How do you turn on the headlights on a Honda Civic?
You turn on the headlights with the vehicle’s headlight control, which is either a left-side stalk or a dash-mounted knob. In most modern Civics you can select Auto, Parking Lights, or Headlights, and push the stalk forward for high beams.
Two common setups exist across Civic generations: stalk-based controls on most newer models, and dash-mounted knobs on some trims. The steps below cover both layouts and how to use high beams.
Headlight control configurations
Two common setups exist across Civic generations: stalk-based controls on most newer models, and dash-mounted knobs on some trims. The steps below cover both layouts and how to use high beams.
Stalk-based headlight controls (most newer Civics)
Use the left-side stalk to switch modes and activate high beams. The end of the stalk usually contains a small dial or ring with several positions.
- Locate the headlight control on the end of the left-hand turn signal stalk (near the steering column).
- Turn the dial to Auto to enable automatic headlights, if your model supports this feature.
- Turn the dial to the headlights symbol (or "On") to manually turn on low beams; some Civics label this position as "Headlights."
- Push the stalk away from you to engage high beams; pull it back toward you to switch back to low beams.
- To flash the high beams briefly, pull the stalk toward you and release.
- If your car has fog lights, ensure the headlights are on and use the separate fog-light control when needed (usually a nearby button or ring).
Note: On some trims, Auto mode is the default when the engine is running, and DRL may operate independently. If in doubt, consult the owner's manual for your exact Civic year and trim.
Dash-mounted headlight controls (older or some trims)
Some Civics use a dash-mounted dial near the left side of the instrument panel instead of a stalk control.
- Find the round headlight/dimmer knob on the dash near the steering column.
- Rotate the knob to the headlight symbol to turn on low beams; select Auto if available to let the system manage headlights automatically.
- For high beams, use the left stalk as described above (push forward to activate high beams, pull back to low beams, or flash-to-pass by a quick tug).
- Turn the knob back to Off to switch off all exterior lighting when not needed.
- Fog lights: If your trim includes fog lights, use the dedicated control after the headlights are on.
Pro tip: If your Civic looks different from these descriptions, your generation may fall outside these two common setups. A quick check of the owner's manual or a visit to Honda's support site for your exact model year will confirm the correct controls.
High beams and related lighting features
Beyond turning on the low beams, most Civics support high-beam operation and often automatic high beams on some trims. Use the stalk as described to activate high beams, and remember to switch them off when other drivers are nearby.
Quick recap: In most Civics, headlight operation comes down to one or two controls—either a stalk with an end dial or a dash-mounted knob. Set Auto for automatic illumination when appropriate, or manually select Headlights for low beams, then use the stalk to manage high beams as needed.
Summary
The method to turn on Honda Civic headlights varies by model year and trim, but the general approach is consistent: locate the headlight control (stalk or dash knob), choose Auto or Headlights for low beams, and use the stalk to engage high beams. When in doubt, check the owner's manual for your exact Civic generation.
