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Welcome to our Peugeot 508 Warning Lights review, where we will guide you through the essential information every Peugeot 508 owner needs to know about the vehicle’s various warning lights and indicators. Whether you’re concerned about the service indicator, engine oil level, or the AdBlue® system, understanding these alerts is crucial for maintaining your car’s performance and safety. In this guide, we’ll break down what each warning light means, what actions you should take, and how to keep your Peugeot 508 running smoothly.
Peugeot 508 Warning Lights: Service Indicator
What Does the Service Indicator Mean on a Peugeot 508?
The service indicator on your Peugeot 508 provides essential maintenance information based on distance traveled (miles or kilometers) and time elapsed (months or days). The alert is activated based on whichever of these criteria is met first. The service information is displayed on the instrument panel, showing either the remaining distance before the next service or the distance traveled since the service was due, marked with a “-” sign. Additionally, an alert message will indicate the remaining distance and the period before the next service or how long it is overdue. This value is calculated according to the distance covered and time elapsed since the last service, and it may also be triggered close to a due date.
Understanding the Service Spanner Light on a Peugeot 508
Temporary Illumination: When the ignition is switched on, the service spanner light appears temporarily, indicating that between 620 and 1,860 miles (1,000 and 3,000 km) remain before the next service is due.
Fixed Illumination: When the ignition is switched on and the service spanner light remains fixed, it indicates that the next service is due in less than 620 miles (1,000 km). It is advisable to have your vehicle serviced very soon.
Flashing and Fixed Illumination: If the service spanner light flashes and then remains fixed when the ignition is switched on (particularly with BlueHDi Diesel engines, associated with the Service warning lamp), it signifies that the servicing interval has been exceeded. In this case, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
How to Reset the Service Indicator on a Peugeot 508?
After servicing your vehicle, the service indicator must be reset. If you have serviced your vehicle yourself, follow these steps:
- Switch off the ignition.
- Press and hold the button located at the end of the lighting control stalk.
- Without pressing the brake pedal, press the START/STOP button once; a temporary display window will appear and a countdown will begin.
- When the display indicates “=0,” release the lighting control stalk button; the spanner symbol will disappear.
If you disconnect the battery following this operation, lock the vehicle and wait at least 5 minutes for the reset to be registered.
Accessing Servicing Information on a Peugeot 508
You can access servicing information using the Settings > Vehicle application on the touch screen. Follow these steps:
- Select Safety > Diagnostics.
This will provide a reminder of the servicing information, ensuring you stay informed about your vehicle’s maintenance needs.
Engine Oil Level Indicator
What Does the Engine Oil Level Indicator Mean on a Peugeot 508?
The engine oil level indicator on your Peugeot 508, available on versions equipped with an electric gauge, displays the engine oil level status on the instrument panel for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on. This information appears after the servicing details in the form of messages. It is important to note that the oil level reading will be accurate only if the vehicle is on level ground and the engine has been off for more than 30 minutes.
What Should I Do If the Oil Level is Low in My Peugeot 508?
If the engine oil level is low in your Peugeot 508, a message will prompt you to top up the oil, accompanied by the lighting of the Service warning lamp and an audible signal. To prevent damage to the engine, it is crucial to top up the oil level if a check using the dipstick confirms a low oil level. For detailed instructions on how to check oil levels, refer to the corresponding section in your Peugeot 508’s manual.
What Does an Oil Gauge Malfunction Indicate in My Peugeot 508?
An oil gauge malfunction in your Peugeot 508 is indicated by the message “Oil level measurement invalid” on the instrument panel. In this case, you should consult a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop. If the electric gauge system is faulty, the engine oil level will no longer be monitored automatically. Therefore, you must manually check the engine oil level using the dipstick located in the engine compartment. For more information on checking oil levels, refer to the relevant section in your Peugeot 508’s manual.
Coolant Temperature Indicator
What Does the Peugeot 508 Coolant Temperature Indicator Mean?
The coolant temperature indicator provides real-time feedback on the engine’s temperature. It features two main zones:
Zone A: This is the normal operating range. When the indicator is in this zone, the engine temperature is within the correct limits, and no action is needed.
Zone B: If the indicator moves into this zone, it signifies that the engine temperature is too high. This is a critical warning that requires immediate attention.
What Happens When the Peugeot 508 Temperature is Too High?
When the coolant temperature exceeds safe levels, the following occurs:
Warning Lamps Illuminate: The associated coolant warning lamp and the STOP warning lamp light up in red on the instrument panel.
Display Message: A message appears on the display, indicating that the engine is overheating.
Audible Signal: An audible signal accompanies the warning lamps and display message, alerting you to the urgent situation.
Immediate Steps to Take When the Peugeot 508 Coolant Temperature is Too High
If you notice the coolant temperature indicator moving into Zone B, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent engine damage. Here’s what you should do:
- Reduce your speed gradually and look for a safe place to pull over. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to prevent additional stress on the engine.
- Once you find a safe location, pull over and stop the vehicle. Keep the engine running for a minute or two before shutting it off to allow the coolant to circulate and dissipate some of the heat.
- Turn off the engine and let it cool down. This cooling period can take several minutes to over an hour, depending on the severity of the overheating.
How to Check the Peugeot 508 Coolant Level
Once the engine has cooled sufficiently, it’s important to check the coolant level to ensure it is adequate:
- Open the bonnet carefully, as the engine compartment may still be hot. Use caution to avoid burns from hot engine components.
- Find the coolant reservoir, which is usually a translucent plastic tank with a cap labeled “Coolant” or “Engine Coolant.”
- Inspect the coolant level against the markings on the side of the reservoir. The level should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” markers. If it’s low, you’ll need to top it up.
- If the coolant level is below the “MIN” mark, add the appropriate type of coolant to bring it up to the “MAX” level. Be sure to use the coolant specified in your vehicle’s manual.
- Once the coolant level is correct, securely replace the reservoir cap.
Why Is It Important to Monitor Coolant Levels Regularly?
Regular monitoring of your vehicle’s coolant levels is essential for preventing overheating and ensuring that your engine runs efficiently. A lack of coolant can lead to severe engine damage, which can be costly to repair. By keeping an eye on the coolant level and the coolant temperature indicator, you can avoid potential issues and prolong the life of your engine.
AdBlue® Range Indicators (BlueHDi)
What Do the AdBlue® Range Indicators Mean on a Peugeot 508?
Peugeot 508 models with Diesel BlueHDi engines use AdBlue® fluid for the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) emissions control system and the Diesel particle filter (DPF). These systems are essential for the treatment of exhaust gases and cannot function without AdBlue® fluid. When the AdBlue® level falls below the reserve (between 1,500 and 0 miles or 2,400 and 0 km), a warning lamp lights up when the ignition is switched on, and an estimate of the distance you can travel before engine starting is prevented is displayed on the instrument panel.
What Should I Do If the AdBlue® Warning Light Comes On in My Peugeot 508?
The AdBlue® system is designed to alert you when the fluid level is low. The following steps outline the actions required based on the remaining range:
- Between 1,500 miles and 500 miles (2,400 km and 800 km): Top up the AdBlue® as soon as possible. A warning lamp will light up, accompanied by a message reminding you to top up the fluid.
- Between 500 miles and 62 miles (800 km and 100 km): Top up the AdBlue® immediately to avoid the risk of engine starting prevention.
- Between 62 miles and 0 miles (100 km and 0 km): A top-up is vital as the engine will be prevented from starting once the AdBlue® is depleted. Add at least 10 liters of AdBlue® to the tank to restart the engine.
Note: It may take a few minutes of driving before the system detects the top-up and updates the range.
What Does a Malfunction of the SCR Emissions Control System Indicate in My Peugeot 508?
If there is a malfunction in the SCR emissions control system, you will be alerted by warning lamps, an audible signal, and the display of an “Emissions control fault” message. The alert is triggered while driving when the fault is detected for the first time, and thereafter when switching on the ignition for subsequent journeys, as long as the fault persists. If the fault is temporary, the alert will disappear during the next journey after self-diagnostic checks.
What Should I Do If the SCR System Malfunctions in My Peugeot 508?
If the SCR system fault indication remains after 31 miles (50 km) of driving, it confirms a fault. The AdBlue warning lamp will flash, and a message will display, indicating the remaining driving range before engine starting is prevented:
Up to 685 miles (1,100 km): You can continue driving, but have the system checked by a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop.
Starting Prevented: If the message “Emissions control fault: Starting prevented” is displayed every time the ignition is switched on, contact a PEUGEOT dealer or a qualified workshop to restart the engine.
Power Indicator
What Does the Power Indicator in a Peugeot 508 Hybrid Mean?
The power indicator in your Peugeot 508 Hybrid is a crucial tool that provides real-time feedback on how much power your vehicle is using and whether it is operating efficiently. Understanding the different zones on this indicator can help you optimize your driving style to achieve better fuel economy and make the most of your hybrid’s capabilities. The power indicator is divided into three distinct zones: POWER, ECO, and CHARGE.
POWER Zone:
The POWER zone on the indicator shows when your Peugeot 508 Hybrid is experiencing a high power demand. In this zone, the vehicle taps into both the petrol engine and the electric motor(s) to deliver the required performance. This is typically seen during periods of rapid acceleration, climbing steep hills, or when you need to achieve higher speeds quickly. The indicator slider will move into this zone when you engage in dynamic driving behaviors that require more energy.
While it’s normal for the indicator to enter this zone during certain driving conditions, consistently operating in the POWER zone may reduce the overall efficiency of your vehicle, leading to higher fuel consumption. It’s an indication that the vehicle is using more energy than it might in other driving modes.
ECO Zone:
The ECO zone represents the optimal balance of energy use in your Peugeot 508 Hybrid. When the indicator slider stays within this zone, it means that your vehicle is either operating efficiently on electric power or is making the best use of the petrol engine. The ECO zone is where you want to be most of the time to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Driving in this zone not only conserves fuel but also prolongs the life of the vehicle’s components by reducing wear and tear.
Additionally, in hybrid mode, a symbol may appear indicating the threshold at which the petrol engine will engage. By paying attention to this symbol, you can adjust your driving style—such as reducing speed or pressure on the accelerator—to remain in electric mode longer, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions.
CHARGE Zone:
The CHARGE zone is where your Peugeot 508 Hybrid recovers energy and recharges the traction battery. This typically occurs during deceleration, when you lift your foot off the accelerator, or when braking. In this zone, the kinetic energy that would otherwise be lost as heat during braking is instead converted back into electrical energy and stored in the battery. This process, known as regenerative braking, helps extend the electric range of your hybrid and improves overall efficiency. The more you can make use of this CHARGE zone—by driving smoothly and anticipating stops—the more energy you can recover, which reduces the need to draw power from the petrol engine.
What Should I Do If My Peugeot 508 Hybrid Shows a High Power Demand?
If you notice that the power indicator frequently moves into the POWER zone while driving your Peugeot 508 Hybrid, it’s important to understand the context. High power demand is normal during certain driving situations, such as when you are accelerating onto a highway, overtaking another vehicle, or climbing a steep incline. During these times, the vehicle will naturally use more energy, and both the petrol engine and the electric motor(s) will work together to deliver the required power.
However, if your vehicle remains in the POWER zone for extended periods under normal driving conditions—such as when driving at a steady speed on flat terrain—it could indicate that the vehicle is working harder than necessary. This might be due to a number of factors, such as:
Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, frequent hard accelerations, and high-speed driving can keep the vehicle in the POWER zone more often, leading to decreased efficiency.
Terrain: Constantly driving on hilly or mountainous roads may naturally cause the vehicle to stay in the POWER zone as it requires more energy to climb inclines.
Vehicle Load: Carrying heavy loads or towing can increase power demands, pushing the indicator into the POWER zone.
Potential Mechanical Issues: If none of the above factors apply, and the vehicle consistently operates in the POWER zone, it might indicate an underlying issue with the hybrid system, such as problems with the battery, engine, or electric motor(s).
To address this, consider adopting a smoother driving style that emphasizes gradual accelerations and decelerations. Keep an eye on the indicator, and try to maintain your driving within the ECO zone as much as possible. If you find that the vehicle remains in the POWER zone despite your best efforts to drive efficiently, it may be wise to have the vehicle checked by a PEUGEOT Authorized Dealer or Service Center. They can run diagnostics to ensure that everything is functioning correctly and that there are no issues with the hybrid system or other components.
Charge Level Indicator (Rechargeable hybrid)
What Does the Charge Level Indicator Mean on a Peugeot 508 Rechargeable Hybrid?
The charge level indicator on your Peugeot 508 rechargeable hybrid displays the charge level of the traction battery and the remaining range in electric driving mode. This information is permanently displayed when the vehicle is switched on.
Charge Level and Range in Electric Mode
The range displayed on the instrument panel depends on several factors:
Type of Driving and Speed: Aggressive driving or high-speed driving can reduce the electric range.
Outside Temperature: Extreme temperatures can affect the battery’s efficiency and, consequently, the range.
Activated Comfort Equipment: Using heating, air conditioning, or other electrical comfort equipment can also impact the available range.
What Are The Tips for Maximizing Electric Range on Peugeot 508?
To maximize the electric driving range of your Peugeot 508 rechargeable hybrid:
- Drive Smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and high speeds.
- Monitor Comfort Equipment: Use heating and air conditioning judiciously.
- Plan for Temperature Extremes: Be aware that very hot or cold weather can reduce the range.
By understanding these factors and adjusting your driving habits, you can make the most of your vehicle’s electric driving capabilities.
Peugeot 508 Warning Lights: Manual Test
What Does the Manual Test Function Mean on a Peugeot 508?
The manual test function on your Peugeot 508 allows you to check various indicators and display the alerts log. This feature is particularly useful for monitoring the vehicle’s condition and ensuring that all systems are functioning correctly. By performing a manual test, you can proactively identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
How to Perform a Manual Test on a Peugeot 508
To initiate the manual test on your Peugeot 508, follow these steps:
Navigate to Settings:
Access the Settings menu on the touch screen.
Select Vehicle Application:
Choose the Vehicle application from the menu.
Select Safety > Diagnostics:
This option will launch the manual test function, allowing you to check the various indicators.
What Information is Displayed During a Manual Test on a Peugeot 508?
When you perform a manual test on your Peugeot 508, the following information will be displayed on the instrument panel:
Tyre Pressures: The current pressure levels for each tyre, helping you ensure that all tyres are properly inflated.
Engine Oil Level: The status of the engine oil level, depending on the engine type. This allows you to verify that your engine has the proper amount of oil.
Next Service Due: Information about when your next scheduled service is due, helping you stay on top of regular maintenance.
Driving Range (AdBlue® and SCR System): The remaining driving range associated with the AdBlue® and the SCR system, particularly for BlueHDi Diesel engines. This ensures that your vehicle is compliant with emissions regulations.
Current Alerts: Any current alerts or warning messages that may require your attention.
This information is also displayed automatically each time the ignition is switched on, providing continuous updates on your Peugeot 508’s status. By regularly checking these indicators through the manual test function, you can maintain optimal performance and address any issues promptly, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition.
In conclusion, understanding the Peugeot 508 warning lights is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health and ensuring your safety on the road. Regularly monitoring these indicators and responding appropriately can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
For more detailed information about the Peugeot 508, including features, specifications, and performance, check out our comprehensive Peugeot 508 Review. Additionally, if you own a plug-in hybrid version of the Peugeot 508 and want to delve deeper into the specifics of its engine performance, don’t miss our Peugeot 508 Plug-In Hybrid Engine and Performance Review. Stay informed and drive safely!
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