How to Use High and Low Beams?

[Cox]

The control for high and low beams is located on the left-hand stalk of the steering wheel. Pushing it to the middle position activates the low beams, while pushing it to the first or third position activates the high beams. The differences between high and low beams are as follows: 1. The main difference between high and low beams is the distance they illuminate: High beams and low beams both serve to light up the road ahead, but high beams illuminate farther than low beams. Typically, low beams cover a distance of about 30-40 meters with a range of approximately 160°, while high beams focus the light more intensely, providing a brighter and longer illumination. 2. High beams can be used in areas without streetlights: When driving on highways or in rural areas without streetlights, high beams can be used to expand the field of vision. 3. Switch to low beams when encountering oncoming traffic or when close to a vehicle ahead: While driving, you should immediately switch from high beams to low beams in the following situations: first, when there is oncoming traffic; second, when you are close to a vehicle traveling in the same direction; third, when the road is already sufficiently lit; and fourth, when entering busy streets.

[HavenAnn]

There's actually a proper way to use high and low beams. The light control stalk is on the left side of the steering wheel - push it forward for high beams (indicated by a blue dashboard icon), and pull it toward you to flash lights as a warning. In urban areas at night, low beams are sufficient (using high beams may be considered rude). On highways without streetlights, high beams can improve visibility, but you must immediately switch back to low beams when encountering oncoming traffic. Forgetting to turn off high beams during encounters is particularly dangerous as it can blind other drivers. Low beams have better penetration in rain, while fog lights should be used in foggy conditions. Some vehicles feature automatic high/low beam switching, but manual operation is most reliable. Remember: Always check the light stalk position before driving to avoid mistakes.

[VanKevin]

What annoys me most while driving is others misusing high beams. Here's how to use them properly: Push the left stalk forward one notch to engage permanent high beams, or pull it briefly to flash them (the flashing action should be quick). In well-lit urban areas at night, high beams aren't necessary. On highways, high beams help spot road signs and obstacles earlier. Always check your dashboard indicators - a blue light signals active high beams. You must switch back to low beams 150 meters before meeting oncoming traffic, as high beams can dangerously blind other drivers. After rain, road surfaces reflect more light, making low beams safer; on mountain curves, switch to low beams in advance to avoid glare. Improper light usage may result in traffic police penalties and compromises road safety.

[SanRhett]

The high and low beam switch is mainly controlled by the left-hand stalk on the steering wheel. Push the stalk forward to keep the high beams on continuously, and pull it backward for a quick flash reminder. High beams are suitable for unlit road sections, but you must switch back to low beams when encountering oncoming traffic—otherwise, the blinding glare could cause the other driver to collide with you. Tunnel entrances and exits have drastic lighting changes, making timely beam switching crucial. If you've modified your headlights, pay extra attention to their height—factory lights that aren't angled properly and shine into others' eyes will earn you curses. Even with automatic headlights, don't rely entirely on the system; manual switching is more precise. Veteran tip: Frequently check dashboard light indicators and develop the habit of switching beams 200 meters before meeting oncoming traffic.

[HaileyRose]

Pushing the light lever all the way toward the front of the car and latching it turns on the high beams, while pulling it toward yourself activates the flash-to-pass function. Using high beams on highways extends visibility by over 50 meters, but you must switch to low beams when following another vehicle to avoid blinding them through their rearview mirror. Flashing lights is more effective than honking when electric bikes suddenly dart out on urban or rural roads. For those upgrading to xenon or laser headlights: color temperatures exceeding 6000K may violate regulations, and improper beam alignment can make you a road menace. A common rookie mistake is driving with high beams on while thinking they're low beams - checking the blue headlight icon on the dashboard prevents this.

[StAriana]

Years of driving experience summarized: High beams are suitable for highways and unlit rural roads, and you can feel a distinct click when pushing the stalk. Flashing should be done quickly; holding it for too long can burn out the relay. Avoid using high beams in fog—the reflected light reduces visibility. Don’t retaliate against drivers with high beams; slowing down and staying to the right is safest. Many cars now come with ADB (Adaptive Driving Beam) smart headlights that automatically shield oncoming vehicles, but manual operation remains a fundamental skill. Forgetting to turn off high beams may result in fines—Shanghai explicitly penalizes misuse. It’s advisable to check your lights before every drive. Developing good lighting habits ensures both safety and courtesy.