How do I turn off parking lights?
In most cars, you turn off parking lights by returning the headlight control to Off or by moving the stalk from the parking-light setting back to Off. If your vehicle uses Auto headlights, they may switch off automatically when you turn off the ignition, but some models require a manual adjustment or have a setting that keeps DRLs or parking lights on.
Parking lights are the dim, low-intensity lamps designed to make a parked vehicle visible at night or in low-light conditions. They are distinct from headlights and daytime running lights (DRLs), and the method to disable them varies by make and model. Understanding your particular switch layout will help you extinguish them quickly, and knowing common exceptions can save you battery power and potential fines in some jurisdictions.
Understanding the controls you’ll encounter
Vehicle lighting controls come in several common formats. The following overview helps you identify which method your car uses and how to switch off parking lights accordingly.
Ways to turn off parking lights
Before attempting the following methods, identify which control scheme your car uses. The steps below cover the most widely seen setups:
- Dashboard headlight dial: If your dash has a dial with positions such as Off, Park (Parking), On, and Auto, rotate from the Parking or Park setting to Off to extinguish the parking lights. In some models you may need to push the dial or rotate through a separate “Off” notch.
- Steering-column stalk: Some cars control parking lights with a ring or slider on the end of the stalk. Turn from the Parking (P) position to Off (0) or the standard Off setting. Some systems require returning the stalk to the neutral Off position rather than to Auto.
- Auto DRL/All-in-one switch: Cars with Auto headlights and DRLs may still have a dedicated parking-light position or require switching away from Auto to Off. If DRLs remain on after you set the control to Off, check for a separate DRL-disable option in the menu or a specific “parking lights off” step in the manual.
In most cases, returning the control to Off from the parking-light position will turn off the lights. If your vehicle uses a dedicated Home/Follow-Me-Home lighting feature, a short delay after locking the car may also keep lights on temporarily.
Troubleshooting when parking lights won’t turn off
If the parking lights refuse to switch off after trying the standard controls, consider these common causes and checks:
- Stay-on features: Some vehicles have a “follow me home” or timed parking-light feature that keeps lights on for a short period after ignition off or locking.
- Switch or wiring fault: A faulty headlight switch, stalk, or wiring issue can prevent turning lights off.
- Relay or fuse issue: A stuck relay or related fuse problem can cause lights to remain illuminated.
- DRL settings: In some models, DRLs are separate from parking lights and may not be fully adjustable in all markets; consult the manual for disabling options if available.
If the problem persists, consult your vehicle’s manual for model-specific instructions or contact a dealer or qualified mechanic. Prolonged parking-light operation can drain the battery and may be illegal where required by law in certain situations.
Practical tips and caveats
Always refer to your owner’s manual for exact control layouts, as implementations vary widely by make, model, and market. If you frequently encounter persistent parking-light behavior, consider requesting a diagnostic check to rule out a faulty switch or wiring issue.
Summary
Turning off parking lights typically involves returning the headlight control to Off, or moving the stalk from the parking-light setting to Off. If your car uses Auto headlights, the system may handle it automatically, but some models require manual adjustment or have lingering features like follow-me-home lighting. When in doubt, check the manual or seek professional assistance to ensure proper operation and protect your battery and compliance with local regulations.
Why won't parking lights turn off?
Inspect the light switch. Occasionally, the light switch might be unintentionally left in the ``on'' position, causing the lights to remain illuminated even when the vehicle is turned off. Ensure that the switch is set to the ``off'' or ``auto'' position, and check if the lights turn off.
How do I stop parking lights?
If left on unintentionally, they can drain your battery or potentially confuse other drivers. Here's how you can effectively turn off parking lights, regardless of your car model: Find the Light Controls: Most vehicles have a light control switch on the left side of the steering wheel, either on the stalk or as a dial.
Why are my parking lights always on?
Check the brake switch - there's a switch that gets activated when the brake pedal is depressed. It's more often the case that this switch wears out and fails to activate at all, but it's still plausible that this brake could stay in the on position even when the pedal is not down, which means the lights would stay on.
Where are the controls for parking lights?
Right next to your headlights. On the side of your front bumper. And in the rear. But they're not to be confused with your brake. Lights.
