What is the pattern of the small light in Subject 3?

[ChristianLee]

Subject 3 small light refers to the width light, also known as the clearance light. The width light on a car refers to the front position light and rear position light on the vehicle body. For different vehicle models, the position of the width light may vary slightly. On small cars, the width light is referred to as the small light, while on larger vehicles, it is called the width light. For trucks, the width light is often referred to as the side light. Introduction to width light: The width light, commonly known as the small light. Literally, 'width' means warning, and 'light' refers to the outline, so the width light is a warning light used to alert other vehicles. This type of light is usually installed on the edges of the car's roof, indicating both the height and width of the vehicle. Safety standards require that vehicles taller than three meters must be equipped with width lights. Front width light: Generally a white light source, making it easier for oncoming vehicles to clearly see the width and position of the car, thereby improving safety. The primary function of the width light is not aesthetics but to enhance the vehicle's visibility, making it easier for other road users to notice an approaching vehicle. Rear width light: Generally a red light source to increase light penetration, allowing vehicles behind to more easily spot the car ahead in poor visibility conditions, thus avoiding accidents caused by delayed detection of the vehicle in front.

[StLincoln]

When I was taking the driving test for Subject 3, the instructor particularly emphasized this 'small light,' which actually refers to the front and rear position lights, also known as marker lights. As for the 'pattern,' it refers to the sequence of lighting operations during the test. A typical instruction would be 'turn on the small light,' meaning to rotate the switch to the position light setting, which illuminates the small light strips at the front and rear—usually in an amber color, indicating the vehicle's outline. During the test, the examiner might ask you to switch from the off position: for example, first turn on the small light, then switch to the low beam. This 'small light pattern' is common in nighttime or low-light tests. The first time I took the test, I didn’t understand it properly and almost failed. Later, I practiced repeatedly and got familiar with the light knob in the car: it’s usually located on the lower left side of the steering wheel, and turning it to the first position activates the small light. Remember not to confuse it with the low beam, as incorrectly turning on the high beam will result in point deductions. During driving practice, simulate various scenarios, such as using the small light in rainy or foggy conditions, to ensure passing the test in one go.

[JadeRose]

As a driving instructor, I find that students often confuse the meaning of 'position lights'. The so-called 'position lights' in the driving test refer to the vehicle's position lights, which are part of the routine steps in the lighting operation test. The standard procedure is: the examiner will say 'Please turn on the position lights', meaning to rotate the headlight switch to the position light setting, which illuminates the front position lights and rear tail lights with yellow light to indicate the vehicle's width. During the test, it is not an independent mode but is often used after switching from low beam; for example, switching from high beam back to position lights to check if the light transition is smooth. I often remind students not to slack off during indoor practice—although position lights are dim, they must be used with fog lights in rainy or foggy conditions to enhance safety. Remember, the light switch in the car has an icon: a 'P' or a small person symbol indicates the position light setting. Due to the high error rate, I recommend practicing with a simulator at home to ensure zero mistakes during the test.

[PiperAnn]

Back when I took my driving test, the 'position lamps' referred to in the third test were essentially position lights, which involved a combination of lighting patterns. During the exam, when the position lamps were on, the light strips at the front and rear of the car emitted a soft, steady glow—a simple illumination pattern. Examiner commands like 'turn on the position lamps' meant twisting the knob to the first detent for the position lights. Unlike today, cars back then were simpler, with large, easy-to-find light knobs. I still remember my first drive on a rural road, where the position lamps helped signal the car's location to avoid collisions. During the test, we had to check if the lights were functioning properly, ensuring no damage or dimness that the examiner might notice. In daily driving, position lamps are used at dusk or in low visibility, paired with dipped beams to enhance visibility. These small lights are incredibly useful, yet often overlooked by beginners.