Position lights, also known as parking lights or sidelights, are designed to make your vehicle visible and indicate its position to other road users. They are essential for your safety and the safety of others. Here’s everything you need to know about position lights: when to use them, whether they can be used alone, when to replace them, and how much it costs to replace them!
💡 When to Use Position Lights?
Position lights primarily serve the purpose of making your vehicle visible to other drivers, but they do not significantly improve your visibility of the road. Indicated by a lit bulb icon on the dashboard, position lights can be turned on using the controls on the stalk. On average, position lights make your vehicle detectable up to 150 meters by other road users. They are mandatory in certain cases and recommended in others. Position lights are generally used for:
- Driving in Well-Lit Cities: It is mandatory to drive with position lights on during the day, even in well-lit cities, to maximize your vehicle’s visibility to other drivers and avoid collisions.
- Daytime and Early Evening Driving: During the day, if visibility conditions are not optimal, you can turn on your position lights. They are also necessary when dusk falls, especially on unlit roads.
- Driving in Rain or Snow: Position lights can be used alone or in conjunction with low beam headlights, depending on the brightness. Additionally, front fog lights can be turned on to enhance your visibility.
It is crucial to be aware of the proper usage of each type of light to avoid fines. Driving without position lights illuminated can result in a fine of $135 and a loss of 3 points on your driver’s license. The misuse of fog lights is also punishable by a $135 fine.
⚠️ Can Position Lights Be Used Alone?
Position lights are rarely used alone. Due to their low brightness, they are usually used in conjunction with low beam headlights (also known as dipped beam or codes). Low beam headlights are the most commonly used lights as they provide optimal illumination of the road and make your vehicle visible up to 30 meters on all types of roads.
However, there are two situations where position lights alone can be used. Firstly, when driving in a well-lit city during the day and early evening, you can use position lights alone. Only when it gets significantly darker at night should you supplement the position lights with low beam headlights.
Secondly, position lights can be used alone in light rain during daylight hours. However, depending on the lighting conditions, it is advisable to supplement them with low beam headlights.
🗓️ When to Replace Position Lights?
Position light bulbs do not have a specific replacement interval. Their lifespan primarily depends on how frequently you use them, based on your regular driving and use of position lights.
As a general rule, it is recommended to check your lights when you start your vehicle at night. A quick glance will help you determine if any of the bulbs are burnt out. If you are comfortable with mechanical and electrical work, you can purchase new bulbs and replace them yourself. Otherwise, you can seek professional assistance at a garage to perform the replacement.
💰 What Is the Cost of Replacing Position Lights?
The cost of replacing position lights is not excessive. Depending on your vehicle model and the type of bulb required, the intervention will cost between $30 and $50. On average, a new position light bulb costs between $5 and $20, depending on the model. This price includes the cost of labor for the replacement. Choosing a professional at a garage has the added advantage of adjusting your headlights during the process.
Position lights are particularly useful for vehicles driving in urban areas. Regularly checking them is essential to ensure your visibility on the road and the safety of other road users. Do not overlook the inspection of your lights and perform it regularly to ensure your safety while driving your vehicle!
