What it means
It usually indicates that the diesel particulate filter is becoming full of soot and may need regeneration. Amber commonly means act soon, but the colour, warning stages, and permitted regeneration procedure vary by manufacturer.
What the symbol looks like: A box-shaped exhaust filter with dots or a wavy line representing trapped soot; the exact graphic varies by manufacturer.
Why it comes on
- Repeated short trips or low-speed driving preventing regeneration
- Interrupted or incomplete regeneration
- A heavily soot-loaded or damaged DPF
- Faulty exhaust-pressure or temperature sensor
- An engine fault causing excess soot
What to do
- Check the owner's manual for the DPF warning and the vehicle's approved response.
- If the manual permits, follow its instructions for a regeneration drive only when traffic and road conditions are safe.
- Do not attempt a regeneration if another serious warning is on or the engine is overheating.
- If the light persists, flashes, or is joined by a warning message, arrange service promptly.
Can I keep driving?
If the light is steady and the vehicle behaves normally, follow the manual's guidance and avoid repeatedly interrupting any permitted regeneration. Do not ignore a flashing light, loss of power, or additional serious warnings.
Symbols and colours differ between makes and models. Your owner’s manual shows the exact lights of your car.