What it means
The reminder indicates that a seat belt may be unfastened, or that the vehicle has detected an unbelted occupant. Red commonly means a belt needs fastening; the colour, chime, and passenger or rear-seat detection vary by manufacturer.
What the symbol looks like: A seated person wearing a diagonal seat belt.
Why it comes on
- The driver’s seat belt is not fastened.
- A passenger’s seat belt is not fastened.
- A bag or other object on a seat triggered the occupancy sensor.
- A seat-belt buckle switch or occupancy sensor has a fault.
What to do
- Fasten the driver’s seat belt securely.
- Ask all passengers to fasten their belts.
- Move heavy objects from seats or secure them elsewhere.
- If the warning remains with everyone belted, have the belt reminder system checked.
Can I keep driving?
Do not drive until everyone is correctly belted. If the warning remains despite properly fastened belts, drive only if necessary and arrange a check; never treat the reminder as proof that a belt is secure.
Symbols and colours differ between makes and models. Your owner’s manual shows the exact lights of your car.