How to check your lights and bulbs
Watch RAC Patrol Ben Aldous demonstrate how to check the lights on your car, and show you what to do if any are faulty.
It's much easier check your lights if you get somebody to help you out, but it's possible to use the reflection on walls or other cars to get a rough idea of what's working.
First, turn on the ignition to first position. You may need the engine running for the lights to work. Then run through this sequence:
- Side lights
- Dipped beams
- Main beam
- Fog lights
- Front indicators, left and right
- Brake lights
- Reversing lights
- Rear indicators, left and right
- Hazard lights
If any of your lights aren't working properly make sure you have them replaced immediately.
If you experience car faults, warnings or failures, find a local mechanic across the UK.
Check car lights video
Are you experiencing a car fault, warning, or mechanical problem on your road trip? Find a local mechanic with the RAC.
Roadside cover from £5.29 a month*
• FREE MOT on selected cover – worth up to £55†
• We get to most breakdowns in 60 mins or less
• Our patrols fix 4/5 breakdowns
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). †T&Cs apply.
*At least 10% of new customers pay this for single-vehicle Roadside (Basic). †T&Cs apply.
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