Engine malfunction indicator warning light: meaning and…

Engine malfunction indicator

The exact symbol can vary between makes and models. Also check the message displayed by the vehicle.

How urgent is it?

Steady: arrange diagnosis promptly. Flashing, shaking or loss of power: urgent action, stop safely.

How to recognise it

Engine outline, usually amber.

What it can mean

Steady illumination: the system detected a fault. It does not identify the failed part.

What to do

Flashing can indicate catalyst-damaging misfires: avoid engine load and stop safely if it runs roughly. Arrange diagnostics; do not clear codes before reading them.

Before clearing the light or codes

Photograph the dashboard message and save all codes, the reporting module, fault status and freeze-frame data. Clearing can remove useful evidence without repairing the cause.

Useful terms

From warning light to inspection

A warning light can have many causes. The example codes below have NOT been scanned from your vehicle.