Which button is the fog light?
There isn’t a universal fog light button — the control location and method vary by vehicle. In most cars, you’ll find a dedicated symbol on the headlight switch, a separate button on the dash, or a control on the steering-column stalk to activate the fog lamps.
Common placements for fog light controls
Fog light controls are arranged in a few typical ways on modern cars. The following configurations cover the most common setups you’ll encounter.
- Headlight control dial: On many vehicles, the fog light control is integrated into the main headlight switch. You rotate the dial to the low-beam or auto position, then either pull outward or press a secondary location on the dial to engage the front fog lights. The symbol on the dial usually shows a headlamp with a few horizontal lines representing fog.
- Separate dashboard or center-console button: Some cars use a distinct button dedicated to fog lights. It’s often labeled with the fog light symbol (a lamp with horizontal lines) and may be grouped with other lighting controls.
- Steering-column stalk control: In certain European models, the fog light control sits on the turn-signal/stalk assembly. You may need to twist the end of the stalk or pull/push a ring to activate the front fog lights.
- Rear fog light control: In many markets, rear fog lights have their own control or share a switch with front fogs. In some cars, activating rear fogs requires an additional press or a separate symbol to indicate the rear function.
If you’re unsure about your particular vehicle, start by looking for the small lamp-with-lines icon on either the headlight dial, a dash button, or the stalk. The owner’s manual will confirm the exact location and procedure for your model.
Understanding the icons and how to use them
Knowing the symbols helps you identify the fog light control quickly, especially when you’re trying to activate them in poor visibility.
- Front fog light icon: Typically a lamp symbol with horizontal lines or a wavy line indicating fog, pointing in the direction the beams exit the lamp. This is the control most drivers use when visibility is low due to fog or heavy rain.
- Rear fog light icon: Similar to the front symbol but often distinguished by a different orientation or additional marks; used to make your vehicle more visible to vehicles approaching from behind in foggy conditions.
- Auto or integrated icons: Some modern cars show an “AUTO” or a combined light icon that includes fog functionality in certain driving modes. In these vehicles, fogs may engage automatically under specific conditions or via the main headlight control.
The exact appearance of the icons can vary by manufacturer and model, but the fog light symbol is usually distinct from the standard headlight icon. If in doubt, refer to the manual or consult a dealer for your specific make and year.
Regional variations you should know
Europe and other markets
In many European vehicles, fog lights are common and are typically used only when visibility is reduced. Front fog lights generally activate when the headlights are on low beam, and some cars require you to switch on the rear fogs separately if weather conditions demand it. The controls may be on the headlight dial, a separate dash button, or the stalk, depending on the brand.
United States and other markets
North American cars show a range of setups. Some models place fog light controls on the dash as a dedicated button, while others integrate them with the headlight switch or stalk. Law and vehicle design vary by region, so it’s important to verify how your specific vehicle handles fog lights. In newer vehicles, you may also encounter digital controls in the instrument cluster or the vehicle’s infotainment system that manage fog lights.
Tip: In all regions, fog lights are generally intended for use in low-visibility conditions such as fog, heavy mist, or severe rain. They are not meant for use in clear conditions and using them improperly can cause glare for other drivers and may be illegal in some jurisdictions.
Summary
The fog light control is not universal. Look for the fog symbol on the headlight switch, a dedicated dash button, or a stalk-mounted control. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual or contact the dealer for your specific model. Remember to use fog lights only when visibility is genuinely reduced, and switch them off when conditions improve to avoid glare for other drivers.
