What does parking lights symbol mean?

The parking lights symbol on your dashboard indicates that the vehicle's parking lights are currently on. These low-intensity lights are designed to improve visibility when the car is parked or traveling in dim conditions, and they are not a substitute for full headlights.

What parking lights are and when to use them

Parking lights, known in some regions as position lights, are a subdued lighting setting that keeps the car visible without consuming as much energy as full headlights. They are commonly used when a vehicle is parked on a street at night or in other low-visibility situations. They should not be used as a standard lighting mode while driving at normal speeds in poor weather; in such conditions, headlights are typically required.

How the parking lights symbol appears on dashboards

There is no single universal icon. Carmakers use a range of symbols to indicate parking/position lights appear on the instrument cluster. The following shapes are the most common designs you might see:

• A pair of small lamps angled outward, often resembling two headlights flanking a tiny car silhouette.


• A simple pair of light icons with short rays, positioned side by side.


• A circular or rounded light symbol, sometimes with rays, that suggests low-intensity illumination.


• A "P" or similar letter accompanied by a light cue, used by some brands.

In all cases, the illuminated symbol means the parking/position lights are active. If you’re unsure which icon your car uses, consult the owner's manual or the instrument-cluster legend for your model.

Regional and model variations

The term "parking lights" is more common in North America, while "position lights" is often used in Europe. Some modern vehicles automatically engage parking lights in certain low-light situations when the headlights are off. Always verify the correct usage for your jurisdiction and vehicle model in the manual.

How to operate parking lights

To enable parking lights, adjust the light control to the position labeled with the parking-light icon or the word “PARK” (or use the “Auto” setting if your car supports it). The exact method varies by model, so check your owner's manual for the precise steps for your vehicle.

Summary

The parking lights symbol signals that the vehicle’s parking/position lights are on. The icon design can vary by manufacturer, but the meaning is generally the same: low-intensity lighting intended for visibility when parked or traveling in low light. Use them in accordance with local laws and your vehicle’s manual, and switch to full headlights when conditions require greater visibility.

Will parking lights drain the battery?

Yes, parking lights can drain your battery, especially if left on for extended periods, but a healthy battery can typically handle overnight use. The actual impact depends on the battery's age and condition, its capacity, and the current the lights draw. Modern cars sometimes have automatic shut-off features or other systems that consume power even when the car is "off" and might cause a battery drain. 
Factors that influence battery drain

• Battery condition: An older battery with reduced capacity will be drained faster than a new one. 
• Battery capacity: A larger capacity battery can power the lights for a longer time. 
• Power consumption: Newer LED parking lights use less power than older incandescent bulbs, but the total drain still adds up over time. 
• Other systems: Some cars have additional functions like "parking ventilation" or "welcome systems" that can draw power when the car is off, which may lead to a drain over time. 
• Car's charging system: If the car's alternator is working properly, it will recharge the battery while the engine is running, but it won't recharge it when the engine is off. 

This video explains how LED lights can drain your car battery: 1mledlightplanetYouTube · Jan 4, 2022
How to prevent battery drain

• Turn off lights: The simplest solution is to make it a habit to turn off all lights before leaving the car. 
• Check battery health: Have your battery professionally checked regularly to ensure it's in good condition. 
• Consider your battery's age: If your battery is old, be more cautious about leaving any lights on for long periods. 
• Turn off extra features: If your car has a parking ventilation system, or other features that run after the car is off, consider turning them off if you're leaving the car for a while. 

When to use parking lights in car?

Use parking lights when parked in dark or poorly lit areas to make your vehicle visible to other drivers. This is especially important on roads with speed limits over 30 mph, where they are often legally required at night. They are not a substitute for headlights and should not be used when driving unless the vehicle has a disabled headlight, and even then, only in emergencies where other lights are not available, as parking lights are not bright enough to be used for normal driving.
 
When to use parking lights

• When parked on a road with speed limit greater than 30 mph: It is a legal requirement in many places to use them at night to make your vehicle visible. 
• On narrow or poorly lit roads: They help other drivers see your parked car and avoid it. 
• In foggy or low-visibility conditions: They enhance your vehicle's visibility to other drivers, though you should also consider using your headlights and fog lights. 

When NOT to use parking lights

• While driving: Never use parking lights instead of headlights while driving. They are too dim and will not illuminate the road ahead or make your vehicle visible enough to other drivers. 
• When parked in a well-lit area: It is not necessary to use parking lights if there is sufficient lighting. 

Additional tips

• Turn them off when you leave: Be careful not to drain your car battery by leaving them on for too long. If you are parked for an extended period, it may be best to find a well-lit, secure location instead. 
• Know your car's controls: Parking light switches are usually located with your headlight controls. They may be represented by a "P" with three lines, or two D-shaped bulbs shining away from each other. 
• They are not a substitute for hazard lights: Parking lights are different from hazard lights, which are used to signal a problem with the vehicle. 

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Can you drive with parking lights on?

Parking lights are located at the front and back of your vehicles; they are white or amber in the front and red on the back. All of them must be visible for 500 ft. It is never legal to drive with your parking lights on; they are only to be used during parking.

What does the parking lights symbol mean?

The parking lights symbol is usually two small semi-circles facing in opposite directions. Each will likely have three lines coming from them to symbolise light, too. Automatic headlights won't leave parking lights on, as they only control the dipped beams.