DASHBOARD WARNING
LIGHT ON?
Don't ignore it, but don't panic either. Most warning lights fall into three categories — and only some of them mean you need a tow. Here's how to figure out what yours means and whether you can keep driving.
THE 3 LEVELS OF URGENCY
Every dashboard warning light has a color — and that color tells you how urgently you need to act.
RED LIGHTS
STOP DRIVING NOW
Pull over safely as soon as possible. Do not keep driving. Continuing to drive with a red warning light can cause catastrophic engine or brake failure.
Engine is overheating — severe damage in minutes
Engine can seize within minutes without oil pressure
Alternator failure — car will die without warning
Potential total brake failure — do not drive
AMBER / YELLOW LIGHTS
DRIVE WITH CAUTION
Something needs attention, but it's not an emergency. You can usually drive carefully to a shop — but don't ignore it for weeks.
Needs diagnosis — schedule a shop visit
Anti-lock brakes disabled, regular brakes still work
System is active or has been disabled
One or more tires are low — add air
GREEN / BLUE LIGHTS
INFORMATIONAL ONLY
These aren't warnings — they're just telling you a system is active. No action needed.
Cruise control is engaged
High beam headlights are on
Vehicle is in fuel-saving mode
Indicator is active — normal operation
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT SPECIFICALLY
The check engine light is the most common — and the most confusing. What it means depends entirely on whether it's steady or flashing.
STEADY CHECK ENGINE
Something needs attention, but it's not an emergency. You can drive to a shop — just don't ignore it for months.
- Loose gas cap (check this first!)
- Failing O2 sensor
- Catalytic converter wear
- Worn spark plugs or ignition coils
- Mass airflow sensor
FLASHING CHECK ENGINE
SERIOUS. This means an active engine misfire. Pull over safely and do not keep driving.
Driving with a flashing check engine light can destroy your catalytic converter — a $1,000–$2,500 repair. Call for a tow instead.
CALL FOR A TOW: (306) 291-8567Before you panic: tighten your gas cap until it clicks, then drive for about 10 minutes. If the check engine light turns off, that was it. A loose gas cap is the #1 cause of check engine lights.
WARNING LIGHTS THAT MEAN
YOU NEED A TOW
If you see any of these, stop driving and call for help. The cost of a tow is always less than the cost of the damage you'll cause by continuing to drive. Check our towing rates guide for pricing, or see flatbed vs. wheel-lift towing to understand how your vehicle would be transported.
Your engine isn't getting oil. It can seize within minutes, turning a $200 problem into a $5,000+ engine replacement. Pull over immediately and shut off the engine.
Engine is overheating. Continuing to drive can warp the head gasket or crack the engine block. Pull over, let it cool, and call for a tow. See our overheating guide for step-by-step instructions.
Active engine misfire. Unburned fuel is entering the catalytic converter and can destroy it ($1,000-$2,500). Do not keep driving.
If both the brake system warning and ABS light are on, you may have a serious hydraulic brake failure. Do not drive — even to a shop.
Without power steering, the wheel becomes extremely heavy — especially at low speeds. This is dangerous in traffic and parking situations. Get a tow.
Your transmission is overheating. Continuing to drive can cause permanent transmission damage ($3,000-$6,000 to rebuild). Pull over and call for a tow.
WARNING LIGHTS THAT DON'T
MEAN YOU NEED A TOW
These lights need attention, but they don't mean you're stranded. You can usually handle them yourself or drive to a shop.
Usually just means one or more tires are low on air. Drive to a gas station and inflate to the PSI listed on the sticker inside your driver's door. Common in Saskatchewan winters when temperature drops cause pressure to fall.
Something needs a diagnosis, but it's not urgent. Schedule a shop visit within a week or two. Try tightening your gas cap first.
Your anti-lock braking system is disabled, but your regular brakes still work normally. Drive carefully and avoid hard braking. Get it checked, but you don't need a tow.
Either the system is actively working (flashing while driving on ice is normal) or it's been disabled. Not dangerous — your vehicle just won't have electronic traction assistance.
Just needs a refill. Pick up washer fluid at any gas station. In Saskatchewan winters, make sure you're using -40°C rated fluid.
Not sure? If you can't identify the warning light or you're not comfortable driving, call us at (306) 291-8567. We'll help you figure out whether you need a tow or can drive safely. If your car won't start at all, check our dedicated guide.
WARNING LIGHTS FAQ
NOT SURE IF YOU CAN DRIVE?
Call or text us — we'll help you figure out if you need a tow or if you can make it to a shop. Available 24/7 across Saskatchewan.