How do I turn on the headlights on my Honda Civic?
The headlights on a Honda Civic are controlled from the left side of the steering column. Turn the headlight control to Auto or ON to activate the lights, and use the stalk’s built-in control for high beams. Daytime running lights may stay on by default in many models.
Where to find the headlight controls
In most Civics, the headlight control is on the left-hand side of the steering wheel, using a dial or switch on the end of a stalk. Some older or certain trims may place a circular knob somewhere near the dashboard. The dial typically offers positions such as Off, Parking/Marker Lights, Headlights (On), and Auto (if equipped).
To follow along, locate the control now and prepare to adjust it as described in the steps below.
- Turn the control to Auto to enable automatic headlights that switch on as ambient light changes.
- Turn the control to Headlights (On) if you prefer to manually manage when the lights come on.
- Use Parking Lights if you only want the small lights on when the vehicle is parked or in low-visibility situations without full headlights.
- To turn the lights off, return the control to the Off position (or to Auto if you want automatic behavior when needed).
- For high beams, use the high-beam control on the end of the stalk. The action (push or pull) varies by model; activate High Beams and watch for the HI indicator on the dashboard.
These steps describe the common method across recent Civic generations. If your model year uses a slightly different arrangement, consult your owner’s manual for exact markings.
In addition, note that daytime running lights (DRLs) may stay on or activate automatically even if the headlights are off, depending on the model and trim. If you rely on DRLs, you’ll still need to switch to headlights in dark or poor-visibility conditions.
Troubleshooting: headlights won’t turn on
If your headlights fail to illuminate, try the following steps to diagnose common issues before seeking service.
- Verify the headlight switch position. Make sure it isn’t left in Off and try turning it to Auto or Headlights (On).
- Check the vehicle’s fuses and relays for the headlights. A blown fuse or failed relay can disable the lights; consult the owner’s manual for the exact fuse layout and numbers.
- Inspect the bulbs for burnout. A burned-out bulb will need replacement, and many Civics use standard halogen bulbs with accessible sockets.
- Test for a possible daytime running light issue. If DRLs are on but low or not functioning as expected, the problem could be the sensor or wiring rather than the main headlights.
- If the lights still won’t come on, there may be an electrical fault or a switch issue. Schedule service with a Honda technician or your dealer for a proper diagnosis.
Use this quick checklist to determine whether the problem is simple or more serious.
Always ensure your headlights are functioning before you drive in low-light conditions. Proper lighting improves visibility for you and makes your vehicle more visible to others.
Summary
To turn on your Honda Civic headlights, locate the left-hand headlight control on the steering column and choose Auto for automatic lighting or Headlights (On) for manual control. Use the end-of-stalk control to activate high beams, if needed. If lights fail to operate, check the switch position, fuses, bulbs, and potential DRL behavior, and consult the owner’s manual or a Honda technician for persistent issues.
