Fog Lights

Fog lights - Frequently asked questions and answers

What are fog lights?

Fog lights, or fog lamps, are lights that are not shielded on the car. They therefore shine very brightly, and are used in particularly poor visibility conditions - such as fog.

How do you turn on fog lights?

Fog lights are switched on using a switch on the dashboard. On most cars, a light will come on to indicate that the fog lights are on.

What is the fog light symbol?

Exactly what the fog light symbol looks like varies between car manufacturers, but they are often similar. In general, the fog light symbol looks like a thick "D" with slanted lines through which a wave passes.

When should you use fog lights?

Fog lights may be used when the weather is so bad that it is difficult to see, such as in foggy conditions or if it is raining very heavily. Remember that fog lights should be aimed slightly downwards so as not to blind other drivers. It is illegal to have your fog lights and dipped headlights on at the same time.

Why can't you have your dipped headlights and your fog lights on at the same time?

This is to avoid blinding other road users.

What does it mean if a lamp is E-marked?

In short, it means that the lamp is approved for use in Europe. Different lamps and headlamps have different E-marks. Front fog lamps have the ECE R19 E-mark, and rear fog lamps have the ECE R38 E-mark.

General Information

Fog lights are an essential part of a car's lighting system and serve specific functions for increased safety and visibility under particular conditions. These lights are mounted on the front and sometimes the rear of the vehicle and are primarily used in poor visibility conditions, such as fog, rain, or snowfall. When considering fog lights, there are several factors to keep in mind.

Purpose and Laws: Fog lights are used to enhance visibility in adverse weather conditions. It's essential to be aware of the laws in your jurisdiction, as the use of fog lights may be regulated. In some areas, only front fog lights are permitted, while others allow both front and rear fog lights.

Installation: If your car doesn't come with built-in fog lights, they can often be installed as aftermarket products. It's crucial to choose compatible models that are of high quality and easy to mount. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper connection and adjustment.

Light Intensity and Color Temperature: Fog lights are usually less intense than the main headlights and have a different color temperature that provides better visibility in fog. Choose lights with an appropriate intensity and color temperature to avoid blinding other drivers.

Different Models: The market offers various types of fog lights, including traditional halogen bulbs and more modern LED versions. LED fog lights are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than halogen bulbs, but they might come at a higher cost.

For optimal results, it's crucial to select high-quality fog lights that meet your requirements and needs. By staying informed about laws and regulations and consulting with experts during installation and product selection, you can ensure that your fog lights enhance your safety and visibility on the road during challenging weather conditions.