What Do Peugeot 308 Warning Lights Mean?

Welcome to our comprehensive review of Peugeot 308 Warning Lights. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the various warning indicators on your Peugeot 308, helping you understand what each light means and what actions you need to take. Whether it’s the service indicator, engine oil level alert, or AdBlue® range indicator, knowing these signals can keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. Let’s dive into the details so you can be well-prepared for any situation on the road.

Peugeot 308 Warning Lights: Service Indicator

What Does The Service Indicator Mean on Peugeot 308?

The Service Indicator on your Peugeot 308 serves as a crucial reminder for routine maintenance. Displayed on the instrument panel, it shows either the distance remaining before the next service is due, or how much distance has been covered since the service became due (indicated by a “-” sign). The indicator provides this information in terms of distance (miles or kilometres) and time (months or days), alerting you based on whichever term is reached first. This proactive feature ensures that your vehicle is serviced at the right intervals, maintaining its performance and longevity.

What is the Purpose of the Service Indicator in Peugeot 308?

The purpose of the Service Indicator in the Peugeot 308 is to ensure timely maintenance and servicing of your vehicle. By indicating the distance until the next service or how overdue the service is, it helps maintain the car’s optimal performance, reliability, and safety. This feature aids in preventing future mechanical issues by reminding you when it’s time to visit a service center, thus prolonging the life of your vehicle and ensuring it runs efficiently.

How Does the Service Spanner Icon Function in Peugeot 308?

When you start the Peugeot 308, you may notice the Service Spanner icon on your dashboard. This icon’s behavior is an important indicator of your vehicle’s service needs:

Temporarily On: It lights up briefly when the ignition is turned on, signaling that between 620 and 1,860 miles (1,000 and 3,000 km) remain before the next service is due.

Fixed: If the spanner icon stays on when the ignition is on and the vehicle has less than 620 miles (1,000 km) before the next service, it indicates that you should schedule a service very soon.

What Should You Do If the Service Spanner Icon Starts Flashing in Peugeot 308?

If the Service Spanner icon on your Peugeot 308 dashboard starts flashing and then remains fixed when you turn on the ignition, it’s a critical alert. This is especially common in models with BlueHDi Diesel engines and indicates that the scheduled service interval has been exceeded. Immediate attention is required; you should have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible to avoid potential damage and to ensure that your vehicle continues to operate smoothly and efficiently.

Resetting the Service Indicator

How to Reset the Service Indicator on Peugeot 308?

Resetting the Service Indicator in your Peugeot 308 is a necessary step to maintain accurate service records after each maintenance. Whether you’ve performed the service yourself or just want to ensure the system is up-to-date, here’s how you can reset it:

1. Turn off the ignition.
2. Press and hold the button located at the end of the lighting control stalk.
3. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine. This action triggers a temporary display window where a countdown will begin.
4. Once the display shows =0 and a confirmation message appears, release the button on the lighting control stalk. This will cause the spanner symbol to disappear, indicating a successful reset.

Important Note After Resetting the Service Indicator in Peugeot 308

If you disconnect the battery after resetting the service indicator, remember to lock the vehicle and wait at least 5 minutes. This waiting period allows the vehicle’s system to fully register the reset. Skipping this step might lead to an incomplete reset, requiring the procedure to be performed again.

Reminder Of The Servicing Information

How to Access Servicing Information on Peugeot 308?

For Peugeot 308 owners, staying informed about your vehicle’s servicing needs is simplified through the intuitive touchscreen interface. To access the detailed servicing information, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the main menu on your vehicle’s touchscreen.
2. Select the “Settings” option followed by choosing the “Vehicle” application.
3. Within the “Vehicle” menu, select “Safety” and then “Diagnostics.”

This sequence will lead you to the servicing information, where you can view details about maintenance intervals, diagnostic results, and other important vehicle performance data. It’s a convenient way to keep track of your car’s health and ensure it receives timely servicing.

Peugeot 308 Warning Lights: Engine Oil Level Indicator

What is the Engine Oil Level Indicator in Peugeot 308?

The Peugeot 308 is equipped with an advanced feature for monitoring engine oil level, which is particularly useful to ensure your vehicle’s engine runs smoothly. Depending on the version of your 308, the engine oil level status may be displayed on the instrument panel for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on, right after the servicing information. It’s important to note that this reading is accurate only if the vehicle is on level ground and the engine has been off for more than 30 minutes.

What to Do If You See a Low Oil Level Warning in Peugeot 308?

If the message “Oil level incorrect” appears on your dashboard, accompanied by the Service warning lamp and an audible signal, it indicates a low oil level. This is a critical warning as running your car with insufficient oil can cause severe damage to the engine. You should confirm the oil level using the manual dipstick and top it up if necessary to ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle.

How to Respond to an Oil Gauge Malfunction in Peugeot 308?

Sometimes, you might encounter a message stating “Oil level measurement invalid” on your instrument panel. This indicates a malfunction with the electric gauge that measures the oil level. In such cases, it is advised to consult a Peugeot dealer or a qualified workshop for repairs. Until the electric gauge is fixed, you will need to manually check the oil level using the dipstick in the engine compartment to avoid any risk of engine damage.

Keeping an eye on these indicators and responding promptly to the warnings can significantly extend the life of your engine and enhance your driving experience.

Coolant Temperature Indicator

How Does the Coolant Temperature Indicator Work in Peugeot 308?

The coolant temperature indicator on your Peugeot 308 is an essential tool for monitoring the engine’s heat levels. When the engine is running, the temperature reading is displayed in different zones on the instrument panel:

Zone A: Indicates that the temperature is within the correct range, meaning your engine is operating at a safe temperature.

Zone B: Signals that the temperature is too high. This critical condition is accompanied by the activation of a red warning lamp and the STOP warning lamp on the dashboard, alongside an audible signal and a message display.

What Should I Do If Your Peugeot 308 Overheats?

If your coolant temperature indicator enters Zone B, indicating overheating, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent engine damage:

1. Stop driving and pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.
2. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes to allow it to cool down.
3. Carefully open the bonnet and check the coolant level to determine if there has been a leak or if coolant needs to be added.

Continuing to drive with an overheated engine can lead to significant damage and costly repairs. It is advisable to consult the section on ‘Checking Levels’ in your vehicle manual for detailed instructions on how to properly check and refill your coolant, or visit a professional mechanic if the situation persists.

AdBlue® Range Indicators (BlueHDi)

What is The AdBlue® Range Indicators in Peugeot 308 BlueHDi?

Peugeot 308 BlueHDi models are equipped with a sophisticated emissions control technology known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) along with a Diesel Particle Filter (DPF). This system crucially relies on AdBlue® fluid to function effectively. The vehicle’s instrument panel will alert you when the level of AdBlue® drops below the reserve level, showing an estimate of the distance that can still be traveled before the engine will prevent starting.

How Peugeot 308 AdBlue® Level Indicators Work and What to Do?

Normal Level: While the driving range with adequate AdBlue® is greater than 1,500 miles (2,400 km), the indicator may not automatically display the remaining range. You can manually check this range through the Settings > Vehicle application on the touchscreen by selecting Safety > Diagnostics.

Low Level Warning: As the AdBlue® level falls below 1,500 miles (2,400 km), warning lamps and messages will activate to remind you to top up:

Between 1,500 miles and 500 miles (2,400 km and 800 km): Top up soon.

Between 500 miles and 62 miles (800 km and 100 km): Immediate top-up is critical to avoid engine start prevention.

Between 62 miles and 0 miles (100 km and 0 km): To restart the engine, it is mandatory to add at least 10 liters of AdBlue®.

Engine Start Prevention: Once the AdBlue® tank is empty, the vehicle will automatically activate the engine starting prevention system, making it impossible to start the engine until AdBlue® is replenished.

After Topping Up AdBlue®

After adding AdBlue®, the detection of the new level might not be immediate. It may require a few minutes of driving before the system recognizes the top-up and resets the indicators accordingly. This delay is normal and part of the system’s operation to ensure accurate readings.

Regularly monitoring and maintaining the AdBlue® level in your Peugeot 308 BlueHDi is vital for uninterrupted driving and to meet emission standards, ensuring your vehicle remains environmentally friendly and functional.

Malfunction Of The SCR Emissions Control System

What is SCR Emissions Control System Malfunction in Peugeot 308?

In Peugeot 308 vehicles equipped with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, an important component for controlling emissions, a system malfunction can be a serious concern. Here’s what you need to know about detecting and responding to a malfunction in this system.

How to Detect and Initial Response to SCR System Malfunction?

Malfunction Alert: If the SCR emissions control system experiences a malfunction, you will be notified by warning lamps on the dashboard, an audible signal, and a display message reading “Emissions control fault.” This alert is activated while driving as soon as the fault is detected and will reappear each time the ignition is switched on for subsequent journeys until the fault is resolved.

Temporary Faults: Should the fault be temporary, the alert may disappear in the next journey after the system conducts self-diagnostic checks and confirms no persistent issues.

Confirmed Malfunction During Permitted Driving Phase

Confirmed Fault: If after driving 31 miles (50 km), the fault indication remains displayed, it signifies a confirmed fault in the SCR system. In this case, the AdBlue warning lamp will start flashing, and a message will specify “Emissions control fault: starting prevented in X miles (kms).” This message will display every 30 seconds while driving and repeat each time the ignition is turned on.

Driving Limit: From the point of confirmation, you can continue to drive the vehicle for up to 685 miles (1,100 km) before the engine start prevention system is activated, which will then prohibit the engine from starting to prevent further damage or emissions violations.

Action Required After SCR Malfunction is Detected

Immediate Action: It is crucial to address any issues with the SCR emissions control system promptly to avoid the risk of being unable to start the engine. The message “Emissions control fault: Starting prevented” displayed at ignition indicates that the engine cannot be restarted until the issue is fixed.

Service Requirement: The vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible by a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop to diagnose and rectify the malfunction in the SCR system.

Recognizing and responding promptly to the SCR system malfunction alerts in your Peugeot 308 can prevent more significant issues and ensure compliance with emission standards, safeguarding both your vehicle’s performance and the environment.

Power Indicator (Hybrid, Rechargeable hybrid or Electric)

What is the Power Indicator in Hybrid and Electric Peugeot Models?

Peugeot’s hybrid, rechargeable hybrid, and electric vehicles are equipped with a sophisticated power indicator that provides real-time data on how power is being utilized in the vehicle. This feature is crucial for optimizing performance and energy efficiency. Here’s how the power indicator works across different versions:

Hybrid Versions

POWER Zone: This zone indicates a high power demand, utilizing both the petrol engine and the electric motor. The slider moves into this area during dynamic driving phases that require high performance.

ECO Zone: Represents optimal energy usage. The slider is positioned here when driving on electric power or when the petrol engine is used efficiently, achieved through careful driving.

CHARGE Zone: Occurs during deceleration phases such as when you lift your foot off the accelerator or apply the brakes, facilitating energy recovery to recharge the traction battery.

Rechargeable Hybrid Versions

Similar to the hybrid version, with the addition of:

A threshold indicator within the ECO zone signaling when the petrol engine will restart. This helps the driver moderate acceleration to maintain electric driving mode for as long as possible.

Electric Versions

CHARGE Zone: Shows when the traction battery is charging during braking or deceleration.

ECO Zone: Indicates moderate energy consumption, optimizing the vehicle’s driving range.

POWER Zone: Reflects energy consumption by the drivetrain during acceleration.

General Indicator Behavior

Neutral: With the ignition switched on, the vehicle’s electric drivetrain neither consumes nor generates energy initially; the cursor sweeps over the indicator and then returns to a “neutral” position between ECO and CHARGE.

With the ignition off, opening the driver’s door activates the indicator, moving the slider to this neutral position.

This power indicator is a critical tool for managing the vehicle’s energy usage, helping drivers of Peugeot’s hybrid and electric models make the most out of their vehicle’s capabilities while promoting eco-friendly driving habits.

Charge Level Indicator (Rechargeable hybrid or Electric)

What is the Charge Level Indicator in Peugeot 308 Rechargeable Hybrid and Electric Models?

The charge level indicator is a crucial feature in Peugeot’s rechargeable hybrid and electric vehicles, providing drivers with continuous updates on the state of the traction battery and the remaining range. Here’s a breakdown of how this indicator functions across these two types of vehicles:

Rechargeable Hybrid Versions

Display Information: When the vehicle is switched on, the charge level of the traction battery and the remaining range in electric driving mode are always visible on the instrument panel.

Factors Affecting Range: The displayed range can vary based on several factors, including the vehicle’s usage (type of driving and speed), the external temperature, and the use of comfort equipment such as heating and air conditioning.

Electric Versions

Battery Status and Range: Similar to the hybrid version, the electric version continuously displays the actual charge level of the traction battery and the remaining range once the vehicle is started.

Indicator Activation: With the ignition off, opening the driver’s door activates the indicator, ensuring the driver is always aware of the battery status before starting the vehicle.

First Level Alert – Reserve:

1. This alert indicates that the traction battery’s state of charge is low.
2. The remaining range is displayed on the instrument panel, advising the driver to charge the vehicle as soon as possible.

Second Level Alert – Critical:

1. When the battery charge reaches a critical level, urgent action is required.
2. The remaining range stops being calculated, and the drivetrain’s power begins to decrease gradually.
3. Additionally, systems such as heating and air conditioning are turned off to conserve the remaining energy.

What is The Importance of Monitoring the Charge Level Indicator of Peugeot 308?

Monitoring the charge level indicator helps ensure that you are never caught off guard by a low battery. It allows for better planning, especially in ensuring that the vehicle is charged in time to meet your mobility needs. For Peugeot rechargeable hybrid and electric vehicle owners, staying informed about the battery’s charge level is key to maintaining vehicle efficiency and reliability, as well as maximizing the vehicle’s range and performance.

Thermal Comfort Consumption Indicator (Electric)

What is the Thermal Comfort Consumption Indicator in Electric Peugeot 308?

The thermal comfort consumption indicator is a specialized gauge found in electric Peugeot models that shows how much of the traction battery’s electrical energy is being used by the vehicle’s thermal comfort devices, specifically the heating and air conditioning systems. This indicator helps drivers manage energy consumption and maintain optimal vehicle range.

How the Peugeot 308 Thermal Comfort Consumption Indicator Works?

Operational Modes: The heating and air conditioning can be used when the vehicle is not plugged in (with the READY lamp lit) or when the vehicle is plugged in and the ignition is switched on, which is referred to as “Lounge” mode.

ECO Mode: Engaging ECO mode limits the performance of the heating and air conditioning systems to conserve energy. When ECO mode is active, the indicator will show consumption levels within the “ECO” zone, indicating reduced energy use.

Max Heating and Cooling: For rapid heating or cooling of the passenger compartment, the maximum settings can be temporarily used. The consumption indicator will move into the “MAX” zone when heating is maximized, while it remains in the “ECO” zone even when air conditioning is at maximum, reflecting different energy usage patterns between these two systems.

Impact on Vehicle Range

Energy Consumption: Excessive use of the thermal comfort systems, especially at low speeds, can significantly reduce the vehicle’s range. This is due to the high energy demand of these systems.

Optimizing Settings: It is advisable to optimize the settings of the heating and air conditioning once a comfortable temperature has been reached. Adjusting these settings as needed at the start of each journey can help minimize unnecessary energy drain.

Initial Use Odor: After not using the heating system for an extended period, you might notice a slight odor during the first few minutes of use. This is normal and typically dissipates quickly.

Best Practices for Using Thermal Comfort Systems

To maintain an optimal balance between comfort and energy efficiency in your electric Peugeot, consider the following tips:

Precondition the Cabin: If possible, precondition the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in to reduce battery drain once the vehicle is in motion.

Regular Adjustments: Regularly adjust the settings based on current needs rather than leaving the systems on maximum settings throughout the journey.

Use of ECO Mode: Utilize ECO mode to extend the driving range, especially during longer trips where charging opportunities may be limited.

By effectively managing the settings of the thermal comfort devices, drivers can enhance their driving experience while preserving the electric range of their Peugeot.

Manual Test

What is The Manual Test Function in Peugeot 308?

Peugeot vehicles equipped with a sophisticated touchscreen interface offer a valuable feature known as the Manual Test function. This function is part of the vehicle’s onboard diagnostics and allows drivers to access crucial information about the vehicle’s status and maintenance needs. Understanding how to use this feature can enhance your driving experience by keeping you informed about your vehicle’s health.

How to Access the Manual Test Function in Peugeot 308?

To initiate the Manual Test, follow these steps:

1. Access the test by going to the Settings menu on the vehicle’s touch screen.
2. From there, choose ‘Vehicle’ and then tap on ‘Safety > Diagnostics’. This pathway leads to the specific diagnostics area where various vehicle statuses can be manually checked.

Information Displayed by the Manual Test

The Manual Test function displays a range of important information on the instrument panel, which includes:

Tyre Pressures: Check the current pressure in each tyre, helping ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels for safe and efficient driving.

Engine Oil Level: Depending on the engine type, this reading informs you if the oil level is adequate or if it needs topping up to ensure proper engine function and longevity.

Next Service Due: It shows when the next scheduled maintenance is due, which is crucial for keeping the vehicle in optimal condition.

Driving Range (AdBlue® and SCR System): For models equipped with BlueHDi Diesel engines, it provides details on the remaining driving range before the AdBlue® needs refilling or if there are issues with the SCR emissions control system.

Current Alerts: Any active alerts or issues with the vehicle are displayed here, giving you a heads-up about potential problems that may need immediate attention.

Additional Feature: Automatic Display at Ignition

Additionally, this information is not only accessible manually but is also automatically displayed every time the ignition is switched on. This feature ensures that you are immediately made aware of any critical notifications or maintenance needs each time you start the vehicle.

What is The Importance of Regularly Using the Manual Test in Peugeot 308?

Regularly using the Manual Test function can help you:

1. Stay on top of routine maintenance.
2. Address potential issues before they require costly repairs.
3. Ensure the vehicle’s safety features are functioning correctly.
4. Optimize vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

By familiarizing yourself with this function and incorporating it into your regular vehicle checks, you can greatly enhance the reliability and safety of your Peugeot.

Understanding the warning lights on your Peugeot 308 is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s performance and safety. For those who are interested in a more detailed look at the Peugeot 308, we recommend checking out our Peugeot 308 Review, where we cover everything you need to know about this popular model. Additionally, if you own a hybrid engine version of the Peugeot 308 and want to learn more about its engine performance, our Peugeot 308 Hybrid Engine and Performance Review provides in-depth insights. Stay informed and keep your Peugeot 308 in top condition!

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