Glow plug light (diesel)
A coil or squiggle symbol, amber, on a diesel.
GENERALLY OK TO PROCEED WITH CAUTION
Book it in when you can · Amber means get it checked
Normal vs fault
On a diesel, seeing the coil symbol for a few seconds when you switch on is normal — wait for it to go out, then start. The concern is when it flashes or stays on after the engine is running.
Can I drive?
Short-term usually yes, but a flashing glow-plug light often means the engine management has logged a fault (sometimes glow plugs, sometimes something else) and may reduce power. Get it scanned.
Common causes
A failing glow plug or relay, or — because carmakers reuse this light — another engine-management fault entirely. The codes tell the story.
Warning-light symbols and meanings vary by vehicle — always check your owner’s manual. This is general guidance based on what the light indicates, not a physical inspection, and a light on its own never names a failed part.
Related Driver Help
Want to know what is causing the warning?
Auto Star can read the codes, inspect the vehicle, and find the underlying cause before recommending any repairs — you see what we find and approve the work first.