What does the position light mean?
3 Answers
Position lights are the four flashing lights at the front, rear, left, and right when the hazard lights are turned on, also known as the vehicle's width indicator lights. Below is relevant information about vehicle width indicator lights: 1. Function: Vehicle width indicator lights are turn signal lights that flash simultaneously, serving as a warning. They are suitable for use during nighttime driving to indicate the outline and size of the vehicle, helping front and rear vehicles discern the size and position of the vehicle in dimly lit environments. 2. Usage scenarios: Must be turned on during nighttime driving (traffic regulations require that width indicator lights and rear position lights must be turned on simultaneously during nighttime driving); In rainy or foggy weather when the driver's visibility is poor, it is essential to turn on the width indicator lights to serve as a warning reference for front, rear, and oncoming vehicles; Turning on the width indicator lights during dusk driving makes it easier for other drivers to see the vehicle.
I didn’t understand what position lights were when I first started driving, but later learned they’re actually width indicators. These lights are installed on both sides of the car and are mainly used when it’s getting dark, such as at dusk or during overcast or rainy days with poor visibility, allowing other drivers to see the outline of your car from a distance. Last time I was driving on a mountain road in heavy fog, turning on the position lights made it obvious that oncoming vehicles slowed down and gave way earlier. They’re much dimmer than headlights, so they won’t dazzle others, but bright enough to show your car’s width and position. Unlike daytime running lights, position lights require manual operation—some cars have the switch on the left stalk near the steering wheel; check your manual for specifics. Remember to regularly check the position light bulbs—it’s dangerous if they’re not working.
Position lights, as the name suggests, are used to indicate a vehicle's position. Having driven seven or eight different car models, I've noticed this light has many names—width marker lights, contour lights, or parking lights all refer to it. They're most commonly used during twilight transition periods when sunlight hasn't completely faded but isn't bright enough. When position lights are turned on, small lights on both sides of the front end and near the rearview mirrors will illuminate, allowing other vehicles to identify your car's width from a hundred meters away. I've observed some experienced drivers turning on position lights half a second before entering tunnels as a safety habit. Don't confuse them with headlights—position lights are yellow weak light sources primarily serving as indicators rather than illumination. Nowadays, many cars can keep these lights on for 10 minutes after engine shutdown as a temporary parking warning, which is a very practical feature.
