Mechanic warns drivers light on dashboard means they 'must' pull over

Drivers have been warned they "must" pull over if they see certain warning lights before Christmas. Motorists on the road in December have been warned by Nationwide Vehicle Contracts mechanics over a number of warning lights that may appear on the dashboard.

They advised: "The oil pressure light appears as a red tank with a drop coming out of its spout on your dashboard. If you see this light, pull over in a suitable spot and wait whilst your engine cools.

"Once the engine is cool, open the bonnet and check your oil levels. If needed, top up your oil to the fill line and ensure there are no leaks. If the light does not go off, this is when you should contact a mechanic, and whilst you wait, should avoid any long journeys."

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They continued: "This light will show if your car is unable to regulate its temperature, if this occurs you will notice a red or orange thermometer symbol above the waves. Although this warning light may be indicating coolant levels are low, it could also mean something more sinister, so be sure to pull over at a safe spot and wait for your engine to cool down."

They went on and added: "If a light on your dashboard appears which is an amber exclamation mark inside an upside-down horseshoe shape, then this means you may have low tyre pressure. Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, so it is important to regularly inflate them at a nearby service or petrol station.

"If you do inflate them and they still appear to lose pressure, this could mean your tyre has a puncture or a tear, if this is the case, the tyre then needs to be replaced either temporarily by the spare or by a new one at a garage."