Hundreds of thousands of cars will find new owners over the next two months but the joy of a replacement vehicle can be cut short when an unfamiliar warning light appears.
However, help is now just a fingertip away with the AA app, which can help drivers identify the symbols and take appropriate action.
The AA alone averages around 17,000 warning light-related call-outs a month – including more than 4,600 red lights – which peaks when people change vehicle in the weeks following the new car registrations in March and September and the resulting stimulus to the used-car market.
An AA-Populus survey of 21,201 members found 53%would stop to consult their handbook if a red warning light came on, while a quarter (26%) would call their breakdown provider for assistance.
Men are more likely (9% men vs 6% women) to turn the ignition off and on in the hope that the light clears, while women are more likely to phone a friend or family member for advice (2% men vs 13% women).
Worryingly, four per cent would risk their safety or further damage by continuing to drive before getting it checked at a garage; and 96 respondents (<1%) said they would ignore it. A red warning lights means you should stop as soon as possible in a safe place.
More than 1 in 8 (13%) respondents either don’t carry the handbook in the car or didn’t get one when they bought it, so the AA has compiled details on around 1,000 warning lights in its free AA app to help drivers in difficulty.
Max Holdstock, AA patrol of the year, said, “We often find that used cars don’t have a handbook and even if there is one many drivers never look at it. The AA app is a quicker and smarter way for drivers to check what their warning lights mean.
“Although most warning light symbols are standardised, many are not, and with some car dashboards resembling the Starship Enterprise, it’s no wonder that some drivers are left bewildered.
“If it’s a new vehicle, it’s often that they’re not familiar with a warning light; and, if it’s a second-hand car, sometimes because the handbook is missing.
“As a rule, red warning lights indicate a potentially serious problem, so stop the car as soon as it’s safe; and amber or yellow mean it’s ok to proceed but some action – servicing or repair – is required, so you should contact a garage as soon as possible.
“The free AA app or your car’s handbook can help decipher the warning light hieroglyphs, potentially preventing the cost and headache of a breakdown but, if you’re in any doubt, call for assistance.”
The AA app
The AA app also allows you to both report and track a breakdown, so you know when the patrol will arrive.
It includes the popular AA route planner and traffic updates, as well as vehicle reminders for MOT, tax, insurance and service dates. Other enhanced features for all AA members include a fuel price checker and parking-space finder.
The free AA app is available for iPhone on the ‘App Store’ and for Android smartphones on ‘Google play’. Search for “TheAA”or visit theAA.com/apps for more information.
