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How do I know my fog lights are on?

Fog lights are an important safety feature on many vehicles, helping to improve visibility in low-light or inclement weather conditions. But how can you tell if your fog lights are actually turned on? This article will provide a detailed explanation to help you determine the status of your vehicle's fog lights.


Identifying Fog Light Indicators


The most obvious way to know if your fog lights are on is to look for a dedicated indicator light on your vehicle's dashboard. This indicator light will typically be labeled with an icon that resembles a fog light or the letters "FG". The indicator light should illuminate whenever the fog lights are switched on.


Some vehicles may also have a separate switch or button to control the fog lights, often located on the dashboard or steering column. If this switch is in the "on" position, your fog lights should be activated.


Visually Checking the Fog Lights


If your vehicle doesn't have a dedicated fog light indicator, you can also visually inspect the front of your car to see if the fog lights are illuminated. The fog lights are typically located below the main headlights and will have a distinct, wide beam pattern that is different from the headlights.


You can turn the fog lights on and off to confirm they are working properly. If the fog lights are on, you should be able to see the bright beams shining from the front of your vehicle.


Consulting the Owner's Manual


If you're still unsure about the status of your fog lights, consult your vehicle's owner's manual. The manual will provide detailed instructions on how to operate the fog lights, including the location of any switches or controls. It may also explain any indicator lights or other visual cues that can help you determine if the fog lights are on.


Fog Light Usage Guidelines



  • Only use fog lights in low-visibility conditions, such as fog, rain, or snow. Leaving them on in clear weather can actually reduce visibility for other drivers.

  • Make sure to turn off the fog lights when they are no longer needed. Leaving them on unnecessarily can drain your vehicle's battery.

  • Adjust the aim of your fog lights if they are causing glare for other drivers. Many fog lights can be adjusted up or down to optimize the beam pattern.


By following these tips, you can ensure that you're using your vehicle's fog lights effectively and safely. Remember, properly functioning fog lights can greatly improve your visibility and safety in challenging driving conditions.

Are fog lights on all the time?


Fog lights should only be used in the fog, when visibility drops below 100 metres (328 feet) which is roughly the length of a football pitch, this is stated by the Highway Code (rule 226). Not using your fog lights when appropriate could impact upon the safety of yourself and those around you when driving.



Do fog lights come on automatically?


If your vehicle has automatic lights that come on during a low light level, you may need to manually turn your fog lights on as they don't always do it automatically. The same principle applies to daytime running lights, as a lot of vehicles with this feature won't actually turn on the rear lights.



What does the fog button look like?


Look near the headlight controls for the fog light symbol, which has 3 parallel horizontal lines going through a vertical wavy line. If the control is a button, press it down to turn on the fog lights. If the control has a switch or dial, turn it until it points at the fog light symbol.



What is the symbol for fog lights?


The symbol for the front fog lights (if fitted) is an oval-shaped lamp with three diagonal lines intersected with a wavy vertical line to the left of it. The symbol for the rear fog lights is an oval-shaped lamp with three horizontal lines bisected by a wavy vertical line on its right.



What does the parking light symbol look like?


How to turn on parking lights. In the vast majority of modern cars, you can turn your sidelights on with the same control as your headlights. This is usually a stalk on the steering wheel or a small dial to the side. The parking lights symbol is usually two small semi-circles facing in opposite directions.



How do I turn on my fog lights?


In most cars, they can be switched on using the same stalk as the headlights, or via a button on the dashboard. The symbol for fog lights varies. If the wavy line is to the left of the lamp graphic, those are your front fog lights. If the wavy line is to the right (as above), this activates your rear fog lights.



How do I know if my fog lights are working?


Symptoms Of Faulty Fog Lights

  1. Your Fog Lights Won't Turn On. One of the most common symptoms of faulty fog lights is when they simply won't turn on when activated.
  2. Flickering Or Dim Lights. Another common symptom is if your fog lights are dim or constantly flickering.
  3. The Fuse Is Blown.
  4. We Can Help With Fog Light Issues.



What is the symbol for side lights?


Dashboard symbol
When you turn them on—usually with a twist of one of the indicator stalks or by turning a separate dial—you should see the sidelight symbol light up on your dashboard. This usually consists of two semi-circular type shapes in mirror image, each emitting light beams.



Is it illegal to drive with fog lights on when there is no fog?


You are correct Bob, drivers are not supposed to have their fog lights on at night if there isn't any fog to drive through, but as you see every night, people do it anyway.



Which button is my fog light?


In older vehicles, it is common to find the fog light buttons on your indicator stick, to the left of your steering wheel. In newer vehicles, fog lights are generally controlled via a knob on the panel directly under an air conditioning vent. Using these buttons, you can turn on your fog lights.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.