What are the levers below the steering wheel called?
1 Answers
The lever on the left side below the steering wheel is called the light control stalk, and the one on the right is called the wiper stalk. The functions of the left stalk are as follows: pushing it upward activates the right turn signal, pulling it downward activates the left turn signal, turning it to the first notch switches on the parking lights, turning it to the second notch switches on the headlights, and pulling it up activates the headlight flasher. The right stalk, when pulled downward, turns on the wiper function, which is used in rainy conditions or when the windshield is unclear. The wiper has three modes: high, medium, and low, all adjustable via the stalk. There is also a button on the stalk for windshield washer fluid. When using the light control stalk, the following precautions should be observed: During nighttime driving when streetlights are on, or in low visibility conditions such as fog, rain, snow, dust, or hail, the headlights, position lights, and rear lights should be turned on. When turning, changing lanes, overtaking, making a U-turn, or pulling over, the turn signal should be activated 100 to 50 meters in advance. When a vehicle passes through an intersection controlled by traffic lights and turns left, the turn signal should be activated, and the low beam should be used at night. When a following vehicle is driving close to the vehicle in front in the same direction, the high beam should not be used. On roads without a central divider or centerline, when meeting another vehicle at night, the low beam should be switched to at least 150 meters away from the oncoming vehicle. When meeting non-motorized vehicles on narrow roads or bridges, the low beam should be used. When a vehicle passes through sharp curves, slopes, arched bridges, crosswalks, or uncontrolled intersections at night, the high and low beams should be alternated as a signal. If a vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident on the road, obstructing traffic and difficult to move, the hazard warning lights should be turned on, and a warning sign should be placed 50 to 100 meters behind the vehicle. At night, the position lights and rear lights should also be turned on. When using the wiper stalk, the following precautions should be observed: Do not operate the wipers without windshield washer fluid, as dry wiping can easily cause abnormal wear to the wiper blades and damage the wiper motor. If the windshield is too dirty, it is best to gently clean it with a dry cloth first to reduce unnecessary wear on the wipers. When the wiper blades do not clean effectively, try soaking them in water first, then sand them lightly with fine sandpaper, rinse them with clean water, reattach them to the windshield, and test them. If uneven wiping persists, repeat the process a few times. This method is mainly used for minor damage to the wiper blades. In rainy southern regions where wipers are used frequently, the replacement cycle can be shortened accordingly to ensure a clear and clean view during rainy weather.