Despite modern cars being equipped with warnings designed to inform drivers of any problems, a new survey has found most are unable to understand what their dashboard is telling them.
Tempcover asked 2,000 drivers if they could correctly identify warning symbols, whether they have ignored them when illuminated, for how long, and the main reason for doing do. Of all respondants, 91% failed to identify all dashboard warning symbols.
The survey asked drivers to correctly match an image of each light with its corresponding meeting. The result indicates a major gap in driver awareness, one which could lead to vehicle breakdowns and potential engine damage.
Misunderstanding common warning symbols
The most commonly misidentified symbols include the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) warning light, which helps prevent skidding, the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) symbol, designed to reduce harmful emissions, and the Tyre Pressure warning light, which alerts drivers to low tyre pressure.
| Dashboard symbol | % of respondents unable to correctly identify the meaning |
| Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) warning light | 73% |
| Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) warning light | 62% |
| Tyre pressure warning light | 57% |
| Engine warning light | 39% |
| Power steering warning light | 33% |
| Engine temperature/Coolant light | 28% |
| Oil pressure warning | 20% |
| Airbag/Seatbelt warning light | 18% |
| ABS/Brake warnings | 10% |
| Battery warning light | 9% |
The survey found that 39% of drivers failed to recognise the engine warning light on their dashboard. Alongside this, 22% admitting to driving with the symbol illuminated. When asked how long before they had the warning symbol’s meaning check. 37% of drivers then said it took them a week or more.
Dangerous lack of awareness
The main reasons for continuing to drive with a dashboard sign illuminated were that the driver did not think it was serious or urgent, with 29% admitting to this. Another 23% stated they did not feel any immediate impact on the car’s performance. One in 10 admitted it was because they did not know what the warning light meant.
These results indicate a lack of awareness over how a car communicates any issues. Most worryingly, ignoring certain warning symbols, such as the engine or oil lights, can lead to serious engine damage. Even worse, running with poorly-inflated tyres could lead to a serious accident.
