Car lights & visibility
Every lamp on your car, explained: headlights, daytime running lights, indicators, brake, tail, reverse, fog and plate lamps. Tap the interactive diagram, learn the bulb types, and run a two-minute walk-around check.
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Why light maintenance matters
Your lights are your only way to be seen and the road’s only illumination at night. A single dead bulb can make you invisible in rain, fog or darkness, and is a common reason for roadside stops and failed inspections.
- A two-minute walk-around check every week prevents most problems.
- Replace bulbs in pairs — the other side is usually near the end of its life.
- Never touch the glass of a new bulb with your fingers; oil makes it fail quickly.
- Cloudy lenses cut up to 50% of light output — clean or restore them.
A quick fault-finder
One light not working
Most likely a bulb (or its socket). Swap the bulb with the working side to confirm, check the fuse, then the relay and wiring.
Both sides dead
A fuse or relay is the usual cause — or the switch (brake switch, reverse switch). Check the fuse box first.
Fast-flashing indicator
Classic sign of one bulb burned out on that side. Check the bulb, then the flasher relay if both are fine.
Dim headlights
Faded lenses, old bulbs or a weak charging system. Clean the lens, test voltage at the bulb, and check the battery.