
Car small light: Position light, mainly provides a signal to other vehicles about the width of the car (belongs to the signal light category). Tail light: The tail light includes many lights, such as the brake light, which provides a signal to the following vehicle to slow down or stop (belongs to the signal light category). Reverse light: Provides a signal to the following vehicle indicating reverse movement, and also serves as illumination for reversing at night (belongs to the signal light and illumination light category). Rear fog light: Used in conditions of poor visibility (fog lights have strong penetration capability, belongs to the signal light category). Turn signal light: As the name suggests, it provides a signal for turning (belongs to the signal light category). Side light is the turn signal light.

I've been driving small trucks for cargo transport for decades, learning the ropes through thick and thin, and I know all about those taillights. The four taillights at the rear of a vehicle aren't randomly installed—each has its own role: the position lights stay on at night, letting vehicles behind recognize your location from afar; the brake lights instantly turn red when you press the pedal, warning trailing cars to avoid rear-end collisions; the turn signals flash when you steer, indicating left or right turns; and the reverse lights shine white when you shift into reverse, preventing you from backing over things. These four work in perfect harmony, like old partners ensuring safety. On long-haul drives, I check them every other month—cleaning dust off the lens covers, replacing burnt-out bulbs promptly. Otherwise, like that time on a rainy night when my brake lights failed on the highway, the car behind nearly rear-ended me. When driving, lights on mean peace of mind, especially on mountain roads where they guide the way. Don't skimp on these small details and risk bigger troubles—just sharing some solid advice from an old-timer.

As a car repair enthusiast who has disassembled numerous taillight systems, I can elaborate on these four major components. Typically, a vehicle's rear is equipped with four types of lights: First, the position light, also known as the marker light, remains constantly illuminated at night to indicate the vehicle's presence. Second, the brake light, which activates with a high-intensity red glow when the brake is pressed, serving as a hazard warning. Third, the turn signal, which flashes yellow when engaged, indicating a change in direction. Fourth, the reverse light, which illuminates white when reversing, providing both illumination and warning. Physically, they are often grouped into left and right sets sharing a single housing, but their functions remain independent. Color usage is also deliberate—red for stopping and orange for movement, to avoid confusion. Nowadays, LED lights are popular for their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and impressive brightness. I recommend regularly cleaning the light housing and connectors to prevent rust or aging that could lead to short circuits. If any light stops working, checking the fuse or replacing the bulb can usually solve the issue. Don't let it escalate into a major problem—driving at night with faulty lights turns you into a road hazard. Safety is all about the small attentions you accumulate daily.

I just passed my driving test a year ago, and during the driving lessons, the instructor repeatedly emphasized the division of labor among the taillights. The four lights at the rear of the car each have their own functions: the position lights (also known as parking lights) stay on after turning on the lights at night to indicate the car's position; the brake lights turn red when the brake is pressed to alert the following vehicle to slow down; the turn signals flash when activated before turning to show the direction; and the reverse lights, which are white, illuminate the rear when the car is in reverse gear. Before every drive, I check in the rearview mirror to see if the lights are on, especially at night or in foggy conditions, so I can react in advance when other cars have their lights on. Beginners often overlook these details, but in reality, all signals on the road are communicated through lights—for example, flashing brake lights indicate that someone is braking hard, so you should quickly maintain distance. Understanding the functions of these lights has made me much more confident while driving. Now, every time I wash my car, I also wipe the light covers to prevent dust buildup—it's a small habit I've developed to ensure safety and avoid getting lost.


