Can Adding Fog Lights Pass the Annual Inspection?
2 Answers
Adding fog lights can pass the annual inspection. Here are the specific details about fog lights: Precautions for adding fog lights: When visibility drops below 100 meters, fog lights must be turned on, and speed should be reduced. If visibility is below 30 meters, turn on the fog lights, pull over, and activate the hazard warning lights. In conditions of rain, fog, snow, or dust, fog lights should be turned on and speed reduced. Installation method for fog lights: Fog lights are installed below the bumper, closest to the ground, to maximize their effectiveness. If installed too high, the light may not penetrate the rain or fog to illuminate the road surface, making it dangerous as fog is thinner below 1 meter. Operation of fog lights: The fog light switch has three positions: 0 for off, 1 for front fog lights, and 2 for rear fog lights. Before use, it is recommended to know which position the switch is in to ensure convenience for yourself and safety for others. Classification of fog lights: Fog lights are divided into front and rear fog lights. In China, rear fog lights are mandatory for all vehicles, while front fog lights are not strictly required. Front fog lights are less useful, as low beams or contour lights can fully substitute for them. Therefore, to save costs, some car manufacturers may omit front fog lights.
As an average car owner, I successfully passed the annual inspection after installing fog lights on my car the year before last. The key is that the installation must comply with regulations—the positioning should be moderate, neither too high nor too low, to avoid light interference with others. The color is typically required to be white or amber; using red or blue randomly is prohibited. The lights must be connected to the vehicle's switch and cannot operate independently. I also researched local regulations: in most cities, if the fog lights are not original factory accessories but meet national standards, they generally pass inspection without issues. However, avoid reckless modifications, such as exposed wiring or excessive brightness, as these can easily lead to rejection. Using fog lights in rainy or foggy conditions indeed enhances safety, providing clearer visibility and reducing accident risks. Before installation, it's advisable to consult a knowledgeable auto repair friend or shop to ensure everything is compliant. The annual inspection mainly checks whether the lighting meets standards, so don’t worry excessively—just be thorough.
