Owner's Manual for the vehicle. With a quick reference ... - E38.org

20nIndicator and warning lamps
Technology that monitors itself
Many of the systems of your BMW monitor
themselves automatically, both during
engine starts and while you are driving.
Indicator and warning lamps that
are identified by "●" are tested for
proper functioning whenever the ignition
key is turned. They each light up
once for different periods of time.
If a fault should occur in one of these
systems, the corresponding lamp does
not go out after the engine is started or
it lights up while the vehicle is moving.
You will see how to react to this below.
Red: Stop immediately
Battery charge current ●
The battery is no longer being
charged. There is a malfunction
of the alternator ribbed V-belt or in the
charging circuit of the alternator. Please
contact the nearest BMW center.
If the V-belt is defective, do not
continue driving. The engine could
be damaged due to overheating. If the
ribbed V-belt is defective, increased
steering effort is also required.<
Engine oil pressure ●
Comes on while the engine is
running and the "Stop! ENGINE
OILPRESS" message appears in the
Check Control:
Stop vehicle and switch off engine immediately.
Check level of oil in engine,
top up as required. If oil level is correct:
Please contact the nearest BMW center.
Brake hydraulic system ●
The brake fluid level is too low.
Before driving further, be sure to
read the notes on pages 128 and 147.
Also comes on with the message
"Check brake pads" in the Check Control.
Brake hydraulic system warning
lamp for Canadian models.
Do not continue driving. The engine
could be damaged because
of inadequate lubrication.