Parking lights, often called sidelights or marker lights, are low-intensity lights on the corners of a vehicle designed to increase its visibility to other drivers when parked or driving in low-light conditions. They are not for illuminating the road ahead but for making your car seen. In the U.S., they are legally required on all motor vehicles.
Their primary function is safety. When used while parked on a dimly lit road, they signal your vehicle's presence and dimensions to oncoming traffic, reducing the chance of a collision. Some drivers also use them in conjunction with headlights during dawn, dusk, or poor weather like heavy rain or fog to provide an extra layer of visibility without the glare of full headlights.
Modern cars often integrate parking lights into the same housing as the turn signals and headlights. They are typically activated by a separate setting on the headlight control stalk or dial, often marked with a symbol of two small, facing lights. It's important not to confuse them with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), which are automatic and designed for daytime use. Leaving your parking lights on accidentally after parking can drain the car's battery, as they do not turn off automatically on most models.
The specifications for parking lights, including their color (amber front and red rear) and luminosity, are defined by safety standards like the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 108. The table below outlines common technical and regulatory details.
| Feature | Specification | Notes |
|---|
| Primary Function | Vehicle conspicuity when parked or in low visibility | Not for road illumination |
| Front Light Color | Amber or White | Varies by vehicle design and region |
| Rear Light Color | Red | Integrated with the tail light assembly |
| Common Activation | Separate setting on headlight stalk/dial | Symbol: two small, opposing lights |
| Legal Basis (USA) | FMVSS 108 | Mandatory for all on-road vehicles |
| Typical Bulb Type | LED or Incandescent (W5W / 194 bulb common) | LEDs are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting |
| Power Consumption | Low (approx. 5-10 watts per bulb) | Prolonged use can still drain battery |
| Key Difference from DRLs | Manually activated | DRLs are automatic with the engine running |
