What does the front and rear position lamp mean?
2 Answers
Position lamp (position-lamp) refers to the four flashing lights at the front, rear, left and right sides when the hazard warning lights are turned on, which are also known as vehicle width indicator lights. Width indicator lights are turn signal lights that flash simultaneously to serve as a warning, suitable for use during night driving. More information about vehicle position lamps is as follows: 1. The function of position lamps is to indicate the outline size of the vehicle, so that front and rear vehicles can distinguish the size and position of the vehicle in dimly lit environments. 2. The control switch is the light knob. For models with only manual light-on function, turning the light knob one notch turns on the width indicator lights (turning it another notch turns on the headlights). For models with automatic headlights, when the switch is turned to the "AUTO" position, the outline lights will automatically turn on when the ambient light is dim. 3. The front position lamps emit white light, while the rear position lamps mostly emit red light, with a bulb power of 8~10W.
Position lights are the small lights on both sides of the front and rear of the car, specifically designed to help others see the vehicle's position and outline at night or in poor lighting conditions. Having driven for over a decade, I can attest to the importance of position lights—they're not for illumination but for marking the vehicle's width to prevent collisions. For example, when driving at dusk or in foggy weather, turning on the position lights allows other drivers to gauge the size of the car from a distance and maintain a safe following distance. Traffic regulations require position lights to be on during nighttime driving, and failure to do so can result in a ticket from the police. I once experienced a near rear-end collision at a highway exit when my position lights were out because the driver behind couldn't see my car's silhouette. Nowadays, many new cars come with LED position lights, which are durable and energy-efficient. I recommend regularly checking if your lights are functioning properly, especially for used cars, as aging bulbs are prone to burning out. Replacing them is inexpensive but crucial for safety.
