The BMW 3 Series needs no introduction, and the latest edition of the 3 Series continues that tread quite well. We have quite a few reviews on the BMW 3 Series, and you check them out in all their glory here.
Related: Which BMW 3 Series is better: diesel or petrol?
The current generation 3 Series claims to be the most technologically advanced 3 Series of all time. Although this 3 Series is packed to the hilt with tech, it maintains that driver-orientated approach. Let's also remember the good looks to go with it all too.
We've compiled a list of general warning lights you'll find. The exact lights and meanings vary slightly from model to model, year to year, and specification. To get the most accurate information, consult your owner's manual for solutions and contact a professional if you need clarification on any warning light or if the vehicle calls for a professional to assess it.
Warning Lights
Red Lights
- Safety Belt Reminder. This light flashes or stays illuminated when the driver or passenger side seat belt is not buckled in. If you leave objects on the passenger seat, this light can also come on. There is also a reminder for the rear seats; this display may vary from variant to variant.
- Airbag System. When this light illuminates, the airbag system or seat belt tensioner may not work.
- Parking Brake. The parking brake is currently engaged.
- Brake System. The braking system is impaired, and you need to drive moderately. The vehicle needs to be immediately checked by a professional.
- Approach Control Warning with Light Braking Function. Part of the Forward Collision Warning system. This is a pre-warning light; you need to brake and increase distance. This light flashes and is accompanied by acoustic signal sounds. You may need to brake and make evasive manoeuvres if necessary.
- Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go. This light flashes and is accompanied by acoustic sounds for braking and evading.
- Intersection Collision Warning. This light is illuminated and accompanied by acoustic sounds when there's a risk of collision with a crossing vehicle. It acts as a pre-warning, and intervention is required, like braking yourself.
- Steering Assistant. This light flashes and is accompanied by acoustic sounds; the system will switch off.
- Drive Power. This light comes on when the drivetrain has overheated, and power will reduce.
- Pedestrian Warning with City Collision Mitigation. This light flashes with acoustic sounds accompanying when there's an imminent collision with a pedestrian or cyclist. An evasive manoeuvre is needed.
Yellow Lights
- Steering Assistant. The warning lights up, and an acoustic signal may sound, meaning a system interruption is imminent. The light flashes when a lane marking has been driven over.
- Antilock Braking System (ABS). The system may not activate, and a longer braking distance must be considered. A professional needs to examine the car.
- Tyre Pressure Monitor. When this light illuminates, the Tyre Pressure Monitor detects low or flat tyre pressure. You'll have to follow the information in the Check Control message. If there is no pressure loss or flat tyre, either a wheel without the monitors has been installed or there's a malfunction in the system.
- Dynamic Stability Control or Dynamic Traction Control. Either Dynamic Stability Control or Dynamic Traction Control is activated.
- Steering System. When this light illuminates, the steering system may not work. A professional must assess the vehicle.
- Flat Tyre Monitor. This light illuminates when there's a loss in tyre pressure in a tyre. You must reduce your speed, stop cautiously and avoid sudden manoeuvres.
- Emissions. Lights up when emissions are deteriorating. This can happen when there's excessive misfiring. The vehicle will need to be assessed by a professional.
