Learn the 9 essential car light types every Malaysian driver should know — from headlights to hazard lights.
Car lights aren’t just about seeing the road — they’re essential for safety, especially during nighttime driving, heavy rain, or poor visibility. Knowing when and how to use each light could save lives and prevent accidents. Here’s a complete guide to the types of car lights and what they do.
Headlights
Most cars come with two types:
- Low Beam: Used for regular night driving. It lights up the road ahead without blinding oncoming drivers.
- High Beam: Use only on dark, quiet roads when there’s no traffic coming toward you. Avoid using high beams in busy or urban areas.
Taillights
These red lights activate automatically when your headlights are on. They help:
- Let drivers behind you know your vehicle’s position.
- Maintain a safe following distance in the dark.
Brake Light
Brake lights illuminate when you press the brake pedal. They:
- Signal to drivers behind that you’re slowing down or stopping.
- Help reduce the risk of rear-end collisions.
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
These lights turn on automatically when your engine starts. While they don’t activate taillights, they:
- Make your car more visible during the day.
- Are especially helpful in gloomy daylight conditions.
Turn Signal Lights
Turn signals (also called indicators) are crucial when changing direction or lanes. Use them to:
- Alert nearby drivers of your next move.
- Avoid miscommunication and accidents.
Fog Lights
Installed lower than headlights, fog lights are used during:
- Foggy mornings
- Heavy rain or haze
- Low-visibility road conditions
⚠️ They’re brighter than normal lights, so only use them when necessary.
Reverse Light
These white lights turn on automatically when reversing. They:
- Warn others that you’re backing up.
- Help prevent accidents in parking lots or tight spaces.
Hazard Lights
Hazard lights flash both left and right indicators at once. Turn them on when:
- Your car breaks down or is stopped at the roadside.
- You need to warn others of a sudden road hazard.
Interior Lights
Located inside the cabin, they help passengers or drivers look for items when it’s dark.
💡Tip: Don’t leave them on for too long — it can drain your car battery.
🔧 Why It Matters
Many accidents happen due to poor visibility or miscommunication between drivers. By understanding and using your car lights correctly, you’re not only protecting yourself — but also everyone else on the road. Click here to learn more