We have all been there. You are driving along, everything seems fine, and then suddenly a light appears on your dashboard. It might be a small icon, but it can cause big worry. If you are not sure what it means or what to do next, you are not alone.
Subaru warning lights are designed to tell you what is going on under the bonnet. Sometimes it is a simple reminder, and other times it could be the first sign of a more serious issue. Either way, knowing what these lights mean is the first step to keeping your car in good shape and avoiding costly repairs.
This guide will walk you through the most common Subaru dashboard lights, what they mean, and what to do if one appears. We will also explain why regular servicing is the best way to avoid unpleasant surprises on the road. Whether it is one of the more common dashboard warning lights or something unusual, having the right knowledge helps.
What Are Warning Lights?
Modern vehicles, including all Subarus, are fitted with a range of sensors and monitors that keep track of various systems in your car. These systems alert you with warning lights, also known as car warning signals, that appear on your dashboard when something needs attention.
There are three general categories of warning lights, based on colour:
- Red: Something is wrong, and you should stop driving immediately or very soon. These are urgent.
- Amber or yellow: There is a potential issue that needs checking, but it is not an emergency.
- Green or blue: These are informational only. They let you know a system is active, such as your headlights or cruise control.
Understanding these colours can help you decide what to do next. But let’s dive deeper into specific Subaru warning lights you are most likely to see.
Common Subaru Warning Lights Explained
Check Engine Light
Symbol: Engine block outline
Meaning: This light indicates there is something wrong with your engine or emissions system. It could be something as simple as a loose fuel cap or a more serious engine fault.
Action: If the light is flashing, it could be dangerous to drive. Arrange a service immediately. If it is steady, you can continue driving, but you should book an inspection soon. This is one of the most common dashboard warning lights.
Battery Charge Warning
Symbol: Battery icon
Meaning: Your car’s battery is not charging properly. This could be due to a faulty alternator, a worn battery, or a poor connection in the charging system.
Action: Get the electrical system checked straight away. If ignored, the battery could go flat and leave you stranded.
Oil Pressure Warning
Symbol: Oil can
Meaning: There is a drop in oil pressure. This can lead to engine damage if not resolved quickly.
Action: Stop driving as soon as it is safe. Check your oil levels. If the light stays on after topping up, call for assistance. This oil pressure warning light could be linked to issues with your engine oil, so take it seriously.
Brake System Warning
Symbol: Exclamation mark in a circle or the word “BRAKE”
Meaning: This could indicate low brake fluid, worn brake pads, or that the handbrake is still engaged. Some Subaru models may show this light with a standalone exclamation point.
Action: First, check that your handbrake is fully released. If the light stays on, book a brake system inspection without delay.
ABS Warning
Symbol: The letters “ABS” inside a circle
Meaning: There is a fault with the Anti-lock Braking System. Your brakes will still work, but the ABS feature is disabled.
Action: Drive carefully and arrange a service as soon as possible. Ignoring the ABS warning light could reduce your control in emergency stops.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Symbol: Horseshoe with an exclamation mark
Meaning: One or more of your tyres may be under-inflated.
Action: Check your tyre pressure against the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Reinflate as needed and keep an eye out for slow leaks.
Airbag Warning Light
Symbol: Person seated with a circle in front
Meaning: There is a problem with the airbag system.
Action: Book a service immediately. Airbags may not deploy in an accident if this system is not working correctly.
Traction Control Warning
Symbol: Car with wavy lines below it
Meaning: The traction control system has activated, or there is a fault in the system.
Action: If the light stays on after restarting the engine, arrange for a diagnostic check.
Temperature Warning
Symbol: Thermometer with liquid underneath
Meaning: The engine is overheating.
Action: Pull over safely, switch off the engine, and allow it to cool. Driving while the engine is too hot can cause major damage. Be sure to check your coolant levels if this light appears.
What To Do When A Warning Light Appears
When a warning light comes on, do not panic. Instead, follow these steps:
- Take note of the colour. Red means stop immediately, amber means check soon, and green or blue means it is simply information.
- Check your owner’s manual. This will help you confirm what the light means for your specific model.
- If unsure, call a Subaru service centre. The safest way to handle any warning light is to speak with a professional.
Even if the car seems to be driving normally, some warning lights indicate problems that can get worse over time or affect safety features.
Regular Servicing Prevents Surprise Warning Lights
One of the best ways to avoid seeing a warning light pop up unexpectedly is to stay on top of your servicing schedule. Subarus are known for their reliability, but like all cars, they benefit from regular maintenance.
When you bring your car in for a service, qualified technicians will check all key systems, top up fluids, run diagnostics, and ensure everything is running as it should. This allows minor issues to be spotted and fixed before they become serious or costly.
At Subaru service Perth, our expert team knows Subaru vehicles inside and out. We use genuine parts and manufacturer-approved diagnostics to keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and performing at its best.
Do Warning Lights Affect Your MOT or Roadworthiness?
Yes, they can. Some warning lights, especially those related to the engine, brakes, or airbags, can result in a failed MOT or make your vehicle legally unroadworthy. That is why it is important not to ignore even a light that seems minor. Prompt action can keep you compliant and safe.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Your dashboard lights are not there to scare you. They are there to keep you informed and to help protect your vehicle and everyone inside it. Understanding what they mean puts you in control and gives you the chance to act before small problems become big ones.
So if you see a Subaru warning light pop up, do not ignore it. Book in for a check at Subaru service Perth and let our trained technicians take care of it. Whether it is a quick fix or something more involved, we are here to help keep you and your Subaru on the road with confidence.
