HOW TO CHECK YOUR LIGHTS

It’s easy to check the front and rear lights on your Ford… when you know how. Watch the video and you’ll soon be an expert light checker.

The lights on your Ford are essential for visibility. So, it’s important you check them regularly to make sure they’re working properly.

But the question is: how DO you check your car’s lights?

If you’re not sure, this video provides you with all the answers. 

With easy to follow steps and ‘TOP TIPs’ along the way, you’ll quickly learn how to operate and check all your car’s main lights, including: brake lights, fog lights, hazard lights, front lights, rear lights and number plate lights, plus your running lights and instrument panel lights.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR LIGHTS

• Turn your ignition key to enable the electrics. You don't need a running engine to check your lights.
• Make sure the light switch is in the off position
• Turn it one ‘click’ to the right. 
• Now, your running lights, instrument panel lights, number plate lights and rear lights should be lit up.
• A light on the dash confirms that they’re on. For a guide to symbols on your dashboard, just check your Owner’s Manual.
• TOP TIP: Get someone to help you. You can operate the lights whilst they check they’re working.
• Walk around the car and check each light.
• Tap each lamp to help detect any loose electrical connections.
• Also check for moisture inside the lights.
• If you spot any excess water, have your lights checked by your local Ford Dealer. 
• Now turn the dial one more ‘click’. This puts on your dipped bulbs.
• You’ll see a light on the dash showing they’re on.
• Go to the front of your car to check they’re working.
• Next test your fog lights. Press the front and back fog light buttons.
• Visually check the fog lights, front and back.
• Next, check your front lights, both high and low beam.
• For a single, high beam flash pull the stalk towards the steering wheel.
• To stay on high beam click it forward.
• You’ll see a ‘high beam’ icon illuminate on your dash.
• Go to the front of your car to visually check the high beams.
• To check your indicator lights, push the stalk up or down.
• You’ll see a flashing light on the dash to show they’re working: left and right.
• TOP TIP: Put on your hazard warning lights. This way you can visually check all indicators in one go.
• Don’t forget the lights on your wing mirrors.
• If any indicators stay on, or flash very quickly, you may need a new bulb.
• To check the brake lights, you’ll need some help.
• Press the brake pedal whilst someone else checks they come on.
• Don’t forget your high-level brake light (this will be above your car’s rear windscreen), or your reversing lights.
• TOP TIP: If you don’t have a helper, park next to something reflective. A wall or garage door will do.

That’s how easy it is to check your Ford’s lights. But if there’s anything you’re not sure about, you can always refer to your Owner’s Manual, or simply contact your Ford Dealer. 

And if you find this video useful, check out the others in our ‘How to…’ series: it’s designed to help you keep your Ford in top condition and make best use of its many features.