Battery / charging system light
Also called: battery light, charging light
The battery isn't being charged. The car may die soon.
What it means
Despite the picture, this light usually isn't about the battery itself. It means the charging system isn't keeping up, most often the alternator or the belt that drives it. The car is running on battery power alone and will stall when it runs out.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
It flickered once on a cold start and hasn't come back. Have the battery and alternator tested soon.
Schedule a repair
It comes and goes, or the lights dim at idle. Book a test. Alternators usually fail completely without much more warning.
Stop and get help
It stays on with dimming lights, warning messages, or a squealing belt. Head somewhere safe now and turn off accessories. You may have only minutes of driving left.
Common causes
- Failing alternator
- Broken or slipping serpentine belt
- Loose or corroded battery cables
- Failing battery
- Blown fuse or wiring fault
What to do right now
- Turn off the radio, A/C and other accessories
- Drive directly somewhere safe; don't shut it off unless you have to, because it may not restart
- If the belt squealed or the temperature also rises, stop: the same belt may drive the water pump
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the battery / charging system light mean?
The battery isn't being charged. The car may die soon. Despite the picture, this light usually isn't about the battery itself. It means the charging system isn't keeping up, most often the alternator or the belt that drives it. The car is running on battery power alone and will stall when it runs out.
Can I keep driving with the battery / charging system light on?
Green: It flickered once on a cold start and hasn't come back. Have the battery and alternator tested soon. Yellow: It comes and goes, or the lights dim at idle. Book a test. Alternators usually fail completely without much more warning. Red: It stays on with dimming lights, warning messages, or a squealing belt. Head somewhere safe now and turn off accessories. You may have only minutes of driving left.
What causes the battery / charging system light?
Common causes: failing alternator; broken or slipping serpentine belt; loose or corroded battery cables; failing battery.
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