My AutoPlace

Battery or charging light: what it means and what to do

Red battery symbol

Stop nowPull over safely as soon as you can and get help.

The car has stopped charging its battery, usually because of a failing alternator or a broken drive belt. You're running on the battery alone and the car can stop within minutes.

What it means

While the engine runs, the alternator charges the battery and powers everything electrical. This light means that isn't happening.

Can I keep driving?

Only a short distance to a shop or safe place. The car will stop when the battery runs flat.

What to do now

  1. Switch off the air conditioning, radio, heated rear window and anything else you don't need.
  2. Drive straight to a shop or somewhere safe, without switching the engine off on the way.
  3. If the temperature warning comes on too, stop. On many cars the same belt drives the water pump.

Common causes

  • A failing alternator
  • A broken or slipping drive belt
  • Loose or corroded battery terminals
  • A failing battery

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all auto electricians in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the battery or charging light on?

Only a short distance to a shop or safe place. The car will stop when the battery runs flat.

What does the battery or charging light mean?

The car has stopped charging its battery, usually because of a failing alternator or a broken drive belt. You're running on the battery alone and the car can stop within minutes.

What should I do when the battery or charging light comes on?

Switch off the air conditioning, radio, heated rear window and anything else you don't need. Drive straight to a shop or somewhere safe, without switching the engine off on the way. If the temperature warning comes on too, stop. On many cars the same belt drives the water pump.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.