Warning lights and indicators

General notes

~18min read

Switching on the warning light and/or the symbol in the instrument panel display is accompanied by a specific message and/or an audible signal, where the on-board system allows it. These messages are brief and preventive and must not be considered a substitute for or alternative to the information in this owner's manual. It is therefore recommended that you read the owner's manual carefully. Always refer to this chapter when a fault message appears.

Please note: the fault messages shown in the display are divided into two categories: very serious faults and serious faults.

Very serious faults are repeated in a "display cycle" for a longer period.

Serious faults are repeated in a "display cycle" for a shorter period.

The cycle of both categories can be interrupted by pressing the MODE button. The warning light (or the symbol in the display) remains on until the cause of the fault is rectified.

Brake fluid low
Handbrake applied (red)

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

Brake fluid low

The warning light comes on when the brake fluid level in the reservoir falls below the minimum level, due to a possible leak in the brake circuit.

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Note

If the warning lightcomes on while
driving (and the corresponding message appears in the display), stop immediately and contact the Fiat Service Network.

Parking brake applied

The warning light comes on when the parking brake is applied.

A corresponding audible signal also sounds while driving.

Please note: if the warning light comes on while driving, check whether the parking brake has been released.

Brake pads
worn

The warning light (or the symbol in the display) comes on when the front brake pads are worn. In this case, replace them as soon as possible.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Note: As the vehicle is only fitted with a wear indicator on the front brake pads, have the rear brake pads checked at the same time when replacing the pads.

Airbag fault

When the key is turned to MAR, the warning lamp comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light stays on continuously if the airbag system is not functioning normally.

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Note

If the warning lightwhen turning the
ignition key to MAR, the light does not come on, or it comes on while driving, there may be a fault in the restraint systems. In this case, the airbags or seat belt pretensioners may not deploy in an accident or, in rare cases, may deploy accidentally. Before continuing to drive, contact the FIAT service network for an immediate check of the system.

Note

A fault is indicatedas follows: the warning light

flashes for longer than the usual 4 seconds and indicates that the front passenger airbag is deactivated.

The airbag system also automatically deactivates the front passenger airbag (front and side airbag where fitted).

In this case the warning lightmay not indicate possible faults in the restraint systems. Before continuing to drive, contact the FIAT service network for an immediate check of the system.

Passenger airbag/side airbag
deactivated

The warning lightcomes
on when the front passenger airbag and side airbag (where fitted) are deactivated. When the front passenger airbag is switched on, turning the ignition key to MAR causes the warning lightto come
on steadily for approx. 4 seconds, flash for a further 4 seconds and then go out.

Note

A fault is indicatedThis is shown by the
illumination of the warning light
. The airbag system also automatically deactivates the front passenger airbag (front and side airbag where fitted). Before continuing to drive, contact the FIAT service network for an immediate check of the system.


Seat belts not fastened

The warning light stays on permanently when the vehicle is stationary and the driver’s seat belt is not correctly fastened.

This warning light flashes together with the audible signal (buzzer) when the vehicle is moving and the driver’s or front passenger’s seat belt is not correctly fastened.

The audible signal (buzzer) of the S.B.R. (Seat Belt Reminder) system can only be permanently disabled by the FIAT service network.

The system can be switched back on via the set-up menu.

Insufficient
battery charge

When the key is turned to MAR, the warning light (where fitted) comes on but must go out when the engine starts (a brief delay with the engine idling is permitted).

If the warning light (or the symbol on the display) stays on or flashes, contact the FIAT service network immediately.

Low
engine oil pressure
Oil consumed Low engine oil pressure

When the ignition key is turned to MAR, the warning light comes on but must go out after the engine starts.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

If,
however, the warning lightcomes on while
driving (together with the message in the display), stop the engine immediately and contact the Fiat Service Network. Oil consumed (Multijet versions with DPF)

The warning light flashes when the system detects that the engine oil has been used up.

After the first indication, the warning lightcontinues to flash
every time the engine is started, for approx.

1 minute and then every 2 hours until the oil is changed.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

If the
warning lightflashes, contact the
Fiat Service Network immediately. They will change the oil and switch off the corresponding warning light on the instrument panel. Engine oil
minimum level

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when the engine oil level falls below the specified minimum. Top up the oil to the correct level (see “Checks and levels” in the “Maintenance and care” chapter).

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Fault,
electric "Dualdrive" power steering

When the ignition key is turned to MAR, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

If the warning light (or the symbol on the display) stays on, electric power steering assistance is not available and steering effort increases considerably, although it is still possible to steer the vehicle. Contact the FIAT service network.

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Activation
of electric "Dualdrive" power steering

The warning light (or the word CITY on the display) comes on when the electric power steering “Dualdrive” is switched on by pressing the corresponding button. Pressing the button again switches off the CITY indication.

Engine coolant
overtemperature

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light comes on when the engine is overheating.

If the warning light comes on, proceed as follows:

  • During normal driving: stop the vehicle, switch off the engine and check the coolant level in the reservoir.

    The coolant level must not be below the MIN mark. In this case, wait a few minutes to allow the engine to cool, then slowly and carefully open the cap, top up the coolant and make sure the level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. Also check visually for any leaks. If the warning light comes on again the next time the engine is started, contact the FIAT service network.

  • If the vehicle is under heavy load (for example when towing a trailer uphill or with a fully loaded vehicle): slow down and, if the warning light stays on, stop the vehicle. Run the engine at a slightly increased speed for 2 or 3 minutes to help coolant circulation, then switch off the engine. Check the coolant level as described above.

Note: If the vehicle is under heavy load, it is recommended to let the engine run at a slightly increased speed for a few minutes before switching it off.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Door
not fully closed

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when one or more doors are not properly closed.

If a door is open while the vehicle is moving, an audible signal sounds.


Boot lid not fully closed

The symbol (where fitted) comes on in the display when the boot lid is not properly closed.

On some versions, the warning light comes on instead.



Bonnet not fully closed

The symbol (where fitted) comes on in the display when the bonnet is not properly closed.

On some versions, the warning light comes on instead.


General
fault message
Fuel cut-off switch tripped

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when the fuel cut-off safety switch intervenes. A corresponding message appears on the display.

Engine oil pressure sensor fault

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when a fault is detected in the engine oil pressure sensor.

Light sensor fault

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when a fault is detected in the light sensor. A corresponding message appears on the display.

Speed limit exceeded (for Arab countries only)

The warning light (amber) or the symbol on the display (red) comes on when the speed of 120 km/h is exceeded.

Rain sensor fault

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when the rain sensor is faulty.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Parking sensor fault (where fitted)

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when a fault is detected in the parking sensors.

Tyre pressure monitoring system fault (where fitted)

The warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on when a fault is present in the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System T.P.M.S. (where fitted).

If two or more wheels are fitted without sensors, the warning light on the instrument cluster comes on until the initial conditions are restored.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Note: If one of the above faults occurs, contact the Fiat dealer network immediately.

Particulate filter
clogged

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light comes on when the particulate filter is clogged and the driving profile does not allow automatic activation of the regeneration process.

It is advisable to continue driving to allow the regeneration process to take place and clean the filter, until the warning light goes out.

A corresponding message appears in the display.


Fuel reserve

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light comes on when there are approximately 8-10 litres of fuel left in the tank.

Note: If the warning light flashes, there is a fault in the system. In this case, contact the Fiat dealer network to have the system checked.

EOBD system/injection fault

Under normal conditions, the warning light comes on when the ignition key is turned to MAR, but it must go out immediately after starting the engine.

If the warning light stays on or comes on while driving, this indicates that the injection system is not operating perfectly. In particular, if it is lit continuously, it indicates a fault in the fuel supply/ignition, which could cause high exhaust emissions, possible loss of power, poor drivability and high fuel consumption.

A corresponding message appears on the display.

Driving can continue under these conditions, but avoid maximum engine performance and high speeds. However, continued use of the vehicle with the warning lamp on could cause damage. Please contact the Fiat dealer network as soon as possible.

The warning lamp goes out when the fault is rectified, but the message remains stored in the system.

Petrol engines only

If the warning light flashes, it indicates possible damage to the catalytic converter.

If the warning lamp flashes, release the accelerator pedal and drive at low engine speed until the warning lamp stops flashing.

Continue driving at low speed, but avoid situations that could cause the warning lamp to flash again, and go to a Fiat dealer workshop as soon as possible.

If the
warning light comes on when turning the ignition key to ONor stays on or flashes continuously while driving (on some versions together with a message in the display), contact the Fiat Service Network immediately. The function of the warning lightcan
be checked with suitable equipment by the traffic police. Observe the regulations of the country in which you are driving.ESP system

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

If the warning light does not go out, or stays on while driving together with the LED on the ASR button, please contact the Fiat dealer network.

On some versions, a corresponding message appears on the display.

Flashing of the warning light while driving indicates intervention of the ESP system.

Hill Holder
fault

The illumination of the symbolindicates a fault in the
Hill Holder system. In this case, contact the Fiat dealer network as soon as possible.

On some versions, the warning light comes on instead..


A corresponding message appears in the display.

Glow plugs
Glow plug fault Glow plugs

When the ignition key is turned to MAR, the warning light comes on. It goes out when the glow plugs have reached the required temperature. Once the warning light has gone out, start the engine immediately.

Note: At high ambient temperatures, the warning light may come on only very briefly.

Glow plug fault

The warning light comes on if a fault occurs in the glow plug system.

Contact the Fiat dealer network immediately.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Water in
diesel filter

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light comes on when water is present in the diesel filter.

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Water in
the fuel supply can seriously damage the entire injection system and disrupt engine operation. If the warning light
(together with the message in the display) comes on, have the system cleaned immediately by the Fiat Service Network. If this message appears immediately after refuelling, water may have entered the tank. In this case, stop the engine immediately and contact the Fiat Service Network.ABS
system fault

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning light comes on when the system is ineffective or unavailable. In this case, the braking system retains its effectiveness, but without the capabilities provided by the ABS system.

Drive carefully and contact the Fiat dealer network as soon as possible.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

EBD system fault

The simultaneous illumination of the warning lightsand
with engine running
indicates a fault in the EBD system, or the system is unavailable.

In this case, when braking hard, the rear wheels may lock prematurely and skid.

Drive carefully and take the vehicle to a Fiat dealer workshop to have the system checked.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Fiat CODE
system fault
Alarm system fault Intrusion attempt Fiat CODE system fault

When the ignition key is turned to MAR, the warning light on the instrument cluster should flash only once and then go out.

If the warning light (or the symbol on the display) comes on steadily when the key is at MAR, it indicates that there may be a fault (see "The Fiat CODE system" in the chapter "Instrument panel and controls").

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Note: simultaneous illumination of the lightsand
(or
the symbol on the display) indicates a fault in the Fiat CODE system.

If the warning light with the engine running(or the symbol on the display)
flashes, this means the vehicle is no longer protected by the immobiliser (see "The Fiat CODE system" in the chapter "Instrument panel and controls").

Please contact the Fiat dealer network to have all keys registered.

Alarm system fault (where fitted)

Lighting of the warning lamp (or the symbol on the display) indicates a fault in the alarm system. Contact the Fiat Dealer network immediately.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Intrusion attempt

Lighting of the warning lamp indicates that an attempted break-in has occurred. Contact the Fiat Dealer network as soon as possible.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Insufficient
tyre pressure
Tyre pressure check Tyre pressure not suitable for speed

When the key is turned to MAR, the warning lamp (where fitted) lights up but must go out after a few seconds.

Insufficient tyre pressure

The lamp (amber) or the symbol on the display (red) lights up when the pressure of one or more tyres drops below a predetermined threshold value.

In this way, the T.P.M.S. system warns the driver of a potentially dangerously low tyre pressure and therefore of a probable tyre puncture.

Warning if one or more tyres are flat: do not continue driving, as vehicle drivability may be impaired. Stop without braking hard or making sudden steering manoeuvres. Immediately replace the wheel with the spare wheel (where fitted) or carry out the repair with the appropriate kit (see section "Wheel replacement" in the chapter "In an emergency"), and go to the Fiat Dealer network as soon as possible.

Tyre pressure check

The warning lamp (or the symbol on the display) lights up on the instrument panel to indicate a flat tyre.

If two or more tyres are flat, the status of each tyre appears on the display in turn.

In this case, it is advisable to inflate the tyres immediately to the correct cold inflation pressure (see section "Cold tyre inflation pressure" in the chapter "Technical data").

Tyre pressure not suitable for speed

If a journey at a speed above 160 km/h is planned, the tyres must be inflated to a higher pressure as indicated in the section "Tyre pressure".

If the T.P.M.S. system (where fitted) detects that one or more tyres are not inflated to the correct pressure for the driving speed, the warning lamp lights up (together with the message on the display) (see section "Insufficient tyre pressure" in this chapter).

The warning lamp remains on until the vehicle speed drops below the specified threshold.

Warning: in this condition, reduce speed immediately, as excessive heating of the tyre can irreversibly impair performance and service life and, in extreme cases, cause the tyre to burst.

Note

Very strong radio frequency interference may hinder the correct operation of the T.P.M.S. system. This condition is indicated to the driver by a message (where fitted). This message disappears automatically as soon as the radio frequency interference no longer affects the system.

Exterior
light fault

The warning lamp (or the symbol on the display) lights up if a fault is detected in one of the following lights:

  • Parking lights
  • Stop (brake) light or the corresponding fuse (see description of the symbol)

  • Rear Fog Light
  • Turn indicators
  • License plate lamp.

A fault in these lamps could be: one or more bulbs burnt out, the relevant fuse blown or an interruption in the electrical connection.

The corresponding message appears in the display.

Brake
light fault

The symbol on the display lights up if a fault is detected in the stop (brake) light.

A fault in these lamps could be: one or more bulbs burnt out, the relevant fuse blown or an interruption in the electrical connection.

On some versions, the warning light comes on instead..



Rear fog light

The warning lamp lights up when the rear fog light is switched on.


Front fog light

The warning lamp lights up when the front fog lights are switched on.


Left turn indicator

The warning lamp lights up when the turn indicator lever is pushed down, or together with the right indicator when the hazard warning button is pressed.

Right
turn indicator

The warning lamp lights up when the turn indicator lever is pushed up, or together with the left indicator when the hazard warning button is pressed.

Parking/dipped beam light
Follow me home Parking/dipped beam light

The warning lamp lights up when the side, parking or dipped headlights are switched on.

Follow me home

The warning lamp lights up when this device is used (see "Follow me home" in the chapter "Instrument panel and controls").

A corresponding message appears in the display.

High beam (blue)

The warning lamp lights up when the main beam is switched on.

Cruise
control

When the ignition key is turned to ON, the warning light comes on but must go out after a few seconds.

The warning lamp on the instrument panel lights up when the cruise control switch is set to ON.

A corresponding message appears in the display.

Test yourself

A quick Fiat Bravo quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.