Which Light is the Position Lamp?
3 Answers
Position lamps are the outermost lights at the front and rear of the vehicle. Large trucks also have clearance lamps on the roof and sides. Position lamps serve as warning lights to alert other vehicles. Installed along the top edges of the car, they indicate both the vehicle's height and width. Position lamps, also known as width markers, are easily identifiable by their symbol featuring two lamp-like icons with three lines extending left and right, representing the illumination of both side position lamps. Fog lights are characterized by a wavy line passing through the light beam. The distinguishing method for high/low beams and front/rear fog lights is that low beams and front fog lights have downward-slanting lines, while high beams and rear fog lights have horizontal lines.
The position lights are actually the small lights on both sides of the car body when we drive, usually located on the sides or corners of the vehicle, such as under the rearview mirrors or at the four corners of the car body, looking like small bulbs. These lights automatically turn on when the light is dim, mainly to help other drivers see the outline of your car and avoid collisions. I always tell my friends that these things are especially important at night or in heavy fog, as they improve driving safety—without them, accidents are more likely to happen. Nowadays, many new cars integrate LED technology, making the lights brighter and more durable. Older cars may require regular checks to see if the bulbs are burnt out or if there's poor wiring contact. Replacing a bulb yourself is quite simple. Remember, don’t overlook these small lights during maintenance. Though they may seem insignificant, they play a big role in safe driving. I think all drivers should pay attention to their condition.
After driving for so many years, I believe that the position lights refer to the small lights installed near the front and rear bumpers or side mirrors of the vehicle. Their purpose is to indicate the width of the car during dusk or overcast days. I often encounter beginners asking about this—it's essentially an indicator of the vehicle's outline. These lights house small bulbs, typically in yellow or white. In daily use, if these lights don't illuminate, promptly check the fuse or whether the socket has poor contact. I once had a light go out due to bulb aging and later replaced it myself, saving on repair costs. From a safety perspective, they help others see you in poor visibility conditions. Don’t underestimate this small light—without it, minor collisions are more likely. Therefore, regular maintenance is crucial. Keeping these lights bright is what makes a responsible car owner.
