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Fiat 500 Dashboard Warning Lights Explained
If you’ve ever noticed a warning light flash on your Fiat 500, you’re not alone.
Fiat uses many of the same diagnostic signals as other manufacturers, but there are some lights and behaviours unique to Fiat, or specific to diesel, hybrid etc.
Let’s try to unpack what these mean and what you should do – if anything – to fix them.
Colour Codes: What They Mean in a Fiat 500
- Green or Blue – Informational or system active.
- Yellow / Amber / Orange – Caution. A developing issue that should be checked soon.
- Red – Critical. Something serious; stop when it is safe and get it addressed.
Red Fiat 500 Warning Lights (Stop When Safe)
These are serious warnings. If a red light appears (especially with a message or sound), pull over safely and don’t ignore it.
| Warning Light | What It Means | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Low Engine Oil Pressure | Oil pressure is too low. Could be due to very low oil, faulty oil pump, or leak. The light should go off after start-up; if it doesn’t, it’s urgent. | Stop immediately. Check oil level. If low, top up. If stays on, don’t drive; get help. |
| Engine Overheating / Coolant Temperature Too High | Coolant has exceeded safe temperature. | Pull over, turn off engine, allow to cool. Check coolant level. If okay and light still on after restart, get help. |
| Battery / Charging System Fault | Battery not charging or alternator issue. Hybrid versions may also warn of auxiliary battery or hybrid system faults. | Drive gently to a garage. Avoid heavy loads; don’t let battery go flat. |
| Airbag or Seatbelt System Fault | If the airbag light remains on after ignition, there may be a fault in airbags or seatbelt pretensioners. | Get this checked ASAP; safety systems may not function in an accident. |
| Low Brake Fluid / Handbrake Engaged | Combined light covers both low brake fluid and parking brake on. | Check the handbrake is fully released. Then check brake fluid. If low, top up. If light stays on or fluid drops quickly, seek service. |
| “Dualogic” Transmission Failure | For models with the Dualogic gearbox, a warning appears if there is a transmission fault. | Stop driving as safely as possible. Arrange diagnostics. |
| “DualDrive” Power Steering Failure | If the electric power steering fails, steering effort becomes heavier. | Drive carefully, avoid sharp turns, and have the system serviced. |
Yellow / Amber Warning Lights (Check Soon)
These warn you that something is deteriorating or needs attention. Not usually immediately dangerous, but delays can lead to serious problems.
| Warning Light | What It Means | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Check Engine / Injection / EOBD Failure | Fault in emissions, engine control or fuel system. If flashing, it can mean severe damage risk. | Book diagnostic check. Reduce revs if flashing. Don’t ignore. |
| ABS / ESC / Traction System Warning | Fault or deactivation of systems. ESC light may flash when active in slippery conditions; if it stays on, there’s a malfunction. | Have brakes & stability systems inspected. |
| Brake Pad Wear | Indicates brake pads are worn. | Replace brake pads soon; worn pads damage rotors/drums. |
| Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPMS) | One or more tyres under-inflated, or system fault. | Check and adjust all tyre pressures. Reset system if needed. |
| Glow Plug Warning (Diesel Models) | Glow plugs warming up at ignition. If it stays on or flashes after start, there’s a fault. | Get glow plugs or control system checked. |
| DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Warning Light | Filter needs regeneration or is clogged. | Drive at motorway speeds to allow regeneration; if persists, have it cleaned or replaced. |
Green / Blue / Info-Only Lights
These indicate systems are active or provide general information. They don’t mean a fault.
- High Beams (blue) – High beams are on.
- Indicators (green) – Your indicators are flashing. Rapid flashing means a bulb is out.
- Fog Lights (green) – Fog lights are switched on.
- Side / dipped headlights (green) – Lights active.
- Open doors / bonnet / boot – Warning when not fully closed.
- Seatbelt reminder – Appears red, sometimes flashing, with a chime.
Other Important Warning / Reminder Lights
- Service Reminder (spanner/wrench) – Indicates scheduled service is due.
- Fuel Reserve / Low Fuel Warning – Activates when only a small amount of fuel remains.
- General / Master Warning Light (triangle with exclamation mark) – Covers multiple alerts, often shown with a display message.
- Exterior Light / Bulb Failures – Warns of a failed headlight, indicator, or other bulb.
What to Do When a Fiat 500 Warning Light Appears
- Check the colour: Red = stop immediately, yellow = check soon, green / blue = information only.
- Look for a display message: The Fiat 500 often gives text messages alongside warning icons.
- Refer to your owner’s manual: Some lights differ depending on year, trim, and engine type.
- Don’t ignore flashing lights: Especially for engine or emissions warnings, flashing means urgent.
- Book a service: If in doubt, get professional diagnostics to avoid expensive repairs.