Q: Lightning bolt warning on

asked by on July 27, 2016

The dashboard in my van lately has been showing a warning light illuminated. It has a lightning bolt shape. What could be wrong? What should I check?

Throttle Controller Replacement $267.08 - $1836.29 Get a Quote
Warning Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. Thank you for writing in about your 2010 Volkswagen Routan. This light is an indication that there is a problem with the electronic throttle control. The electronic throttle control is what controls how much gas the van gets when you step on the gas pedal. When the electronic throttle control is faulty, the engine may stall, there may be a racing idle, or the engine may run rough. Driving under these conditions is dangerous and the light should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible by a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Noise from driver's side tire.
Hello, Locating and diagnosing a noise is a hands on operation. You will need the aid of mechanic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-making-a-noise-inspection), such as one from YourMechanic, in this case since there are too many variable to make a recommendation.
The car cranks a lot, turns off while idling, gas smell in the car
You need to have the fuel injection checked to see if the system has a fuel injection leak or a pressure regulator leaking. The fuel system, including the filter and pump lines, needs checking to see why you are smelling...
When turning on navigation system, radio comes on too
This is a problem inside the nav/radio unit. The system will have to be tested and serviced by a dealer certified repair facility. You may have to have it removed and sent out for repair or replacement.
Service AdvanceTrac Warning
Hi, thanks for writing in. This is a known issue in the Ford F150 that is usually caused by the steering column control module going bad (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-power-steering-control-unit). This is what controls this and can be purchased for around $60. If...
Won't stay running
Hello, thanks for writing in. If the vehicle was just in an accident then the air bag module will most likely need to be replaced. If the air bags deployed then it is common for this to occur. The module...
My rpm gauge is jumping while car is not runnig
The issues you are having are going to need further testing. You will want to have your vehicle scanned for diagnostic troubleshooting codes. If a code has been triggered you will have a better idea if your issue is sensor...
When should you replace the brake and transmission fluids?
Different manufacturers have different recommended service intervals for their vehicles. Recommendations for fluids (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-check-car-fluids-by-randy-bobzien) can usually be found in the vehicle owner's manual. At minimum, the manufacturer recommendations should be followed. That's not to say doing some maintenance items a...
Bad computer in a jeep grand cherokee
I would not take anyone's word on the problem and look into it further. Find out why they did not get it replaced to sell the vehicle? If you decide you want to chance purchasing it then get pricing first...
How can I tell if the problem I have is with the master or slave clutch cylinder? 2008 VW Eos
Hello, thank you for writing in. Your question cannot be technically answered at this point in time. With your symptoms, it could be either the slave or the master cylinder. The clutch master cylinder is more commonly a problem, but...

Related articles

What Does the Attention Assist Warning Light Mean?
The Attention Assist warning light turns on when the Attention Assist system suspects you may need a break from driving.
What Does the Hybrid Drive System Malfunction Warning Light Mean?
The hybrid drive system malfunction light turns on when an issue is detected with the system. It could be due to problem with the battery or a fuse.
What Does the Winter Mode Indicator Light Mean?
The winter mode indicator lets you now when you're driving on winter mode. If it's flashing, an error with the system has been detected.