What every red warning light on the Peugeot 406 I means, from the STOP light to oil pressure and brakes, plus what to do, for cars built from July 2002.
A red warning light on your Peugeot 406 usually means something needs your attention straight away. Some point to a serious problem where you should stop as soon as it is safe, while others are simple reminders, such as an open door or an unfastened seat belt.
This guide covers the first-generation Peugeot 406 (406 I) and is based on handbook edition ed02-02, which applies to cars produced from 1 July 2002. Some lamps depend on the version or equipment of your car, so you may not see every one of them on your instrument panel.
Scroll the table sideways.
| Warning | Urgency | In short |
|---|---|---|
| Central (STOP) warning light | Stop safely, get help | Serious fault, stop immediately if flashing |
| Engine oil pressure warning light | Stop safely, get help | Low oil pressure or oil level |
| Low coolant level warning light | Stop safely, get help | Coolant level low, stop immediately |
| Handbrake, low brake fluid level and electronic brake force distribution warning light | Stop safely, get help | Handbrake on, low brake fluid or EBFD fault |
| Battery charge warning light | Get it checked soon | Charging fault with engine running |
| Seat belt not fastened warning light | Action needed from you | Driver's seat belt not fastened |
| Door open warning light | Action needed from you | A door or the boot is open |
| Coolant temperature indicator | Stop safely, get help | Engine too hot, stop immediately |
This is the central warning light marked STOP. It works together with the engine oil pressure, low brake fluid level and electronic brake force distribution fault warning lights, and with the coolant temperature gauge. It comes on each time you switch on the ignition. If it flashes while the engine is running, there is a serious problem and you must stop immediately.
What to do:
When you switch on the ignition:
If it flashes with the engine running:
This is the engine oil pressure warning light, and it works together with the central STOP warning light. If it comes on while the engine is running, the oil pressure is too low or there is not enough oil in the lubrication circuit.
What to do:
This is the low coolant level warning light. When it comes on, the coolant level is too low and you must stop immediately. The cooling system is under pressure, so take care when you top it up.
What to do:
This is the braking warning light, and it comes on each time you switch on the ignition. On its own, it tells you the handbrake is on or has not been fully released. Together with the central STOP warning light, it can warn of a brake fluid problem or 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 handbrake released and the STOP light is also on, the brake fluid level has dropped too far:
If it comes on with the STOP light and the ABS warning light, there is an EBFD fault:
This is the battery charge warning light, and it comes on each time you switch on the ignition. If it comes on while the engine is running, the charging circuit may be faulty, the battery or starter terminals may be loose, the alternator belt may be cut or slack, or the alternator may have a fault.
What to do:
When you switch on the ignition:
If it comes on with the engine running:
This is the seat belt warning light. It comes on while the engine is running if your seat belt, as the driver, is not fastened.
What to do:
This is the door open warning light. While the engine is running, it tells you a door is not properly closed or the boot is open.
What to do:
This is the coolant temperature gauge, which works together with the central STOP warning light. When the needle is in zone A, the temperature is correct. When the needle is in zone B, the temperature is too high and the STOP warning light flashes.
What to do:
If the needle is in zone A:
If the needle is in zone B and the STOP light flashes:
If a red light comes on and you are not sure what it means, stay calm, stop somewhere safe and check this guide or your handbook. If you are still unsure, contact a PEUGEOT dealer before driving on.
Red warning lights on your Peugeot 406 are there to protect you and your car, so it pays to know them before you need them. Keep this guide handy and act promptly whenever one comes on.
Related guides: Peugeot 406 I (2002) orange warning lights and all Peugeot 406 guides.
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