Porsche Dashboard Warning Lights
Porsche Dashboard Symbols Illuminated? We Will Help You Figure Out What's Going On.
Understanding your Porsche's dashboard warning lights is essential to keeping your vehicle in peak condition and ensuring safe, enjoyable driving. In this guide, we'll clearly explain what each warning symbol in your Porsche means, outline potential issues, and provide advice on how to respond - helping you maintain the reliability, performance, and longevity of your Porsche.
Porsche Yellow vs Red Dashboard Warning Lights & Symbols
If you see a red warning light or symbol on your Porsche dashboard, it’s important to take the appropriate action. Porsche vehicles are equipped with a sophisticated dashboard warning system designed to alert drivers to potential issues. These warnings are color-coded to indicate the severity of the problem: yellow (or amber) lights typically signify cautionary alerts that require attention but may not demand immediate action, while red lights indicate critical issues that require urgent intervention to prevent potential damage or safety hazards. Understanding the difference between these warning lights can help you respond appropriately and keep your Porsche in peak condition.
When a warning light illuminates on your Porsche’s dashboard, the first step is to identify its color and symbol to determine the severity of the issue. If it’s yellow, you should investigate the problem soon—checking the owner's manual or using an OBD-II scanner can help provide more insight. If it’s red, stop driving as soon as it’s safe to do so and seek professional assistance immediately. Understanding the difference between yellow and red warning lights allows you to respond appropriately, ensuring the performance, longevity, and safety of your Porsche. Regular maintenance and timely diagnostics will help keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs.
Red Dashboard Warning Lights
Immediate Attention Required
A red warning light on a Porsche dashboard is a critical alert, signaling a major system failure or an urgent safety issue that requires immediate action. These warnings often relate to the braking system, engine, suspension, or electrical system, and continuing to drive with a red warning light can lead to severe damage or even a hazardous driving situation. Common red warnings include the Brake System Fault, Chassis System Fault, and Engine Oil Pressure Warning. For instance, a red Brake System Fault warning could indicate a loss of brake fluid or a failure in the hydraulic system, making it unsafe to continue driving. Likewise, a red Engine Oil Pressure warning suggests a loss of oil pressure, which, if ignored, could lead to catastrophic engine failure. In these cases, the safest course of action is to pull over immediately and seek professional assistance.
Engine Temperature Warning
This alert is telling you that the engine coolant temperature at dangerously high level. Stop immediately, let engine cool, have car towed to specialist. We promise you don't want to cause damage to a Porche engine from overheating.
Low Fuel Warning
We all know this one, but for those pretending not to know, this alert is telling you that you have very low fuel situation or completely empty tank. Refuel immediately. If tank is full, check fuel level sensor at your next service.
Engine Oil Pressure Warning
No or dangerously low oil pressure in engine is what you are seeing here. This is a bad one folks, so don't ignore it. Do not run engine, and we recommend you tow your car to a specialist immediately. Low oil pressure can do real damage to an engine.
Safety Restraint and Airbag
This is a failure in safety restraint system. This symbol indicates a fault in the safety system that controls seat belts, tensioners, airbags, and the occupancy safety system. But it could also be that airbags don't work, so tow to specialist immediately.
Battery and Electrical System
This indicates a fault in the battery charging and vehicle electrical system. Switch off vehicle, get to specialist, don't replace battery first. Could be as simple as a battery failure, but could also be alternator or power management fault.
ABS Brake System Warning
This ABS fault like requires immediate specialist attention. Don't drive the car. Do not pass go. Just get the car transported to a Porsche specialist asap. You don't want to be dealing with brakes that don't work, especially in a car like a Porsche.
Chassis System / Suspension
A red Chassis System or Suspension Fault warning on a Porsche indicates a critical issue with the suspension, such as air suspension failure, adaptive damper malfunction, or ride height sensor problems, requiring immediate attention.
Brake Pad Wear Indicator
A red Brake Pad Wear Indicator Fault on a Porsche signals that the brake pads are excessively worn and need immediate replacement to ensure safe braking performance. Replace brake pads, sensor, and rotors as worn to minimum safe level.
Brake System Fault
A red Brake System Fault on a Porsche indicates a serious issue with the braking system, such as low brake fluid, hydraulic failure, or a malfunction in the braking assist system, requiring immediate attention for safety. Do not drive, have vehicle towed to specialist
Transmission Fault
Do not drive the car. Tow the car to a Porsche specialist and have them diagnose the cause of the transmission fault or failure. Transmission repairs are expensive on Porsche, so the quicker this situation is diagnosed the less damage can occur.
General System Fault Warning
A red General System Fault Warning on a Porsche indicates a critical issue within the vehicle’s systems, requiring immediate diagnosis to prevent potential safety risks or mechanical failure. It’s important to go through the system messages to understand where this fault is coming from.
Driver’s Key Fault Light
With push button start this could just be an indication that the key is not in a good position to be read. In the center console is the perfect place. The red version of this light usually indicates a more significant problem than the battery in the key becoming weak.
Seat Belt Warning
Looks like a red person strapped down by red and white belts. This symbol is the seat belt safety warning light. It suggests a seat belt is not being worn by an occupant and is usually accompanied by a very annoying noise. Have the occupant put on the seat belt!
Yellow Dashboard Warning Lights
Proceed with Caution
Yellow or amber warning lights serve as early warnings that something in your Porsche is not functioning optimally but may not yet be a critical failure. These alerts often relate to engine performance, traction control, emissions, or minor system faults. Common yellow warning lights include the Check Engine Light, ABS Warning Light, PASM Suspension Warning, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Fault. While you can usually continue driving with a yellow warning light, it’s essential to diagnose and address the issue as soon as possible to prevent more severe problems from developing. For example, a yellow Check Engine Light could indicate anything from a loose gas cap to a failing sensor or misfire. Similarly, a yellow Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning suggests a tire pressure issue but does not necessarily mean a tire is immediately unsafe. Ignoring these warnings for too long, however, can lead to performance degradation, increased wear, and potential safety risks.
ABS Fault Light
A yellow ABS Fault Light on a Porsche indicates a problem with the Anti-lock Braking System, which may reduce braking efficiency and traction control but does not affect basic braking function. Have ABS system diagnosed by specialist.
Brake Pad Wear Light
A yellow Brake Pad Wear Light on a Porsche warns that the brake pads are approaching their wear limit and should be replaced soon to maintain optimal braking performance. Brake pad wear indicator is usually quite accurate, so replace them please.
Bulb Out Warning Light
A yellow Bulb Out Warning Light on a Porsche indicates that one or more exterior bulbs have failed and need replacement for proper visibility and safety. Check and replace burnt out bulb or inspect light assembly to see if anything is wrong.
Check Engine Light
A yellow Check Engine Light on a Porsche signals a detected issue within the engine or emissions system, ranging from minor sensor faults to more serious mechanical problems. While the car may be drivable, a diagnostic scan is recommended.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Fault
A yellow Tire Pressure Monitoring Fault Light on a Porsche indicates a malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which may prevent accurate tire pressure readings. Could be faulty sensor, low battery in a sensor, or interference, needing inspection.
Cruise Control Warning
A yellow Cruise Control Warning Fault Light on a Porsche indicates an issue with the cruise control system, which may prevent it from functioning properly. This could be caused by a sensor malfunction, electrical fault, or related system issue, requiring diagnosis to restore operation.
Front Fog Lights On
A yellow Front Fog Lights On indicator on a Porsche simply confirms that the front fog lights are actively in use, helping improve visibility in foggy or low-light conditions. Now, if you aren't going through fog, maybe turn off the fog lights? Yeah, that would be smart.
PSM System Deactivated
A yellow PSM (Porsche Stability Management) System Deactivated warning on a Porsche indicates that the stability control system has been manually turned off or is malfunctioning, reducing traction and stability assistance. Good luck champ.
Headlight Adjustment Fault
A yellow Headlight Adjustment Fault on a Porsche indicates a malfunction in the headlight leveling system, which may affect beam alignment and visibility. Could be a sensor issue, motor failure, or electrical fault, requiring inspection. Have automatic headlight positioning checked.
Key Reading Malfunction
A yellow Key Reading Malfunction means the vehicle is having trouble detecting or communicating with the key, possibly due to a weak key battery, interference, or an immobilizer system issue. If the problem persists, using a backup key or replacing the key battery may help.
Washer Fluid Low Warning
A yellow Washer Fluid Low Warning on a Porsche indicates that the windshield washer fluid reservoir is running low and needs to be refilled to ensure proper windshield cleaning and visibility. If you didn't know what this one, we would be very concerned about you owning any car, let alone a Porsche.
Low Oil Level Warning Light
A yellow Low Oil Level Warning Light on a Porsche indicates that the engine oil level is low and should be checked and topped up promptly to prevent potential engine damage. If the warning persists after adding oil, further inspection may be needed.
PASM Suspension/Chassis Fault
A yellow PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) Suspension/Chassis Fault Light on a Porsche indicates an issue with the adaptive suspension system, which may affect ride quality and handling. Caused by a faulty sensor, damping system malfunction, or electrical issue, requiring diagnostic evaluation.
Brake Pedal Not Activated
A yellow Brake Pedal Not Activated light on a Porsche indicates that the brake pedal has not been pressed when required for starting the engine or engaging certain functions. Pressing the brake pedal should resolve the warning; if it persists, there may be an issue with the brake switch or sensor.
PSM/Traction Control Warning
A yellow PSM (Porsche Stability Management)/Traction Control Warning Light on a Porsche indicates a fault or deactivation in the stability and traction control system, which may reduce grip and handling performance. Caused by a sensor issue, low battery voltage, or system malfunction.
Rear Fog Lights Activated
A yellow Rear Fog Lights Activated light on a Porsche indicates that the rear fog lights are turned on, enhancing visibility for drivers behind you in foggy or low-visibility conditions.. An important hint: Turn off rear fog lights if not foggy. You are welcome.
Speed Warning Indicator
A yellow Speed Warning Indicator Light on a Porsche alerts the driver that the vehicle has exceeded a preset speed limit. This feature serves as a reminder and can typically be adjusted or deactivated through the vehicle’s settings. We just ignore it.
Spoiler Failure Warning
A yellow Spoiler Failure Warning Light indicates a malfunction in the active rear spoiler system, which may prevent it from deploying or retracting properly. This could be due to a mechanical issue, sensor fault, or electrical failure. Inspect it for proper aero and stability.
Engine Start Stop Disabled
A yellow Engine Start Stop Disabled light indicates that the auto start-stop system is temporarily deactivated due to specific conditions, such as low battery charge, extreme temperatures, or high power demand. Could also be somebody turning it off.
Steering System Fault
A yellow Steering System Fault light indicates a potential issue with the power steering system, which may result in reduced steering assistance. This could be caused by low power steering fluid (in hydraulic systems) or electrical fault. Requires inspection so take it to service.
Chassis/Suspension Fault
A yellow Chassis/Suspension Fault light on a Porsche indicates a potential issue with the suspension system, which may affect ride comfort and handling. Do not drive. Have vehicle inspected immediately.
General System Warning
A yellow General System Warning light on a Porsche indicates a non-critical issue detected within the vehicle’s systems. It may be accompanied by additional messages or warnings. Check messages.
Safety & Restraint
If you see a message or warning light on your Porsche dashboard related to seat belts, restraint systems, airbags, lane change assist, and other driver aids or safety systems in your Porsche, it’s important to take the appropriate action. We have outlined some of the common alerts you may see below and what to do about them.
Restraint System Malfunction
A "Porsche Restraint System Malfunction" indicates a problem with the airbag system in your Porsche, meaning the airbags might not deploy properly in a crash due to a fault detected within the safety restraint system, which includes the seatbelts and airbags; this is usually signaled by a warning light on your dashboard. A restraint system malfunction is a serious safety concern, so get your car inspected by a qualified Porsche technician as soon as possible. While you can still drive your car, it is not recommended.
Airbag Warning Light
The airbag warning light on a Porsche dashboard indicates a potential issue with the airbag system. The light is usually an icon of a person sitting with an airbag deploying. The light comes on when starting the engine and stays on, but it can also come on while driving. Possible causes include something as simple as a loose connection, a malfunctioning sensor, and deactivated airbags. The system requires a diagnostic scan to identify the individual component causing the issue. Get your car to an expert service center as soon as possible.
Lane Change Assist – Service
A "Lane Change Assist Warning - Service Required" message indicates that lane change assist, which alerts drivers about vehicles in their blind spots, is malfunctioning and needs to be checked. This could be due to faulty sensors, software issues, or other technical problems requiring professional diagnosis and repair. This system uses radar sensors to monitor blind spots and provide visual warnings when another vehicle is approaching from behind or is in your blind spot. Take your car to a Porsche service center as soon as possible.
Lane Change Assist Unavailable
This message can be intermittent and seemingly appear randomly. The lane change assist system has had a number of revisions and updates since it’s introduction. This message is usually an indication of the need for a software update to the main detection system. A diagnostic scan is needed. This doesn’t stop you driving your Porsche, but you should be aware that the detection system for lane changing is not functioning as expected. You’ll have to go old-school and use the mirror!
Brake and ABS Systems
These are the alerts and messages that related to your brakes, ABS or a brake related systems. Obviously we are talking about brakes here folks so it goes without saying you should pay attention to these. If you have a brake warning message do not ignore it and take action immediately.
ABS Failure
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) failure in a Porsche can occur due to a number of reasons, including damaged sensors, faulty wiring, or low brake fluid. While you can still drive your car with the ABS warning light on, it's not advisable to ignore the issue. Risk of accidents increases without ABS. Reboot the computer may fix a simple glitch. If not, then check for a bad ABS fuse and if that fails, go to specialist.
ABS Warning Light
This warning light is associated with a failure in the ABS system on older cars. A minor fault in the system can cause this light to be illuminated. Here’s what to do – Do not ignore this light. This is a critical safety system and is designed to help you in an emergency situation. Have the car scanned by a Porsche specialist to determine the exact cause of the warning light. In many cases this can be as simple as a wheel speed sensor.
ABS / PSM Failure – Caution
A "ABS / PSM Failure - Caution" message on a Porsche dashboard indicates a malfunction within the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Porsche Stability Management (PSM) systems, meaning you should drive with extreme caution as the car's stability control features may be compromised, although normal braking might still function; consult a Porsche specialist immediately.
Brake Distribution Message
A "Brake Distribution" message on a Porsche indicates that the car's braking system is unable to properly control the distribution of braking force between the front and rear wheels, meaning it might not be applying the brakes evenly across all wheels, which is a safety concern and should be addressed immediately by a Porsche specialist; do not ignore this message and continue driving as it can be dangerous.
Electric Parking Brake Error
This message indicates that the parking brake did not activate or deactivate correctly. The message will likely go away while driving. If the message returns, it is important to scan the system and understand which component is experiencing an issue. Parking brake repairs can be expensive, so the quicker you identify the problem the less cost will likely be involved. Porsche has updates for this system that potentially address this issue.
Fault Electric Parking Brake
This message relates to the ability for the electrical system to operate the parking brake. The parking brake is applied via electric motors. Here’s what to do – Hopefully at this stage the parking brake is off. Do not attempt to operate it. If the parking brake is on, then you should tow it. Either way, you need to get it to a Porsche specialist and scan the car to identify the failed component.
Fault Parking Brake
The parking brake on later vehicles is controlled by electric motors for application and deactivation. This fault usually occurs before the parking brake is activated and typically indicates an electrical fault with the motor operation. Here’s what to do – You can drive the car but do not attempt to use the parking brake. Have the system scanned at a Porsche. Warning: parking brake faults can be expensive.
Power Brake Error Service
A "Power Brake Error Service Required" message on a Porsche indicates a problem with the vacuum assist system in your brake booster, usually signifying a need to have your brakes checked by a mechanic as soon as possible; this message often appears on startup and could be related to issues with the vacuum supply line or potentially require a software update depending on model.
Engine
If you see a check engine alert on your Porsche it is nerve-wracking. It is normally related to your engine performance or oil level so these are all important alerts. Below, we take you through some common Porsche engine warning messages and what to do when you see them. This list isn't extensive and we broadly recommend you get your car to a specialist whenever you see an engine message. If you have engine related warning messages do not ignore them.
Oil Can Failure Indicator
The oil pressure sensors are a fairly common fault. There are two contacts on the sensor - one for the gauge, and one which is a simple switch for the warning. The gauge may be reading correctly, but a fault can come up if the switch sticks or fails. Do not run the engine though, just in case it is real. Oil pressure is critical to protecting the engine and performance.
Check Engine Light
A yellow Check Engine Light on a Porsche signals a detected issue within the engine or emissions system, ranging from minor sensor faults to more serious mechanical problems. While the car may be drivable, a diagnostic scan is recommended. The list of potential problems is long and can be small or big. Our advice is to check messages and then take the car to a specialist.
Reduced Engine Power
A "reduced engine power" light on a Porsche indicates that the car's engine management system has activated a safety mode, limiting power output to protect the engine from potential damage; essentially putting the car into "limp mode." This light signifies a potential issue that needs immediate attention, as driving with reduced power can lead to further complications.
Engine Too Hot Park Vehicle
This indicates that engine management has detected a situation that would cause overheating in the engine. Significant damage can result from an engine that gets too hot. Stop the engine immediately and do not drive the car. Have the car towed to a Porsche specialist immediately. Overheating can be catastrophic to Porsche engines so don't mess with this.
Engine Start Stop Operation
This message tells you that the system that controls the start and stop mechanism for the engine is not functioning. This could be because you have disabled it or because of a condition that prevents the normal operation. Continue to drive but check to see if the start stop button has been pressed and the system deactivated by the user. If not, thats a problem.
Reduced Power Driving Permitted
The "Reduced Power Driving Permitted" message in a Porsche indicates that the engine is running in a safe mode to protect the engine and transmission. Driving with reduced engine power can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs. It can also be dangerous, for example when trying to make turns across traffic.
Engine Extract Vent Message
This message indicates that the engine management has detected a failure in the engine cooling fans on the rear engine lid. Typically only one fan will fail at one time. Run the engine until hot and check which fan is not running and replace. Also check the wiring and connectors to the fans first. If neither fan is running take a close look at the wiring. Don’t let engine get too warm.
Oil Pressure Measurement Fault
A "Oil Pressure Measurement Fault Driving Permitted" message on a Porsche indicates that the car is detecting a potential issue with the oil pressure measurement system, but driving is still considered permissible, although it is strongly advised to have the car checked by a Porsche specialist as soon as possible as it could signify a serious problem.
Engine Cooling
These warning lights and alerts are related to your cars cooling system. These things can be small or big so the nuances matter, and since engines can go caboom when they overheat you don't want to guess. Engine health and performance relies in part on effective cooling. Engine overheating can be catastrophic and can cause expensive mechanical engine failure.
Top Up Coolant Immediately – Do Not Drive On
A "Top Up Coolant Immediately - Do Not Drive On" message on a Porsche dashboard means that your engine coolant level is critically low and you should not drive the car at all until you have added coolant and identified the source of the leak; it is a serious warning indicating potential engine damage if you continue driving. Don't drive the car further as a low coolant level can lead to engine overheating and significant damage.
Fault Cooling System – Visit Repair Shop. Driving Permitted
A "Fault Cooling System - Visit Repair Shop" message on a Porsche dashboard indicates a problem with the car's cooling system, meaning you should immediately take your car to a mechanic as driving with a faulty cooling system can lead to serious engine damage; even if the car appears to be running normally, it's not recommended to drive further. This message is a serious warning. Don't ignore it and get it to service.
Check Coolant Level Yellow Light Alert
A "Check Coolant Level" yellow light alert on a Porsche dashboard indicates that the coolant level in your engine has dropped below the recommended level, prompting you to add coolant to the reservoir as soon as possible to prevent engine overheating; this is not an immediate emergency but should be addressed promptly. Driving with low coolant can lead to engine damage due to overheating
Cooling System Fault – Service Required
A "Cooling System Fault - Service Required" message on a Porsche indicates that the car's engine management system has detected a malfunction within the cooling system, requiring immediate attention from a mechanic as it could potentially lead to engine overheating; this message usually signifies a failing component like a thermostat, not just low coolant levels, so driving with this warning is not recommended.
Electrics / Hybrid
These fun messages are all about those complex hybrid, battery, or electrical systems in your Porsche. This section covers what to do when messages associated with the hybrid and electrical systems on your Porsche appear on your dashboard. Hybrid warning messages and battery messages in general can effect your ability to drive the car any significant distance. Don't ignore them.
Battery Low Inspection Needed
This message indicates the primary battery voltage is reading below the level needed to efficiently operate the vehicle. What to do next – It’s likely the main bettery will need to be replaced but it’s important to understand why. Is the battery older (more than 5 years) or is the system not charging it correctly. We recommend a Porsche specialist replace the battery for you.
Hybrid System Failure
A "Hybrid System Failure" in a Porsche typically indicates a problem with the car's electric hybrid system, often related to the high-voltage battery, its connections, or the complex control software, which could manifest as reduced electric range, warning lights on the dashboard, or even the car not starting properly; to diagnose the issue, a qualified technician should scan for error codes.
Hybrid – Park Vehicle Safely
This message indicates that the vehicles hybrid system is not functioning correctly. Hybrid systems can be dangerous to work on and require special skills to diagnose and repair. Do not attempt to repair yourself. Do not drive the car and send it to a Porsche specialist that has the required hybrid skills to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Hybrid System Indicator
This screen and associated messages give you a clear indication of the health and functionality of the hybrid system. It includes the range and approximate charging state of the hybrid battery system. This screen is for information purposes only, nothing to do here. It simply communicates the approximate health of the hybrid battery and nothing else.
Exterior Lighting
External lighting is about safety and visibility to other drivers. Repairs associated with lighting can be inexpensive if you have the older assemblies with bulbs. The newer LED lights are significantly more expensive to repair, as they typically require replacement of the complete assembly. If you have an external lighting warning message do not ignore it. Check our guide below to see how to react and what to do next.
Tail Light Defective
This message indicates that one of the rear tail light assemblies is not working. It does not specify individual lights within the assembly. Here’s what to do – This fault suggests that the tail light assembly has completely failed. The likely solution is to replace the assembly, however, it’s worth thoroughly testing the wiring and the connectors for water damage.
Check High-Level Brake Light
This message refers to a failure in the third or high level brake light at the rear of the car. This is typically a single LED assembly and no bulbs can be replaced. The high level brake light at the rear of the car is a key safety feature, so it’s important to address this issue quickly. Replacement of the assembly is normally required, although it is important to inspect the wiring.
Headlight Beam Adjustment
The head light beam adjustment message suggests the system that automatically controls headlight position is not working correctly. The headlights are positioned based on ride height even if you have a standard suspension car with no ride height adjustment. There are a number of potential candidates that could be causing this message. Typically this is a ride height sensor fault.
Check Front Right Side Light
This message is typically seen on older vehicles and indicates that one of the front side lights is not illuminating. The good news is this is usually a simple bulb replacement. Check to make sure the message regarding which side is correct. If it isn’t, there could be a wire corrosion issue. If the message is correct, the bulb in the assembly will need to be replaced.
Check Daytime Running Light
This message suggests a failure in the daytime running light on the front of the car. Check to see if the light is illuminated with the car running. Daytime running lights should be working if you have them fitted. Typically these daytime running lights are LED based and no bulb replacement is possible. It makes sense to check the wiring and connections before replacing.
Check Static Cornering Light
This message indicates that the light designed to assist with cornering in the headlight assembly is not working. With the headlights on, you should be able to identify the difference between one side the other. The static cornering light is normally a small bulb in the main headlight assembly. It’s often overlooked and commonly needs replacing.
Dynamic Cornering Light
Later Porsche cars are fitted with cornering lights within the headlight assembly that move with the steering direction. This message indicates that at least one of the lights is not working correctly. This could be as simple as a bulb replacement. However, it could also be related to the sensor that identifies the steering position or the motor that controls the light position.
Fault Headlight Control
The beam height of the front headlights is adjusted by the car automatically based on ride height. This message suggests the system that controls that is not working correctly. It could be a ride height sensor to a faulty headlight assembly or wiring issue. This can be dangerous if the lights are set in too high or too low a position. Seek the help of a Porsche specialist.
PSM
If you see a PSM failure message or warning light on your Porsche dashboard, it’s important to take the appropriate action. This section covers what to do when messages associated with PSM appear on your Porsche dashboard. The PSM system in your Porsche is a critical safety system designed to assist the driver automatically in an intense driving situation. The system is designed to compensate and manage situations that could become dangerous, such as a rear end step out or slide on a wet road – oversteer or understeer. The PSM makes sure that the car is not over driven and helps to reduce the risk of accidents as a result.
ABS/PSM Failure Drive Caution
An "ABS/PSM Failure Drive Caution" message on a Porsche dashboard indicates a malfunction in the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system, meaning you should drive with extreme caution as the car's ability to prevent wheel lockup and maintain stability may be compromised, but you can still brake normally in most situations; however, it is crucial to get the car checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
PSM Loss - Possible to drive
The "PSM Loss – Possible to Drive" message on a Porsche indicates that Porsche Stability Management (PSM) has been disabled due to a fault in the system. PSM is responsible for assisting with traction control, braking stability, and overall vehicle handling, particularly in slippery or challenging driving conditions. While the car is still operable, driving without PSM means reduced stability assistance, increasing the risk of loss of control, especially in adverse weather or during aggressive driving.
PSM Failure - Consult Garage
The "PSM Failure – Consult Garage" message on a Porsche indicates a serious issue with the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system, which controls traction, stability, and braking assistance. Unlike the "PSM Loss – Possible to Drive" message, which suggests a temporary loss of stability control, this warning signifies a more critical failure that may impact vehicle safety. While the car may still be drivable, it is not recommended to continue driving long distances or in poor weather conditions.
