Peugeot 308 Indicators: Red Warnings

Welcome to our Peugeot 308 Indicators review. In this guide, we’ll go over the various warning and indicator lights you might see on your Peugeot 308. Understanding these lights and knowing what actions to take when they appear is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle. Whether you drive a petrol, diesel, hybrid, or rechargeable hybrid model, this guide will help you understand what each indicator means. These lights serve important functions, such as alerting you to stop driving or indicating engine issues. Our goal is to make it easier for you to recognize and respond to these warnings.

From the critical STOP warning to the advisories about seat belts, each indicator serves a specific purpose, alerting you to different aspects of your car’s condition and operation. This blog aims to demystify these symbols, providing clear explanations and actionable advice to ensure you remain informed and prepared on the road.

Peugeot 308 Indicators: STOP Warning

What Does the Peugeot 308 Stop Warning Mean?

This warning lamp is fixed and is often presented alongside another warning lamp. It’s complemented by a message on the vehicle’s display and an audible signal to catch your attention. When this light illuminates, it signifies that a serious fault has been detected. The issues could lie within the engine, braking system, power steering, automatic gearbox, or there might be a major electrical fault causing the warning to trigger.

What Should I Do If the Stop Warning Light Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

The appearance of the STOP warning light on your dashboard is a signal that demands immediate attention. Firstly, if you’re driving, begin to decelerate carefully. Look for a safe place to pull over – avoiding sudden maneuvers and maintaining a steady, slow speed is crucial. Once you’ve found a safe location, come to a complete stop and turn off the vehicle’s ignition. This is a critical step to ensure your safety and prevent further damage to the vehicle. Following this, it’s imperative to contact a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or an Authorized Service Center for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs. Ignoring this warning could lead to more significant issues or compromise your safety on the road.

Traction Battery Overheating (Hybrid, Rechargeable hybrid or Electric)

What Does the Traction Battery Overheating Warning Mean in Hybrid, Rechargeable Hybrid, or Electric Peugeot 308?

When the traction battery overheating warning illuminates, it does so in conjunction with the STOP warning lamp. This specific warning is critical, especially for hybrid, rechargeable hybrid, or electric models of the Peugeot 308. Accompanied by an audible signal and a message displayed on the dashboard, this warning signifies that the temperature of the traction battery has exceeded normal operating levels. It’s a clear indicator that the battery is too hot, which could pose a risk to the vehicle’s safety and functionality.

What Should I Do If the Traction Battery Overheating Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

If this warning appears while driving, immediate action is required. Firstly, safely decelerate and find a secure place to pull over. Given the potential risks associated with battery overheating, including damage to the battery system or even safety hazards, stopping the vehicle as soon as you safely can is imperative. Turn off your vehicle to prevent further overheating and to allow the battery to begin cooling down. Then, it is essential to contact a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. They can provide professional assistance, inspect the battery system for any faults, and perform necessary repairs or adjustments to ensure your vehicle’s safety and reliability. Ignoring this warning or delaying action could lead to significant damage or safety concerns.

Traction Battery Malfunction (Hybrid, Rechargeable hybrid or Electric)

What Does the Traction Battery Malfunction Warning Mean in Peugeot 308?

For owners of hybrid, rechargeable hybrid, or electric versions of the Peugeot 308, the traction battery malfunction warning is a critical alert. This warning illuminates in tandem with the Service warning lamp and is further emphasized by a message displayed on your vehicle’s dashboard. The activation of this warning light indicates a fault within the traction battery system. Such faults could range from minor issues requiring simple fixes to major problems that might necessitate comprehensive battery repairs or replacement.

What Should I Do If the Traction Battery Malfunction Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

Upon noticing the traction battery malfunction warning, your immediate course of action should be to plan a visit to a service center. While this situation does not typically require you to stop driving immediately (unless accompanied by other warning lights or if you notice unusual vehicle behavior), it is crucial not to ignore this alert. Schedule an appointment with a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center at your earliest convenience. Qualified technicians will then inspect your vehicle, diagnose the specific issue with the traction battery, and undertake the necessary repairs or replacements. Addressing this warning promptly ensures the longevity and safety of your vehicle, preventing potential future breakdowns and maintaining optimal performance.

Maximum Coolant Temperature Warning

What Does the Maximum Coolant Temperature Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

The maximum coolant temperature warning is a critical alert that signifies the cooling system’s temperature has risen beyond its operational threshold. When this warning is fixed on your dashboard, it indicates that the engine or the cooling system is too hot, which can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. Overheating can occur due to various issues, including low coolant levels, a malfunctioning radiator, or problems with the water pump or cooling fan.

What Should I Do If the Maximum Coolant Temperature Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

If you notice the maximum coolant temperature warning light, it’s essential to act immediately to prevent engine damage. Firstly, safely pull over to a secure location and turn off the engine. This action helps prevent further overheating. Before taking any further steps, wait until the engine has completely cooled down. Once it’s safe, check the coolant level and top it up if necessary. However, if the coolant level appears normal or if the warning light persists after topping up, this indicates a more severe issue that requires professional attention.

 In such cases, it’s crucial to carry out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. Qualified technicians will inspect your vehicle’s cooling system, diagnose the underlying cause of the overheating, and perform the necessary repairs. Ignoring this warning or delaying action could lead to significant engine damage, which could be costly to repair.

Engine Oil Pressure (Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid or Rechargeable hybrid)

What Does the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Mean in Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid, or Rechargeable Hybrid Peugeot 308?

The engine oil pressure warning is a crucial alert for any vehicle, including petrol, diesel, hybrid, or rechargeable hybrid Peugeot 308 models. When this warning remains illuminated on your dashboard, it signifies a fault within the engine’s lubrication system. Adequate oil pressure is vital for the proper lubrication and cooling of the engine’s moving parts. A drop in oil pressure can indicate low oil levels, a failing oil pump, blockages in the oil system, or other significant issues that could lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.

What Should I Do If the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

If the engine oil pressure warning light comes on, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your engine from potential damage. The first step is to safely pull over to the side of the road and turn off the engine. This precaution helps prevent further damage to the engine components due to insufficient lubrication. After stopping, check the engine oil level using the dipstick. If the oil level is low, topping it up may temporarily resolve the issue, but it’s crucial to understand that the warning light indicates a more serious problem than just low oil.

The next step, after ensuring your immediate safety, is to seek professional assistance. This involves carrying out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. A professional technician will need to inspect your vehicle’s lubrication system to diagnose the exact cause of the low oil pressure warning. This could range from a simple issue like replacing the oil filter to more complex problems such as repairing or replacing the oil pump.

Ignoring this warning or delaying professional inspection and repair can lead to severe engine damage, including overheating, increased wear on engine components, and ultimately, engine failure. Prompt action is necessary to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle’s engine.

System Malfunction

What Does the System Malfunction Warning Mean in Hybrid, Rechargeable Hybrid, or Electric Peugeot 308?

The system malfunction warning is a significant alert specifically for hybrid, rechargeable hybrid, or electric models of the Peugeot 308. When this warning light is fixed on your dashboard, it indicates a detected fault within the vehicle’s system. This could pertain to the electric motor, the traction battery, or other components critical to the vehicle’s hybrid or electric operation. Such malfunctions could affect the vehicle’s performance, its ability to drive, or even its safety systems.

What Should I Do If the System Malfunction Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

Upon noticing the system malfunction warning, immediate action is necessary to ensure both your safety and the vehicle’s integrity. Firstly, safely pull over to the side of the road and turn off the vehicle. This step is crucial to prevent potential damage to the vehicle’s electrical system or components. After ensuring you and your vehicle are in a safe location, the next step involves seeking professional assistance. This means carrying out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center.

It’s essential to have your vehicle inspected by professionals who are specifically trained to diagnose and repair hybrid, rechargeable hybrid, or electric vehicles. They will be able to identify the exact cause of the system malfunction warning and perform the necessary repairs or adjustments. Given the complex nature of these systems, attempting to diagnose or fix the issue on your own is not recommended. Ignoring this warning or delaying the professional assessment and repair can lead to more significant problems, potentially affecting the vehicle’s performance and safety.

Cable Connected (Rechargeable hybrid or Electric)

What Does the Cable Connected Warning Mean in Rechargeable Hybrid or Electric Peugeot 308?

The Cable Connected warning serves as an essential reminder for owners of rechargeable hybrid or electric Peugeot 308 models. This warning remains illuminated when the ignition is switched on to indicate that the charging cable is still connected to the vehicle’s charging port. A message accompanying this warning reinforces the message: the vehicle cannot be started as long as the charging cable is connected. This safety feature is designed to prevent any damage to the vehicle or charging equipment and to ensure safety during the charging process.

What Should I Do If the Cable Connected Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

Seeing the Cable Connected warning upon attempting to start your vehicle requires a simple but crucial action. Firstly, ensure that the ignition is off. Then, proceed to safely disconnect the charging cable from your vehicle’s connector. Once the cable has been disconnected, securely close the flap over the charging port to protect it from dirt and debris. After these steps have been completed, you should be able to start your vehicle normally.

This warning is a straightforward reminder to disconnect your vehicle from its charging source before driving. It’s an important step in the operation of rechargeable hybrid and electric vehicles, ensuring the safety of the electrical systems and preventing any potential mishaps related to driving away while still plugged in. Always make sure to check that the charging cable is disconnected before attempting to start your vehicle to avoid any inconvenience.

12 V Battery Charge

What Does the 12 V Battery Charge Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

The 12 V Battery Charge warning illuminates to inform you of a fault within the battery charging circuit of your Peugeot 308. This could be due to a variety of issues such as dirty terminals, a loose or severed alternator belt, among other potential problems. This warning is crucial as the 12 V battery powers the vehicle’s electrical systems, including the lights, radio, and other essential components. A malfunction in the charging circuit could lead to the battery not being charged properly, which might eventually result in the vehicle failing to start or operate correctly.

What Should I Do If the 12 V Battery Charge Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

Upon noticing the 12 V Battery Charge warning, immediate action should be taken to address the potential issue. Firstly, if the electric parking brake stops functioning due to this issue, ensure the vehicle is immobilized to prevent it from rolling:

• For a manual gearbox, engage a gear.
• For an automatic gearbox or drive selector, place a chock against one of the wheels to secure the vehicle.

The next step involves inspecting the battery terminals. Clean and tighten the terminals as necessary, as loose or dirty connections can often cause charging issues. If, after cleaning and tightening the terminals, the warning lamp remains illuminated when the engine is started, further action is required. This indicates a more serious problem that needs professional attention.

At this point, carry out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. A professional technician can diagnose the issue, whether it’s related to the alternator, the battery itself, or another component of the charging system. Ignoring this warning or delaying the professional diagnosis and repair could lead to your vehicle becoming inoperable or experiencing further electrical issues.

Braking

What Does the Braking Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

The braking warning on your Peugeot 308 can signify one of two critical issues related to the vehicle’s braking system. The first scenario indicates that the brake fluid level in the braking circuit has significantly dropped. Brake fluid is vital for the operation of the brakes; a drop in its level can compromise braking performance, potentially increasing stopping distances or leading to brake failure.

The second scenario flagged by this warning concerns a fault in the electronic brake force distribution (EBFD) system. EBFD is a crucial safety feature that optimizes brake force distribution between wheels depending on load, road conditions, and speed, enhancing vehicle stability and braking efficiency.

What Should I Do If the Braking Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

If the Warning is Due to Low Brake Fluid:

1. Check the brake fluid level. If it’s low, top up the brake fluid reservoir with fluid that complies with the manufacturer’s specifications. This is a temporary measure to ensure safety until you can have the vehicle checked.
2. If topping up the brake fluid doesn’t resolve the issue or the fluid level drops again soon after, it indicates a possible leak in the braking system, which is a serious concern. In this case, carry out (2) by seeking professional assistance from a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. They can inspect the braking system for leaks or other issues that could cause the fluid level to drop.

If the Warning is Due to an EBFD System Fault:

1. Given the complexity and the safety-critical nature of the EBFD system, immediate professional diagnosis and repair are necessary. Driving the vehicle with a malfunctioning EBFD system can significantly affect its braking performance and safety.
2. Contact a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center without delay. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the fault accurately and carry out the necessary repairs to the EBFD system.

In both cases, it’s crucial not to ignore these warnings. The braking system is fundamental to your safety and the safety of others on the road. Ensuring that it’s functioning correctly should always be a priority.

Electric Parking Brake

What Does the Electric Parking Brake Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

The electric parking brake warning light on your Peugeot 308 serves two main purposes, indicated by whether the light is fixed or flashing. When the light is fixed, it simply means that the electric parking brake is currently applied. This is a normal condition indicating that the brake is engaged to secure the vehicle when parked.

However, if the warning light is flashing, it signals a malfunction with the application or release of the electric parking brake. This condition suggests a potential issue with the parking brake system, which may prevent the brake from being applied or released properly, potentially affecting the vehicle’s safety and functionality.

What Should I Do If the Electric Parking Brake Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

If the Warning Light is Fixed:

No immediate action is required other than to ensure you disengage the parking brake before attempting to drive.

If the Warning Light is Flashing:

1. First, ensure that you park your vehicle on flat ground to prevent it from rolling, especially if the parking brake is not engaging properly.
2. For vehicles with a manual gearbox, engage a gear to help secure the vehicle. If your vehicle has an automatic gearbox or drive selector, select mode P (Park).
3. After securing the vehicle, switch off the ignition. This action is a preliminary measure before seeking professional help.
4. The next step is to seek professional assistance to diagnose and repair the fault. Carry out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. They have the specialized knowledge and equipment to diagnose the issue accurately and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments to the electric parking brake system.

Ignoring a flashing electric parking brake warning could lead to safety risks, including the inability to securely park the vehicle. Immediate attention to this warning ensures your vehicle remains safe and functional.

Power Steering

What Does the Power Steering Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

When the power steering warning light is illuminated on your Peugeot 308’s dashboard, accompanied by an audible signal, it signifies a fault within the power steering system. Power steering is essential for reducing the physical effort needed to steer the vehicle, particularly at lower speeds or when stationary. A malfunction in this system can significantly increase the steering effort required, which could affect the vehicle’s maneuverability and potentially compromise safety.

What Should I Do If the Power Steering Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

Immediate Action: The increase in steering effort, especially under low-speed conditions or when trying to park, is the most immediate impact of a power steering system fault. If you notice the warning light while driving, try to find a safe place to pull over and park. This precaution is necessary because the increased steering effort can catch drivers off guard, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions.

Professional Inspection and Repair: After ensuring your immediate safety by parking the vehicle, the next step is to seek professional assistance. Carry out (2) by contacting a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Authorized Service Center. A fault in the power steering system can stem from various issues, including electrical problems (in the case of electric power steering systems), hydraulic issues (with hydraulic power steering systems), or mechanical failures.

Professional technicians at the service center will have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose the problem accurately. They can check for common issues like low power steering fluid (in hydraulic systems), electrical faults, or mechanical wear and tear. After identifying the root cause, they will perform the necessary repairs or adjustments to restore the proper function of your power steering system.

Given the importance of power steering for safe vehicle operation, addressing this warning promptly is crucial to maintaining your vehicle’s safety and drivability. Ignoring this warning could result in deteriorating steering performance and potentially dangerous driving conditions.

Door(s) Open

What Does the Door(s) Open Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

The Door(s) Open warning light in your Peugeot 308, complemented by a fixed display and often an accompanying message that specifies which door or the boot is affected, signifies that a door or the boot of the vehicle is not properly closed. This warning is crucial for ensuring the safety of the vehicle’s occupants, as driving with an open door or boot can lead to potential hazards. If the vehicle’s speed exceeds 6 mph (10 km/h), an audible signal will supplement the alert to ensure the driver is aware of the open access point, even while focused on driving.

What Should I Do If the Door(s) Open Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

1. If the warning light appears while you are driving, it is advisable to safely reduce your speed and find a secure place to stop. Once parked safely, you should check each door and the boot to identify which one is not properly closed.
2. After identifying the open door or boot, ensure that it is securely closed. It’s also a good practice to check the other doors, even if the message specifies a particular one, to ensure all passengers are safe and the vehicle is secure.
3. Once all doors and the boot are confirmed to be properly closed, you can safely continue your journey. Keep an eye on the dashboard to ensure that the warning light goes off, indicating that all access points are secure.

This warning system is designed to enhance your safety by preventing accidents that may occur from passengers opening doors unexpectedly or from items falling out of an unsecured boot. Addressing this warning promptly ensures that you and your passengers remain safe while traveling in your Peugeot 308.

Seat Belts Not Fastened/Unfastened

What Does the Seat Belts Not Fastened/Unfastened Warning Mean in a Peugeot 308?

In your Peugeot 308, the Seat Belts Not Fastened/Unfastened warning serves as an important reminder and safety feature. This warning, which can appear as either fixed or flashing on your dashboard, is accompanied by an increasing audible signal to draw attention. It indicates that one or more seat belts in the vehicle have not been fastened or have been unfastened while the vehicle is in motion. Seat belts are a fundamental component of vehicle safety, significantly reducing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

What Should I Do If the Seat Belts Not Fastened/Unfastened Warning Comes On in My Peugeot 308?

1. If this warning appears while driving, it’s critical to address it immediately for the safety of all passengers. First, safely reduce your speed and find a suitable place to stop if it’s not feasible for passengers to buckle up while the vehicle is moving.
2. Check each seat to identify which seat belt has not been fastened. Make sure every passenger, including yourself, has their seat belt securely fastened. If the warning was triggered by a seat belt that was momentarily unfastened, ensure it is re-secured properly.
3. Occasionally, objects placed on seats can trigger seat belt warnings. Ensure there are no heavy items on any of the seats that could be causing the warning to activate. Remove any such items or secure them properly in the trunk or storage compartments.
4. Once all seat belts are fastened and the warning light turns off, you can safely continue your drive. Keeping the audible signal in mind, it’s a good practice to periodically remind passengers of the importance of wearing seat belts throughout the journey.

The seat belt warning system in your Peugeot 308 is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all occupants by encouraging the use of seat belts at all times. Adhering to this warning not only helps in preventing potential injuries but also promotes safer driving habits among all vehicle occupants.

Navigating the array of warning and indicator lamps on your Peugeot 308 dashboard need not be a daunting task. Armed with the knowledge of what each symbol means and the recommended actions to take, you can drive with confidence, knowing you’re equipped to handle potential issues effectively. Remember, these warnings are designed to protect you, your passengers, and your vehicle by alerting you to early signs of mechanical or electrical issues. Addressing them promptly not only ensures your safety but also contributes to the longevity and reliability of your Peugeot 308. Should you encounter any of these warnings, we urge you to follow the recommended steps and seek professional assistance when necessary. Safe travels!

Knowing what the Peugeot 308 indicators mean can help you stay safe on the road. These warning lights are there to inform you when something in your car needs attention. By addressing these issues promptly, you can prevent small problems from becoming major ones. For instance, if a light indicates an engine problem, it’s important to stop and get it checked out right away to avoid further damage.

For more detailed information about the Peugeot 308, read our Peugeot 308 review, which covers all aspects of the car. If you own the petrol version, check out our Peugeot 308 petrol engine review for specific details on that engine. Taking care of your car and understanding these indicators will help ensure it runs smoothly and safely for a long time. Safe driving!

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