The primary button to turn on headlights is usually a rotary knob on the left stalk lever. Rotating it to the headlight symbol activates low beams, while ‘Auto’ enables automatic control. High beams are engaged by pushing the stalk away. Some models use dashboard dials or touchscreen menus instead.
The most common control is a multi-function stalk located to the left of the steering column. The outer ring or end of this stalk is a rotary knob. Turning this knob cycles through settings: from ‘Off’ to ‘Auto’, then to parking lights (often symbolized by two outward-facing brackets), and finally to the main headlight symbol (a downward-facing light beam). This last position turns on your standard low-beam headlights.
For many European-brand vehicles and some trucks, the control is a rotary dial on the dashboard, typically to the left of the steering wheel. The principle is identical—rotate the dial through the same sequence of symbols to activate the headlights.
High beam operation is integrated into the same left stalk. To turn on high beams for better long-range visibility, you push the entire stalk forward, away from you. A blue dashboard indicator light will illuminate. To deactivate high beams and return to low beams, pull the stalk back toward you. A quick pull-and-release is used for a “flash-to-pass” signal.
Understanding the dashboard symbols is crucial for correct operation. These icons are standardized for clarity:
- ‘O’ or ‘OFF’: All exterior lights are off.
- ‘A’ or ‘AUTO’: The vehicle’s light sensor manages headlights.
- Two outward-facing brackets (often green) : Parking lights/side markers are on.
- Downward-facing light beam (often green) : Low-beam headlights are active.
- Blue light beam symbol : Indicates high beams are engaged.
A growing trend, especially in newer models from brands like Chevrolet, Tesla, and other EVs, is the migration of headlight controls to the central touchscreen. Drivers must navigate a menu or a dedicated “Lights” section on the screen to activate headlights manually. While sleek, this method can be less intuitive and more distracting than a physical switch. Industry surveys indicate over 85% of vehicles on the road today still use a physical stalk or dial as the primary control.
| Control Type | Typical Location | Action to Turn On Low Beams | Common in |
|---|
| Rotary Stalk Knob | Left side of steering column | Rotate knob to headlight symbol | Toyota, Honda, Ford, Nissan |
| Dashboard Rotary Dial | Dashboard, left of steering wheel | Rotate dial to headlight symbol | Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo |
| Touchscreen Menu | Center console display | Tap lights icon/select headlight mode | Tesla, newer GM models, Rivian |
Regardless of the control type, the fundamental rule is to locate and turn the setting to the headlight symbol. If your vehicle has an ‘Auto’ setting, using it is highly recommended. This feature uses an ambient light sensor to turn headlights on at dusk, in tunnels, or during rain, significantly enhancing safety by ensuring your lights are on when needed.
