While driving

Warning lamps and indicator lamps

~3min read
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings
Lit up Possible cause Correction
Brake system fault. Do not drive on!
Use expert assistance immediately .
Brake fluid level is too low. Do not drive on!
Check brake fluid level .
Together with ABS indicator lamp : ABS not functioning. Go to a qualified workshop. The vehicle can be braked without ABS.
The handbrake is on. Release the handbrake.
Front brake pads worn. Go to a qualified workshop immediately. Have all brake pads checked and renewed as necessary.
ESP switched off by the system. Switch the ignition on and off. If necessary, drive a short distance.
ESP fault. Go to a qualified workshop.
Together with ABS indicator lamp : ABS faulty. Go to a qualified workshop. The vehicle can be braked without ABS.
Vehicle battery has been reconnected.
TCS switched off manually. Switch on TCS . Switch on TCS automatically by switching the ignition off and on.
In conjunction with ESP indicator lamp : ABS faulty. Go to a qualified workshop. The vehicle can be braked without ABS.
Together with warning lamp : ABS not functioning.
Brake pedal not depressed. To select a gear, press the brake pedal.
Flashes Possible cause Correction
ESP/TCS is taking corrective action. Remove foot from accelerator pedal. Adapt driving style to suit road conditions.

Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly when the ignition is switched on while the vehicle runs functional checks. They will switch off after a few seconds.

Failure to observe the warning lamps and text messages could lead to your vehicle breaking down in traffic, accidents and serious injuries.
  • Never ignore warning lamps and text messages.
  • Stop the vehicle as soon as it is possible and safe to do so.
Driving with poor brakes can result in accidents and serious injuries.
  • If the brake warning lamp does not go out, or if it lights up when driving, the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low or there is a fault in the brake system. Stop the vehicle immediately and make use of expert assistance .
  • If the brake warning lamp lights up together with the ABS warning lamp , the control function of the ABS may have failed. This could cause the rear wheels to lock quickly when you brake. Locked rear wheels can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle! If possible, reduce your speed and drive carefully at low speed to the next qualified workshop in order to have the brake system tested. Avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres on the way.
  • The ABS is not functioning correctly if the ABS indicator lamp does not go out or comes on whilst the vehicle is in motion. The vehicle can be stopped using the normal brakes only (without ABS). The protection provided by ABS is no longer available. Go to a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
  • If lights up either individually or together with a text message in the display of the instrument cluster, go to a qualified workshop immediately and have the brake pads checked or have worn brake pads replaced.

NOTICE

Failure to observe the warning lamps and text messages could lead to your vehicle being damaged.

Test yourself

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