Red warning lights on the Peugeot 406 Break from April 2003 explained: what the STOP, oil, coolant and brake lights mean and what you should do next.
A red warning light is the most serious message your dashboard can give you. It usually means you need to stop as soon as it is safe to do so, or at least deal with the problem straight away.
This guide covers the Peugeot 406 Break and is based on handbook edition ed02-03, which applies to vehicles produced from 1 April 2003. Some lamps depend on the version or equipment of your car, so not every light here will appear on yours.
Scroll the table sideways.
| Warning | Urgency | In short |
|---|---|---|
| Central (STOP) warning light | Stop safely, get help | Flashing while driving: stop immediately |
| Engine oil pressure warning light | Stop safely, get help | Low oil pressure: stop immediately |
| Low coolant level warning light | Stop safely, get help | Low coolant: stop and let engine cool |
| Handbrake, low brake fluid level and electronic brake force distribution warning light | Stop safely, get help | Handbrake on, low brake fluid or EBFD fault |
| Coolant temperature indicator | Stop safely, get help | Needle in zone B: engine too hot |
| You must stop immediately | Stop safely, get help | Stop immediately and get help |
This lamp shows the word STOP in the centre of the instrument panel.
It comes on each time you switch on the ignition. It works together with the engine oil pressure, low brake fluid level, coolant temperature and electronic brake force distribution warning lights. If it flashes while the engine is running, something serious needs your attention.
What to do:
If it comes on when you switch on the ignition:
If it flashes with the engine running:
This lamp shows the engine oil pressure symbol and works together with the central STOP warning light.
If it comes on with the engine running, it means either the oil pressure is too low or there is not enough oil in the lubrication circuit.
What to do:
This lamp shows the low coolant level symbol.
When it comes on, the coolant level is too low. The cooling system is under pressure, so take care to avoid the risk of scalding.
What to do:
This lamp shows the braking symbol and comes on each time you switch on the ignition.
On its own, it means the handbrake is on or has not been fully released. If it stays on with the handbrake released and the central STOP light is also lit, the brake fluid level has dropped too far. If it comes on together with the STOP light and the ABS warning light, there is a fault in the electronic brake force distribution system (EBFD).
What to do:
If the handbrake is on or not fully released:
If it stays on with the STOP light after you release the handbrake (low brake fluid):
If it comes on with the STOP light and the ABS light (EBFD fault):
This is the coolant temperature gauge, with a needle that moves between zone A and zone B.
When the needle is in zone A, the temperature is correct. When it reaches zone B, the temperature is too high and the central STOP warning light flashes.
What to do:
The handbook shows these symbols together with a clear instruction: you must stop immediately.
If you see them, treat it as a serious warning.
What to do:
If a red light comes on and you are not sure what it means, stay calm, stop somewhere safe and check your handbook. If in doubt, contact a PEUGEOT dealer before driving any further.
Red lights on your Peugeot 406 Break are there to protect you and your car, so never ignore them. Acting quickly is the best way to stay safe and avoid bigger problems later.
Related guides: Peugeot 406 Break (2003) orange warning lights and all Peugeot 406 guides.
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