Car Lights Checklist (Printable)

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.