How do you turn your headlights on?
Most vehicles turn on headlights using a steering-column stalk, a dashboard rotary dial, or a dedicated headlight button. In many modern cars, headlights also switch on automatically when ambient light is low.
Understanding your car’s headlights controls helps you stay safe at night and in bad weather. This guide covers the most common methods, how to use them, and what to expect with automatic lighting features across different vehicle types.
Headlight control methods
Stalk-based controls
To activate headlights using the steering-column stalk, which is common on many sedans and SUVs, follow these steps.
- Locate the headlight stalk on the left side of the steering column; look for icons resembling a light beam.
- Set the control to Auto, Parking lights, or Low beams by turning the end of the stalk or rotating a small dial, depending on your model.
- Activate high beams by pushing the stalk away from you (or pulling toward you in some models); you can flash by a quick pull toward you and release.
- If your car has an Auto setting, enable it to let the system manage headlights automatically as lighting conditions change.
Stalk controls are common across a wide range of vehicles, from older sedans to newer SUVs, and they often include an Auto option for convenience.
Dashboard dial controls
Some cars use a rotary headlight dial on the dashboard or center console to control lighting. This method is common in many European models and some U.S. vehicles.
- Find the headlight dial, typically located near the instrument cluster or on the center console.
- Turn the dial to Auto for automatic activation, or to the Low beam position for manual operation; some cars require passing through the Parking lights position to reach Low Beams.
- Be aware that some dials include separate fog-light settings that work in conjunction with the headlights.
- If you can’t read the markings in low light, consult the owner’s manual for the exact positions.
Rotary controls are straightforward and are widely used on newer models, often offering an Auto option for automatic activation.
Push-button and automatic headlights
Push-button or integrated auto-headlight controls are common in many newer cars. Here’s how to use them effectively.
- Look for a circular or square button with a headlight icon, usually on the dash near the steering wheel or near the ignition area.
- Press the button to turn headlights on; some cars cycle through Off, Auto, and On with successive presses.
- Enable Auto headlights if available so the system turns lights on automatically as ambient light fades.
- In cars with auto high beams, the system may switch between high and low beams automatically; you can typically override with the stalk as needed.
Push-button and auto headlight setups are common in newer vehicles and offer convenience, but you should still verify lights are on in low visibility conditions and adjust as needed.
Automatic headlights and safety features
Many modern cars include automatic headlights that turn on when the ambient light drops, using sensors mounted near the windshield or in the front of the vehicle. Some systems also manage high beams automatically. Dirt, frost, or bright sunlight can affect sensor performance, so it’s wise to periodically test and maintain the lighting system and consult the owner’s manual for model-specific details.
Summary
Headlights can be activated in three common ways: via a steering-column stalk, a dashboard dial, or a dedicated push-button. Many newer cars offer Auto headlights that enable automatic activation based on light levels, and some include automatic high-beam features. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s exact controls, test them in safe conditions, and consult the owner’s manual if anything seems unclear. Always ensure headlights are on when visibility is reduced, such as at dusk, in rain, fog, or nighttime driving.
