vehicle is in "AUTO" mode with four-wheel drive. This means that the vehicle automatically engages four-wheel drive when it detects a loss of traction. Most modern four-wheel drive vehicles use this mode as the default. The problem occurs if the light is on even when the mode should be off.
4 Wheel Drive High indicator
This indicator warns the driver that the vehicle is in "HIGH" mode with four-wheel drive. In the case of older vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive, this was the default setting under normal driving conditions - in such a case, manufacturers rarely added the warning light to other indicators. Most modern four-wheel drive vehicles operate with the default "AUTO" mode and allow switching to 4x4 High or 4x4 Low.
The 4x4 High mode is useful when higher traction is needed at normal and higher speeds, for example, on a snowy road, during rain, etc. When the mode is active, the front and rear drive shafts are mechanically locked together, causing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed.
This warning light can be displayed as 4x4 High, 4WD High, or in abbreviated versions such as 4HI or 4H. If it flashes permanently (not when switching the mode), it's a problem, and you should go to the service center asap.
4 Wheel Drive Low indicator
This light warns the driver that the vehicle is in "LOW" mode with four-wheel drive. When the mode is active, the front and rear drive shafts are mechanically locked together, causing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. A low gear ratio provides higher wheel torque and, thus, much higher traction.
However, the 4x4 Low mode is not intended for normal and higher speed but especially for very slow off-road and difficult terrains such as steep climbs, muddy terrain, or deep sand, where higher torque and higher traction come in handy. Before driving on such terrain with the 4x4 Low mode, turning off the traction control is important.
Depending on the manufacturer, the warning light can be displayed in different variants, i.e., as 4x4 Low, 4WD Low, or in abbreviated form as 4LO or 4L. If it flashes permanently (not when switching the mode), it's a problem, and you should go to the service center asap.
4x2, 2HI, 2H indicators
These indicators warn the driver that a four-wheel drive vehicle only supplies energy to two wheels. The 4x2 mode is suitable for dry surfaces or during good driving conditions, providing better fuel economy.
ABS warning light Read more
Illuminates if the ABS sensor or control unit is malfunctioning. A car's wheels without a functioning ABS might lock during braking. In this case, the vehicle brakes in the same way as the vehicle not equipped with this system (older vehicles). Be extremely careful when this indicator lights on, especially when it's rainy, or the surface is wet, and try to keep a safe distance while being soft on brakes.
Adaptive cruise control warning light
The adaptive cruise control is currently not functional. At the next opportunity, stop the vehicle, and restart the engine. If the warning light stays on, the radar detecting the surroundings may be covered in dirt/ice, or there is a malfunction within the ACC system. You can continue driving, but the adaptive cruise control will not work.
Adaptive headlights system (AFL)
This symbol signals a failure of the adaptive lighting system. As with the rain sensor, the lighting should still work in standard mode.
Adaptive suspension dampers
It signals a malfunction in the suspension stiffness regulation. In this case, it is recommended to drive carefully, as this malfunction affects stability. In addition, you need to go to the service center for a system functionality test.
AFS warning light
This warning light indicates that the AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) malfunctioned or was turned off. The AFS automatically adjusts the angle and intensity of the headlights to optimize visibility in curves. Even in case of the AFS malfunction, the function of the main headlights should not be affected, but we recommend checking them just to be sure.
Airbag and seat belt warning light
If this warning light is on or flashing, it indicates a fault with the airbags or seat belts. We recommend an immediate but cautious drive to an authorized car service center, as airbags or seat belts may not work if a collision occurs.
Air suspension warning light
This warning light signals a malfunction of the air suspension system. As with suspension shock absorbers, driving carefully and going to a car service center is recommended.
Blind spot monitor OFF
An illuminated warning light indicates the BSM (Blind spot monitor) system is deactivated. Unless the system was turned off intentionally, the malfunction might have occurred. In any case, the system does not work and thus won't alert you of an object in your blind spot.
Blind spot monitor warning light
When this warning light remains illuminated, the blind spot monitoring system is active and detects an object currently in the blind spot. Pay extra attention before changing lanes or taking a turn. This symbol may additionally flash if you activate the turn signal while the object is in your blind spot.
If it remains lit even under normal circumstances, the blind spot monitoring system may not be working correctly, and malfunction might have occurred. In this case, it is advisable to visit a car service center.
Brake light bulb warning light
This warning light comes on if the external brake light bulb is defective. If necessary, the bulb should be replaced as soon as possible.
Brake pad warning light Read more
This warning light comes on when the brake pads are excessively worn. We recommend replacing them as soon as possible, because the effect of the brakes may be reduced.
Brake system warning light
This orange symbol indicates a general problem with the brake system, such as a lack of brake fluid. We recommend parking the car immediately and topping up the brake fluid level if necessary. The brakes may not work without enough brake fluid, or their effect will be limited. In any case, an immediate visit to a car service center is more than appropriate.
Bulb failure warning light
It informs about a non-functioning light bulb that needs to be replaced.
Catalytic converter warning light
This warning light indicates a clogged, overheated, or damaged catalytic converter. A damaged catalytic converter prevents exhaust gases from leaving the engine quickly enough, which increases the pressure in the exhaust manifold. In such a case, you may feel a significant reduction in engine power, so we recommend visiting a car service center as soon as possible.
Convertible roof warning light
The warning light is on while the roof is being opened or closed. It should disappear as soon as the roof is fully opened/closed. In case it stays on, there may be a malfunction.
DPF warning light
The DPF (diesel particulate filter) warning light indicates either a problem or regeneration of the particulate filter. You should drive and keep a steady speed in an rpm range of 2000 - 2600rpm for at least 15 minutes or until the regeneration of the filter is complete. When it's done, the symbol disappears. Otherwise, you need to go to the service center asap.
You may encounter the regeneration of the filter when you frequently use your diesel car for short distances.