2021-2023 Citroen C4 Warning Lights and Indicator User Guide
The 2021-2023 Citroen C4’s warning lights and indicators are covered in this Guide. Understanding these signs helps you manage any difficulties and keep the car safe for driving.
2023 CITROËN C4 Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review
Video: 2021-2023 Citroen C4 Warning Lights
Warning and Indicator Lamps
Displayed as symbols, the warning and indicator lamps inform the driver of the occurrence of a malfunction (warning lamps) or of the operating status of a system (operation or deactivation indicator lamps). Certain lamps light up in two ways (fixed or flashing) and/or in several colours.
Associated Warnings
The illumination of a lamp may be accompanied by an audible signal and/or a message displayed in a screen.
Relating the type of alert to the operating status of the vehicle allows you to determine whether the situation is normal or whether a fault has occurred: refer to the description of each lamp for further information.
When the Ignition is Switched On
Certain red or orange warning lamps come on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on. These warning lamps should go off as soon as the engine is started.
For more information on a system or a function, refer to the corresponding section.
Persistent Warning Lamp
If a red or orange warning lamp comes on, there may be fault which needs further investigation.
If a lamp Remains lit
The references (1), (2) and (3) in the warning and indicator lamp description indicate whether you should contact a qualified professional in addition to the immediate recommended actions.
- You must stop the vehicle.
Stop as soon as it is safe to do so and switch off the ignition. - Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
- Visit a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
List of Warning and Indicator Lamps
Red warning/indicator Lamps
STOP
Fixed, associated with another warning lamp, accompanied by the display of a message and an audible signal.
A serious fault with the engine, braking system, power steering or automatic gearbox or a major electrical fault has been detected.
Carry out (1) and then (2).
Engine self-diagnostic System (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed.
A major engine fault has been detected.
Carry out (1) and then (2).
Maximum Engine Coolant Temperature
Fixed.
The temperature of the cooling system is too high.
Carry out (1), then wait until the engine has cooled down before topping up the level, if necessary. If the problem persists, carry out (2).
Engine oil pressure (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed.
There is a fault with the engine lubrication system.
Carry out (1) and then (2).
System Malfunction (Electric)
Fixed.
A fault involving the electric motor or traction battery has been detected.
Carry out (1) and then (2).
Cable Connected (Electric)
Fixed when the ignition is switched on. The charging cable is connected to the vehicle’s connector.
Fixed when the ignition is switched on, accompanied by a message.
It is not possible to start the vehicle while the charging cable is connected to the vehicle’s connector.
Disconnect the charging cable and close the flap.
12V battery Charge
Fixed.
The battery charging circuit is faulty (e.g. dirty terminals, loose or severed alternator belt).
Carry out (1).
If the electric parking brake stops working, immobilize the vehicle:
- With the manual gearbox, engage a gear.
- With the automatic gearbox or drive selector, fit the chock against one of the wheels.
Clean and tighten the terminals. If the warning lamp does not go off when the engine is started, carry out (2).
Braking
Fixed.
The brake fluid level in the braking circuit has dropped significantly.
Carry out (1), then top up with fluid that complies with the manufacturer’s recommendations. If the problem persists, carry out (2).
Fixed.
The electronic brake force
distribution (EBFD) system is faulty.
Carry out (1) and then (2).
Manual Parking brake (Depending on Version)
Fixed.
The parking brake is applied or not properly released.
Fixed.
The parking brake is applied or not properly released.
Electric parking Brake
Fixed.
The electric parking brake is applied.
Flashing.
Application/release is faulty.
Carry out (1): park on flat ground (on a level surface).
With a manual gearbox, engage a gear.
With an automatic gearbox or drive selector, select mode P.
Switch off the ignition and carry out (2).
Door(s) open
Fixed, associated with a message
identifying the access.
An audible signal supplements the alert if the speed is higher than 6 mph (10 km/h).
A door or the boot is not properly closed.
Seat belts not Fastened/Unfastened
Fixed or flashing, accompanied by an increasing audible signal.
A seat belt has not been fastened or has been unfastened.
Orange warning/indicator lamps Service
Temporarily on, accompanied by the
display of a message.
One or more minor faults, for which there is/are no specific warning lamp(s), have been detected.
Instruments
Identify the cause of the fault using the message displayed on the instrument panel.
You may be able to deal with some faults yourself, such as changing the battery in the remote control.
For other faults, such as with the tyre under-inflation detection system, carry out (3).
Fixed, accompanied by the display of a message.
One or more major faults, for which there is/are no specific warning lamp(s), have been detected. Identify the cause of the fault using the message displayed on the instrument panel, then carry out (3).
Fixed, accompanied by the message
“Parking brake fault”.
Automatic release of the electric parking brake is unavailable.
Carry out (2).
Service warning lamp fixed and service spanner flashing then fixed.
The servicing interval has been exceeded. The vehicle must be serviced as soon as possible.
Only with BlueHDi Diesel engines.
Braking
Fixed.
A minor fault with the braking system has been detected.
Drive carefully.
Carry out (3).
Malfunction (with electric Parking Brake)
Fixed, accompanied by the message “Parking brake fault”. The vehicle cannot be immobilized with the engine running.
If manual application and release commands are not working, the electric parking brake control lever is faulty.
The automatic functions must be used at all times and are automatically re-enabled in the event of a control lever fault.
Carry out (2).
Fixed, accompanied by the message “Parking brake fault”.
The parking brake is faulty: manual and automatic functions may not be working. When stationary, to immobilize the vehicle:
- Pull and hold the control lever for approximately 7 to 15 seconds, until the indicator lamp comes on on the instrument panel.
If this procedure does not work, secure the vehicle
- Park on a level surface.
- With a manual gearbox, engage a gear.
- With an automatic gearbox or drive selector, select P, then place the supplied chock against one of the wheels.
Then carry out (2).
Automatic functions deactivated (electric parking brake)
Fixed.
The “automatic application” (on switching off the engine) and “automatic release” (on acceleration) functions are deactivated.
If automatic application/release is no longer possible
- Start the engine.
- Use the control to apply the electric parking brake.
- Take your foot fully off the brake pedal.
- Hold the control pressed in the release direction for between 10 and 15 seconds.
- Release the control.
- Depress and hold the brake pedal.
- Pull the control in the application direction for 2 seconds.
- Release the control and the brake pedal.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Fixed.
The anti-lock braking system has a fault. The vehicle retains conventional braking. Drive carefully at moderate speed, then carry out (3).
Power steering
Fixed.
The power steering has a fault.
Drive carefully at moderate speed, then carry out (3).
Engine Self-diagnostic system (Petrol or Diesel)
Flashing.
The engine management system has a fault.
There is a risk that the catalytic converter will be destroyed.
You must carry out (2).
Fixed.
The emissions control system has a fault. The warning lamp should go off when the engine is started.
Carry out (3) without delay.
Fixed.
A minor engine fault has been detected. Carry out (3).
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)/Anti-slip Regulation (ASR)
Flashing.
DSC/ASR regulation is activated in the event of a loss of grip or trajectory.
Fixed.
The DSC/ASR system has a fault.
Carry out (3).
Emergency brake malfunction (with electric parking brake)
Fixed, accompanied by the message “Parking brake fault”. Emergency braking does not deliver optimal performance.
If automatic release is not available, use manual release or carry out (3).
Hill start assist
Fixed, accompanied by the message “Anti roll-back system The system has a fault.
Carry out (3).
Dynamic stability control (DSC)/Anti-slip Regulation (ASR)
Fixed.
The system is deactivated.
The DSC/ASR system is reactivated automatically when the vehicle is restarted, and at speeds above approximately 31 mph (50 km/h).
At speeds below 31 mph (50 km/h), it can be reactivated manually.
Under-Inflation
Fixed.
The pressure in one or more tyres is too Check the pressure of the tyres as soon as possible.
Reinitialize the detection system after adjusting the pressure.
Under-inflation warning lamp flashing then fixed and Service warning lamp fixed.
The tyre pressure monitoring system is faulty. Under-inflation detection is no longer monitored.
Check the tyre pressures as soon as possible and carry out (3).
Engine pre-heating (Diesel)
Temporarily on (up to approximately 30 seconds in severe weather conditions).
When switching on the ignition, if the weather conditions and the engine temperature make it necessary.
Wait until the warning lamp goes off before starting.
When the warning lamp goes off, starting will occur immediately if you press and hold:
- the clutch pedal with a manual gearbox.
- the brake pedal with an automatic gearbox. If the engine does not start, make the engine starting request again, while keeping your foot on the pedal.
Particle filter (Diesel)
Fixed, accompanied by an audible signal and a message about the risk of particle filter blockage.
The particle filter is nearing saturation.
As soon as traffic conditions permit, regenerate the filter by driving at a speed of at least 37 mph (60 km/h) until the warning lamp goes off.
Fuel filter (Diesel)
Fixed.
The Diesel fuel filter contains water. Carry out (2) without delay. Risk of damaging the fuel injection system!
Airbags
Fixed.
One of the airbags or seat belt pyrotechnic pretensioners is faulty.
Carry out (3).
Front Passenger Airbag (ON)
Fixed.
The front passenger airbag is activated. The control is in the “ON” position.
In this case, do NOT install a “rearward facing” child seat on the front passenger seat – risk of serious injury!
Front passenger Airbag (OFF)
Fixed.
The front passenger airbag is deactivated. The control is set to the “OFF” position.
A “rearward facing” child seat can be installed, unless there is a fault with the airbags (Airbags warning lamp on).
Low fuel level (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed, with the reserve level shown in red, accompanied by an audible signal and the display of a message.
When it first comes on, you have approximately 6 litres of fuel remaining in the tank (reserve). Until the fuel level is topped up, this alert will be repeated every time the ignition is switched on, with increasing frequency as the fuel level decreases and approaches zero.
Refuel without delay to avoid running out of fuel.
Never drive until completely empty, as this could damage the emissions control and injection systems.
Low traction Battery Level (Electric)
Fixed, accompanied by an audible signal. The state of charge of the traction battery View the remaining range.
Put the vehicle on charge as soon as possible.
Tortoise Mode with Limited Driving range (Electric)
Fixed.
The state of charge of the traction battery is critical.
The engine power gradually decreases.
You must put the vehicle on charge.
If the warning lamp remains lit, carry out (2).
Pedestrian Horn (Electric)
Fixed.
Horn fault detected.
Carry out (3).
Collision Risk Alert/Active Safety Brake
Fixed, accompanied by the display of a message.
The system has been deactivated via the touch screen (Driving/Vehicle menu).
Flashing. The system activates and brakes the vehicle momentarily to reduce the speed of collision with the vehicle in front.
For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Fixed, accompanied by a message and an audible signal.
The system has a fault. Carry out (3).
Fixed.
The system has a fault.
If these warning lamps come on after the engine is switched off and then restarted, carry out (3).
Active Lane Departure Warning System
Fixed.
The system has been automatically deactivated or placed on standby.
Flashing.
You are about to cross a broken lane marking without operating the direction indicators.
The system is activated, then corrects the trajectory on the side of the detected lane marking.
For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Fixed.
The system has a fault.
Lane positioning Assist
Fixed, accompanied by the Service warning lamp. The system has a fault.
Carry out (3).
Stop & Start (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed, accompanied by the display of a message.
The Stop & Start system has been deactivated manually.
The engine will not switch off at the next traffic stop.
Fixed.
The Stop & Start system has been deactivated automatically.
The engine will not switch off at the next traffic stop, if the exterior temperature is:
- below 0°C.
- above +35°C.
For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Flashing then fixed, accompanied by a message.
The system has a fault.
Carry out (3).
AdBlue® (BlueHDi)
On for around 30 seconds when starting the vehicle, accompanied by a message indicating the driving range.
The driving range is between 1,500 and 500 miles (2,400 and 800 km).
Top up the AdBlue®.
Fixed, on switching on the ignition, accompanied by an audible signal and a message indicating the driving range.
The driving range is between 500 and 62 miles (800 and 100 km).
Promptly top up the AdBlue®, or carry out (3).
Flashing, accompanied by an audible signal and a message indicating the driving range.
The driving range is less than 62 miles (100 km). You must top up the AdBlue® to avoid engine starting being prevented, or carry out (3).
Flashing, accompanied by an audible signal and a message indicating that
starting is prevented.
The AdBlue® tank is empty: the legally required engine immobiliser system prevents the engine from starting.
To restart the engine, top up the AdBlue® or carry out (2).
It is essential to add at least 5 litres of AdBlue® to the tank.
SCR Emissions Control System (BlueHDi)
Fixed when the ignition is switched on, accompanied by an audible signal and a message.
A malfunction of the SCR emissions control system has been detected.
This alert disappears once the exhaust emissions return to normal levels.
Flashing AdBlue® warning lamp on switching on the ignition, with the Engine self-diagnostics warning lamp on fixed, accompanied by an audible signal and a message indicating the driving range. Depending on the message displayed, it is possible to drive for up to 685 miles (1,100 km) before the engine immobiliser is triggered.Carry out (3) without delay, to avoid starting being prevented.
Flashing AdBlue® warning lamp on switching on the ignition, with the Engine self-diagnostics warning lamp on fixed, accompanied by an audible signal and a message indicating that starting is prevented. The engine immobiliser prevents the engine from restarting (the permitted driving limit has been exceeded after confirmation of a malfunction of the emissions control system).
To start the engine, carry out (2).
Rear Foglamp
Fixed.
The lamp is on.
Foot on the clutch (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed.
Stop & Start: the change to START mode is rejected because the clutch pedal is not fully depressed.
Fully depress the clutch pedal.
Foot on the Brake
Fixed.
Insufficient or no pressure on the brake
Automatic headlamp Dipping
Fixed, accompanied by an audible signal and a message.
A function or camera malfunction is detected. Carry out (2).
Green warning/indicator Lamps
Stop & Start (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed.
When the vehicle stops, the Stop & Start puts the engine into STOP mode.
Flashing temporarily.
STOP mode is momentarily unavailable
or START mode is automatically triggered. For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Vehicle Ready to Drive (Electric)
Fixed, accompanied by an audible signal when it comes on.
The vehicle is ready to drive and the thermal comfort systems are available.
The indicator lamp goes out upon reaching a speed of approximately 3 mph (5 km/h) and lights up again when the vehicle stops moving. The lamp will go out when you turn off the engine and exit the vehicle.
Park Assist
Fixed.
The function is active.
For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Lane positioning assist
Fixed.
The function has been activated. All conditions have been met: the system is operating.
For more information, refer to the Driving section.
Direction indicators
Flashing with audible signal. The direction indicators are on.
Sidelamps
Fixed.
The lamps are on.
Dipped beam headlamps
Fixed.
The lamps are on.
Automatic Headlamp Dipping
Fixed. The function has been activated via the touch screen (Driving/Vehicle menu). The lighting control stalk is in the “AUTO” position.
For more information, refer to the Lighting and visibility section.
Front foglamps
Fixed.
The front foglamps are on.
Blue warning/indicator lamps Main beam headlamps
Fixed.
The lamps are on.
Black/white warning lamps
Foot on the clutch (Petrol or Diesel)
Fixed.
Stop & Start: the change to START mode is rejected because the clutch pedal is not fully depressed.
Fully depress the clutch pedal.
Foot on the Brake
Fixed.
Insufficient or no pressure on the brake
Fuel filter (Diesel)
Fixed.
The Diesel fuel filter contains water. Carry out (2) without delay. Risk of damaging the fuel injection system!
Indicators
Service Indicator
The servicing information is expressed in terms of distance (miles or kilometres) and time
(months or days).
The alert is given at whichever of these two terms is reached first.
The servicing information is displayed in the instrument panel. Depending on the version of the vehicle:
- The distance recorder display line indicates the distance remaining before the next service is due, or the distance travelled since it was due preceded by the “-” sign.
- An alert message indicates the distance remaining, as well as the period before the next service is due or how long it is overdue.
The value indicated is calculated according to the distance covered and the time elapsed since the last service.
The alert may also be triggered close to a due date.
Service Spanner
On temporarily when the ignition is switched on.
Between 620 and 1,860 miles (1,000 and 3,000 km) remain before the next service is due.
Fixed, when the ignition is switched on. The next service is due in less than 620 miles (1,000 km).
Have your vehicle serviced very soon.
Service spanner Flashing
Flashing then fixed, when the
ignition is switched on.
(With BlueHDi Diesel engines, associated with the Service warning lamp.)
The servicing interval has been exceeded. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Resetting the Service Indicator
The service indicator must be reset after each service.
If you have serviced your vehicle yourself:
- Switch the ignition off.
Press and hold the button located on the end of the lighting control stalk. - Switch on the ignition without starting the engine; a temporary display window appears and a countdown begins.
- When the display indicates =0, release the lighting control stalk button; the spanner symbol disappears.
If you disconnect the battery following this operation, lock the vehicle and wait at least 5 minutes for the reset to be registered.
Reminder of the Servicing Information
You can view the servicing information by pressing the “Check” button in the Driving/Vehicle touch screen menu.
Engine Oil Level Indicator
(Depending on version)
On versions fitted with an electric gauge, the engine oil level status is displayed on the
instrument panel for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on, after the servicing information.
The level read will only be correct if the vehicle is on level ground and the engine has been off for more than 30 minutes.
Oil Level Correct
This is indicated by the display of “OIL OK” or by the message “Oil level correct” (depending on the instrument panel).
Low Oil Level
This is indicated by the display of “OIL” or by the message “Oil level incorrect” (depending on the instrument panel), accompanied by the lighting of the Service warning lamp and an audible signal.
If a low oil level is confirmed by a check using the dipstick, the level must be topped up to avoid damage to the engine.
For more information on Checking levels, refer to the corresponding section.
Oil gauge Malfunction
This is indicated by the display of “OIL_ _”
or by the message “Oil level measurement invalid” (depending on the instrument panel), accompanied by the lighting of the Service warning lamp and an audible signal.
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
In the event of a malfunction of the
electric gauge, the oil level is no longer monitored.
If the system is faulty, you must check the engine oil level using the manual dipstick located in the engine compartment.
For more information on Checking levels, refer to the corresponding section.
Coolant Temperature Indicator
Depending on the type of instrument panel, this information is only available in the instrument panel’s customisable area.
With the Engine Running
- In zone A, the temperature is correct.
- In zone B, the temperature is too high.
The associated warning lamp and the STOP warning lamp light up in red on the instrument panel, accompanied by the display of a message and an audible signal.
You must stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
Wait a few minutes before switching off the engine.
After switching off the ignition, carefully open the bonnet and check the coolant level.
For more information on Checking levels, refer to the corresponding section.
AdBlue® Range Indicators (BlueHDi)
The Diesel BlueHDi engines are equipped with a system that associates the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) emissions control system and the Diesel particle filter (DPF) for the treatment of exhaust gases. They cannot function without AdBlue® fluid.
When the level of AdBlue® falls below the reserve level (between 1,500 and 0 miles (2,400 and 0 km)), a warning lamp lights up when
the ignition is switched on and an estimate
of the distance that can be travelled before engine starting is prevented is displayed in the instrument panel.
The engine starting prevention system required by regulations is activated automatically once the AdBlue® tank is empty. It is then no longer possible to start the engine until the minimum level of AdBlue® has been topped up.
Manual Display of Driving Range
While the driving range is greater than 1,500 miles (2,400 km), it is not displayed automatically.
You can view the range information by pressing the “Check” button in
the Driving/Vehicle touch screen menu.
Actions Required Related to a lack of AdBlue®
The following warning lamps light up when the quantity of AdBlue® is below the reserve level: driving range of 1,500 miles (2,400 km). Together with the warning lamps, messages regularly remind you of the need to top up to avoid engine starting being prevented. Refer to the Warning and indicator lamps section for details of the messages displayed.
For more Information on AdBlue®
(BlueHDi) and in particular on topping up, refer to the corresponding section.
| Warning/ indicator lamps on | Action | Remaining range |
 |
Top up. | Between 1,500 miles and 500 miles (2,400 km and 800 km) |
 |
Top up as soon as possible. | Between 500 miles and 62 miles (800 km and 100 km) |
|
A top-up is vital, there is a risk that the engine will be prevented from starting. | Between 62 miles and 0 miles (100 km and 0 km) |
|
To be able to restart the engine, add at least 5 litres of AdBlue® to the tank. | 0 miles (km) |
Malfunction of the SCR Emissions Control System
Malfunction Detection
If a malfunction is detected, these warning lamps come on, accompanied by an audible signal and the display of an “Emissions control fault” message.
The alert is triggered while driving when the fault is detected for the first time, and thereafter when switching on the ignition for subsequent journeys, for as long as the cause of the fault persists.If the fault is temporary, the alert disappears during the next journey, after self-diagnostic checks of the SCR emissions control system.
Malfunction confirmed during the permitted driving phase (between 685 miles and 0 miles (1,100 km and 0 km))
If the fault indication is still displayed permanently after 31 miles (50 km) of driving, the fault in the SCR system is confirmed.
The AdBlue warning lamp flashes and a message is displayed (“Emissions control fault: starting prevented in X miles (kms)”), indicating the driving range in miles or kilometres. While driving, the message is displayed every 30 seconds. The alert is repeated when switching on the ignition.
You can continue driving for up to 685 miles (1,100 km) before the engine starting prevention system is triggered.
Have it checked by a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
Starting Prevented
Every time the ignition is switched on, the message “Emissions control fault: Starting prevented” is displayed.
To restart the Engine
Contact a CITROËN dealer or a qualified workshop.
Power Indicator (Electric)
CHARGE
Traction battery charging during deceleration and braking.
ECO
Moderate energy consumption and optimised driving range.
POWER
Energy consumption by the drive train during acceleration.
Charge level Indicator (Electric)
The traction battery’s actual charge level and the remaining range are displayed continuously when the vehicle is started.
With the ignition off, opening the driver’s door activates the indicator.
Associated Warning Lamps
Two successive alert levels indicate that the energy available has dropped to a low level:
- 1st level: Reserve
The state of charge of the traction battery is low. - Fixed, accompanied by an audible signal.
- View the remaining range on the instrument panel.
Put the vehicle on charge as soon as possible.
2nd level: Critical
The state of charge of the traction battery is critical.
Fixed, together with the reserve warning lamp, accompanied by an audible signal.
- You must put the vehicle on charge.
Useful Link
View Full PDF:2021-2023 Citroen C4 User’s Manual | Auto User Guide
2023 CITROËN C4 Specs, Price, Features, Mileage and Review