How do I know if I have adaptive headlights?
Adaptive headlights are an advanced lighting system that adjusts the beam direction and intensity as you drive. To know if your vehicle has them, check the owner's manual or window sticker, look for badges such as AFS or Matrix LED, and observe how the lights respond to steering and speed at night.
What adaptive headlights are and how they work
Adaptive headlights, also known as adaptive front-lighting systems (AFS) or LED matrix systems, vary their illumination based on steering input, speed, slope, and sometimes weather or traffic. They may swivel the beam to illuminate curves, adjust brightness to reduce glare for oncoming drivers, or selectively light up specific zones of the road using multiple LEDs. Different brands use different names and configurations, but the underlying goal is the same: improve nighttime visibility and safety.
Practical signs you have adaptive headlights
Use this quick checklist to identify features on your vehicle without needing a diagnostic tool.
Brand and terminology you might see
Look for labels or badges such as "AFS," "Adaptive Headlights," "Matrix LED," "Dynamic Light System," or similar terminology on the headlight housing, in the grille area, or in the vehicle documentation.
- Exterior badge near the headlight or on the grille indicating adaptive lighting features (e.g., AFS, Matrix LED, Intelligent Light System).
- Infotainment or instrument cluster menus listing options like "Adaptive Headlights," "AFS," "Matrix LED," or "Dynamic Lighting."
- Headlights that visibly move or sweep when you turn the steering wheel, especially at slower speeds or entering/exiting corners.
- Automatic high beams that adjust around other vehicles, often described as "Auto High Beam" with adaptive capabilities.
- Headlight assemblies with multiple LEDs or a segmented matrix pattern within the lens.
- Documentation (manual, window sticker, or brochure) referencing adaptive lighting or dynamic front lighting.
Seeing one or more of these indicators strongly suggests your car has adaptive headlights. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or contact the dealer for confirmation.
How to confirm for your specific vehicle
To obtain a definitive answer for your exact model and year, follow these steps with official sources and your VIN where possible.
- Check the owner's manual for a headlights section that mentions "adaptive," "AFS," or "Matrix LED."
- Review the window sticker (for new cars) or dealer listing to see if adaptive headlights are listed as a feature.
- Explore the vehicle’s settings menu (Lighting, Vehicle, or Driver Assistance) for options named "Adaptive Headlights," "AFS," "Matrix LED," "Dynamic Lighting," or similar terms.
- Use the vehicle identification number (VIN) to verify features on the manufacturer's site or via a dealership, which can confirm whether adaptive headlights are included.
- Request a demonstration from a dealer or review a test-drive video to see the system in action on a model similar to yours.
These steps provide a definitive answer for your exact model and production year, helping you understand what your car can do and how to use it safely.
Safety notes and limitations
Adaptive headlights improve illumination around curves and obstacles, but they are not a substitute for attentive driving. Performance can be reduced in heavy rain, snow, fog, or glare from oncoming headlights, and some systems only operate at certain speeds or conditions.
Summary
Adaptive headlights come in several configurations, including adaptive front-lighting and LED matrix systems. Common indicators include badges, documentation, and visible beam adaptation when turning or changing speed. For a definitive answer, check the owner’s manual, window sticker, and, if needed, confirm with the dealer using your VIN. By understanding these features, you can better appreciate how your vehicle’s lighting works and use it safely on night drives.
How to activate adaptive headlights?
Screen while in park select settings vehicle lighting adaptive headlamps then slide the button to turn it on or off. Or just turn the headlamp control switch to the headlamps.
How do I find out what type of headlights I have?
You can determine your headlight type by looking at the color and speed of the light, checking the car's manual or VIN, or inspecting the bulb itself once it's removed. Halogen lights are yellowish and turn on instantly, HID (High-Intensity Discharge) lights are bright white-blue and have a slight delay to warm up, and LED lights are a bright white and turn on instantly with no delay.
You can watch this video to learn how to identify different types of headlights: 37sCarParts.comYouTube · Nov 8, 2024
Method 1: Check the light's appearance and behavior
- Halogen: Yellowish-white light that turns on instantly.
- HID (or Xenon): Bright white light with a bluish tint that takes a few seconds to reach full brightness.
- LED: Very bright white light that turns on instantly with no warm-up time.
Method 2: Consult your vehicle's information
- Vehicle manual: Check your car's owner's manual for specific details on the lighting system.
- VIN number: Contact your dealership with your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to get information directly from the manufacturer.
Method 3: Inspect the bulb (if you are comfortable removing it)
- Check for markings: Look for a bulb number (like H7, 9006, or H11) printed directly on the bulb or its housing.
- Examine the bulb: Halogen bulbs have a distinctive look with a filament, while HID bulbs are different and can sometimes be seen with a glass capsule.
- Note: LEDs are often not removable and require replacing the entire assembly.
This video demonstrates how to check for markings on the headlight housing: 54sHelpful DIYYouTube · Oct 5, 2024
What makes a headlight adaptive?
Adaptive headlights use cameras, radar, lidar, and light sensors, along with weather, speed, and steering information, to actively respond to changing situations.
Which car models have adaptive headlights?
Many recent car models, including luxury and mainstream vehicles, now offer adaptive driving beam headlights, a system that automatically adjusts the high beams to avoid dazzling other drivers while maximizing illumination. Examples include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Tesla Model 3, and newer models like the Rivian R1S and R1T. Automakers such as Porsche, Volvo, Ford, and Subaru also feature adaptive lighting on many of their cars, often as an available option or standard on higher trims.
You can watch this video to see how adaptive driving beam headlights work on a Tesla Model Y: 56sGo Green AutosYouTube · Apr 1, 2024
Examples of cars with adaptive driving beam headlights
- Audi: Many models, including the Audi A6, feature adaptive lighting, sometimes called Audi Matrix LED headlights.
- BMW: The BMW 5 Series has standard adaptive headlights, and the technology is available on other models in the lineup.
- Ford: Adaptive headlights are available on various models, even some entry-level ones.
- Hyundai: Features this technology on both mainstream and some hybrid models.
- Jaguar: Models like the 2018 Jaguar E-PACE are listed as having adaptive headlights.
- Lexus: The Lexus LS is an example of a vehicle that offers this feature.
- Mazda: Includes this technology on models such as the Mazda CX-5 and CX-30.
- Mercedes-Benz: The E-Class is one example of a Mercedes model with adaptive headlights.
- Rivian: The Rivian R1S and R1T are among the newer vehicles to offer adaptive driving beams.
- Subaru: Adaptive headlights are included in various models, sometimes called Subaru Steering Responsive Headlights.
- Tesla: The Tesla Model 3 and the updated Model Y are equipped with adaptive driving beam headlights.
- Toyota: The Toyota Camry is an example of a model that offers adaptive headlights.
- Volkswagen: Certain models have this feature, sometimes called Dynamic Light Assist.
- Volvo: Volvo is a manufacturer that includes adaptive headlights, known as Volvo's Adaptive LED headlights, on many of its vehicles.
