Citroën C3 Aircross Dashboard Warning Lights: Complete Guide to Symbols, Meanings & Required Actions

Understanding the Citroën C3 Aircross Dashboard Warning System

The Citroën C3 Aircross relies on a comprehensive network of electronic sensors and control units to detect faults, monitor safety systems, and keep the driver informed. Each warning symbol indicates the status of a mechanical, electrical, or software-based component. We compiled the most exhaustive and actionable reference so that drivers immediately know what each symbol means and how to respond.

Service Warning Spanner Light (Amber)

What the Amber Service Spanner Light Means

When the amber spanner illuminates, the system has detected a non-specific fault that does not warrant a dedicated warning icon. It may appear alone or alongside a second warning symbol.

Temporary Illumination (Minor Fault)

• Indicates a minor, temporary system irregularity
• A descriptive message is displayed
• Vehicle can be driven normally but should be checked soon

Constant Illumination (Major Fault)

• Indicates a major system fault
• Requires immediate diagnostic inspection
• We recommend contacting a Citroën workshop without delay

STOP Warning Light (Red)

Meaning of the Red STOP Light

The STOP indicator signifies a critical system failure in one of the following areas:

• Engine
• Braking system
• Power steering
• Electrical system

Required Action

• Stop the vehicle immediately
• Do not continue driving
• Contact a Citroën service centre as soon as the vehicle is safely stationary

This is the most serious alert the vehicle displays.

Brake System Warning Light

Why the Brake Warning Light Turns On

The brake symbol illuminates for three key reasons:

Parking Brake Alert

• Parking brake is engaged or not fully released

Low Brake Fluid Level

• Fluid level has dropped significantly
• Stop the vehicle and top up using Citroën-approved brake fluid

Brake System Fault

• A hydraulic or mechanical brake fault is detected
• Do not drive the vehicle
• Request immediate workshop assistance

ABS Warning Light

ABS Fault Explanation

If the ABS indicator appears, the anti-lock braking system is disabled. Normal braking remains operational but wheel-lock prevention is unavailable.

Likely Causes

• Wheel speed sensor failure
• Damaged wiring
• Faulty ABS module

What to Do

• Drive cautiously at low to moderate speed
• Book a diagnostic inspection promptly

ABS + Brake Light (EBFD Fault)

EBFD System Failure

When both the ABS and brake icons illuminate simultaneously, the Electronic Brake Force Distribution system has malfunctioned.

Why It Matters

EBFD adjusts braking pressure per wheel to maximise stability.

Required Action

• Stop driving
• Contact a Citroën workshop immediately
• Braking behaviour may become unpredictable

Battery Charge Warning Light

Battery Light Meaning

This symbol indicates the alternator is not charging the battery.

Common Causes

• Weak or failing alternator
• Loose or damaged alternator belt
• Dirty or corroded battery terminals
• Ageing battery

Required Action

• Head directly to a workshop
• The engine may stall once battery charge is depleted

Low Oil Pressure Warning Light

Why the Oil Pressure Light Matters

Low oil pressure can cause severe internal engine damage due to insufficient lubrication.

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What to Do

• Stop immediately
• Check oil level and top up if needed
• Continue driving only if the light turns off
• If it remains illuminated, switch off the engine and seek professional assistance

Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light

Meaning of the Coolant Temperature Light

When illuminated in red, the engine is overheating.

Recommended Steps

• Pull over and switch off the engine
• Let the cooling system stabilise
• Check coolant level after several minutes
• Inspect for leaks
• If the light persists, do not continue driving

Red Engine Diagnostics + STOP Warning

What This Combination Means

A red check-engine symbol together with the STOP light indicates a major engine management system failure.

Required Action

• Stop the car as soon as safely possible
• Shut off the engine
• Contact a Citroën technician

Amber Engine Diagnostics + Service Spanner

Minor Engine Fault

This pairing indicates a less severe engine fault.

Recommended Response

• Vehicle can be driven cautiously
• Schedule a diagnostic inspection promptly

Standard Check Engine Light (MIL)

Fixed Illumination

Indicates a fault within the engine management or emissions system.

Flashing Illumination

Signifies an active engine misfire, which can severely damage the catalytic converter.

What Drivers Should Do

• Reduce speed immediately
• Avoid heavy acceleration or high loads
• Book diagnostic scanning soon

Collision Risk Alert Warning Light

What the Collision Alert Symbol Means

This warning flashes when a potential collision is detected with the vehicle ahead.
The system may apply brief automatic braking to reduce impact speed.

When It May Stay On

• Audible alerts accompany potential collision risk
• Also triggered if sensors are obstructed or dirty

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warning Light

Low Tyre Pressure Alert

This symbol activates when one or more tyres lose pressure. It is accompanied by:

• Audible chime
• Dashboard message

What to Do

• Check all tyres as soon as possible
• Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures

How to Reset Citroën C3 Aircross Tyre Pressure System

Reset Using the Button

1. Press and hold the TPMS reset button
2. A high-pitched beep confirms successful reinitialisation
3. A low-pitched beep indicates a failed attempt

Reset via Touchscreen

• Navigate to Driving / Vehicle
• Select Driving Functions
• Choose Reset under-inflation detection
• Confirm by selecting Yes

Flashing TPMS Light + Service Spanner

Meaning

Indicates a tyre pressure monitoring system fault.

Action

• Under-inflation detection is disabled
• Have the system inspected by a professional

DSC / ASR Stability Control Warning Light

What the Light Means

• Flashing: The system is actively correcting loss of traction
• Constant: Indicates a fault in stability control

Frequent Cause

• Faulty wheel speed sensor

Airbag Warning Light

Reason for Illumination

A permanently lit airbag symbol indicates a malfunction in:

• Front or side airbags
• Passenger airbag system
• Seatbelt pretensioners

Action

• Have the airbag system inspected promptly
• Safety components may not operate in a crash

DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Warning Light

Why It Activates

• Filter is becoming saturated
• Frequent short journeys prevent passive regeneration
• Additive level may be low

How to Regenerate the DPF

• Drive above 37 mph (60 km/h) continuously
• Continue until the lamp goes out

Low Additive Level

• Requires topping up at a Citroën dealership

Low Fuel Warning Light

What It Means

When the amber fuel light illuminates, the tank contains approximately 5 litres of fuel.

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Water in Diesel Filter Warning Light

Meaning

The diesel water filter is full and requires draining.

Required Action

• Visit a Citroën workshop
• Continued driving may damage fuel system components

Lane Departure Warning Light

When the Lane Departure Light Stays On

Indicates a system malfunction.

Frequent Causes

• Obstructed or dirty windscreen camera
• Snow, fog, or dirt covering the sensor

AdBlue Warning Light

Meaning

AdBlue levels are low.

When It Flashes

Less than 62 miles (100 km) of AdBlue range remains.
If the tank empties fully, the engine will not start.

SCR Emissions Control System Warning Light

(AdBlue + Service Spanner + Check Engine)

Reason

A malfunction in the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system.

What Happens

• Audible alert and message appear
• Light turns off when emissions return to normal

Service Spanner + Engine Service Light

Meaning

The vehicle has exceeded its service interval.

Action

• Schedule servicing immediately

Diesel Preheat (Glow Plug) Warning Light

Purpose

Indicates the glow plugs are warming.
In winter, illumination may last up to 30 seconds.

What to Do

• Wait until the light turns off before starting the engine

Start-Stop System Status Light

Why It Appears

Indicates the automatic engine start-stop system has cut off the engine.

Flashing

Means the system is temporarily unavailable or the engine is about to restart automatically.

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Final Thoughts

We curated the most complete and authoritative reference on Citroën C3 Aircross dashboard warning lights, ensuring drivers understand every symbol, severity level, and required action. This guide allows owners to respond correctly, protect their vehicle, and prevent costly repairs.

If you want to know other articles similar to Citroën C3 Aircross Dashboard Warning Lights: Complete Guide to Symbols, Meanings & Required Actions you can visit the category Service and Parts.