Battery and charging light
The charging system is not keeping the battery charged. The car is running on battery power only and will stop when the battery is flat.
Check soon Color: Red
Is it safe to drive?
Usually yes, carefully and for a short distance, but have it checked soon.
Also called: Charging system warning, alternator light.
What to do
- Switch off what you do not need: A/C, heated seats, radio.
- Drive straight to a workshop or home. Do not switch the engine off on the way if you are not sure it will start again.
- Common causes are a failing alternator, a broken or loose drive belt, or bad battery terminals.
- If the steering gets heavy or the engine temperature rises too, stop: the same belt may drive the water pump or power steering.
Symbols and their meaning can differ a little by make and model. Your owner's manual is the final word for your car.
Trouble codes often stored with this light
A scanner can read these codes. Each one points to a different cause:
Questions about the battery and charging light
What does the battery and charging light mean?
The charging system is not keeping the battery charged. The car is running on battery power only and will stop when the battery is flat.
Is it safe to drive with the battery and charging light on?
Usually yes, carefully and for a short distance, but have it checked soon.
Does the battery and charging light look the same in every car?
Most makers use a similar symbol, but the drawing and the color can differ a little. Your owner's manual shows the exact symbol for your car.