Car Lights Checklist
A comprehensive guide to inspecting your vehicle's lighting systems, ensuring safety, visibility, and legal compliance for every drive.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A full lighting inspection typically takes 15 to 30 minutes for a DIYer. If you choose to have a professional shop perform the check, it is often included in a multi-point inspection during an oil change. This process ensures that every signal your car sends to the world is clear and accurate.
Maintaining your lights is one of the most cost-effective ways to keep your vehicle road-legal and safe. Most issues found during this check are simple bulb failures, though occasionally you may discover blown fuses or oxidized lenses that require more attention.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Beam Headlights | Required | DIY | 2 min | Both sides illuminate; even brightness | Replace bulb or check fuse |
| High Beam Headlights | Required | DIY | 2 min | Both sides illuminate; significantly brighter | Replace bulb or check relay |
| Front Turn Signals | Required | DIY | 2 min | Amber light flashes at steady rhythm | Replace bulb; check for fast-blink |
| Rear Turn Signals | Required | DIY | 2 min | Flashes clearly; no water in housing | Replace bulb or clean socket |
| Brake Lights (Left/Right) | Required | DIY | 3 min | Instant illumination when pedal pressed | Replace bulb or brake switch |
| Center High Mount Stop Light | Required | DIY | 2 min | Third light activates with brakes | Replace LED strip or bulb |
| Parking/Running Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | Dim glow active when first notch turned | Replace small marker bulbs |
| Reverse/Backup Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | White lights activate in Reverse gear | Replace bulb or check reverse switch |
| License Plate Lights | Required | DIY | 3 min | Plate is clearly visible at night | Replace small 168/194 bulbs |
| Hazard Flashers | Required | DIY | 2 min | All four corners flash simultaneously | Check hazard flasher relay |
| Dashboard Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 1 min | All icons light up at startup then go out | Scan for OBD-II codes |
| Instrument Cluster Backlight | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | Gauges are readable in the dark | Check dimmer switch or fuse |
| Interior Map/Dome Lights | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Lights turn on with door or switch | Replace interior bulbs |
| Fog Lights (if equipped) | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Low, wide beam illuminates below bumper | Replace bulb or check switch |
| Side Marker Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | Visible from the side of the vehicle | Replace bulb |
| Daytime Running Lights (DRL) | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Lights active while driving in daylight | Check DRL module or settings |
| Headlight Lens Clarity | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Lenses are clear, not yellow or hazy | Use a restoration kit |
| Tail Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | Red glow active with headlights on | Replace dual-filament bulb |
Use this table to systematically walk around your vehicle. It is best to perform this check once a month or before any long road trip to avoid safety risks.
If you find multiple lights out simultaneously, check the fuse box before buying new bulbs. If a new bulb doesn't work, inspect the socket for corrosion or heat damage.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Keeping a log of when bulbs were replaced can help you identify recurring electrical surges or moisture leaks in your light housings.
- Never touch the glass of a halogen bulb with bare fingers.
- Check for moisture or condensation inside lenses, which indicates a failed seal.
- Apply dielectric grease to sockets to prevent corrosion in salty or wet climates.
- Ensure your headlights are properly aimed so you don't blind oncoming traffic.
- Clean your lenses every time you wash the car to maintain maximum light output.
- Keep a spare set of common bulbs (like 1157 or 194) in your glovebox.
- If a fuse blows immediately after replacement, you have a short circuit that needs professional repair.
- Verify that 'Auto' light sensors on the dashboard are not covered by papers or dust.
- Check that your trailer light plug is clean if you tow frequently.
- Browse similar checklists in our Inspection and Maintenance sections.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.