Can I still drive when the istop and exclamation mark lights are on together?
3 Answers
When the istop and exclamation mark lights are on together, you can continue driving. Here is the relevant information: istop: In Chinese, it's called automatic start-stop, which refers to the engine's start-stop function. It is automatically enabled by default after the vehicle starts. The istop switch is located between the steering wheel and the fuel tank switch. When you press the brake pedal firmly and the vehicle comes to a stop, the engine shuts off, and a green istop letter light appears on the dashboard. Lightly pressing the accelerator can restart the engine. Automatic start-stop: The engine automatic start-stop system automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle comes to a temporary stop (e.g., at a red light). When you need to move forward again, the system automatically restarts the engine.
This issue is quite common, and my car had a similar situation before. When the i-stop light and the exclamation mark light up simultaneously, it's best not to continue driving. The i-stop is the indicator light for the auto start-stop system, usually related to the battery's charge level; the exclamation mark could be a brake system warning. Last time I encountered this on the highway, I felt the brakes became soft, so I immediately pulled over, turned off the engine, and checked. It turned out to be a false alarm caused by an aging battery, but if it had been a real brake failure, it would have been too dangerous. Now, when I encounter similar situations, I always stop to check the brake fluid level and battery condition first. If I'm really unsure, I call for a tow truck. Safety is much more important than saving time.
I used to struggle with the same issue. The i-stop light indicates potential restrictions in the auto start-stop function, while that yellow exclamation mark is usually the main warning light. When these two lights come on simultaneously, my experience tells me to immediately find a safe spot to pull over. Once in the city, I encountered this situation and noticed the brake pedal had excessive free play - later diagnosis revealed it was caused by insufficient brake fluid. Now I always keep a brake fluid tester in my car, but if I ever see both lights illuminated again, I'd rather call a taxi than risk driving. Even short-distance slow driving isn't advisable - who knows if the brakes might suddenly fail midway.
