Driving at night without your tail lights on is not only super risky, but also illegal in most places, making you less visible to others and increasing your chances of a nasty accident, not to mention the potential for a hefty fine. But what if your car has a light sensor that automatically turns on your headlights when it gets dark? How can you make sure your tail lights are on too?
The secret weapon is right there on your dashboard: your dash lights! These indicators show you everything from your speed to your fuel level, but they’re also cleverly linked to your tail lights, acting as a clear signal that your tail lights are indeed illuminated when they’re on.
But what happens if those dash lights are acting up – flickering, dim, or completely out? This is a red flag that your tail lights might also be malfunctioning, a problem you might not discover until someone points it out or you’re pulled over. Several things could be causing this, from a loose battery connection to a faulty alternator, a blown fuse, damaged wiring, or even a defective light sensor. Let’s dive into how you can figure this out and fix it.
If your dashboard lights are flickering, it might mean your car’s electrical system isn’t getting enough power, possibly due to a weak battery, loose or corroded battery terminals, or an alternator that’s not doing its job of recharging the battery. To check your battery, a quick voltage test can tell you if it’s low, meaning it might need a jump start or a replacement. For the alternator, a voltage test after starting the car can reveal if it needs repair or replacement. And don’t forget to inspect those battery terminals for any gunk or looseness; cleaning them with a wire brush and tightening them up, perhaps with some dielectric grease, can prevent future issues.
Dim dashboard lights could signal a blown fuse or a damaged wiring harness. Fuses are like tiny circuit breakers designed to protect your electrical system from overloads, while a wiring harness is the network of wires connecting all your car’s electrical bits. To check the fuse, find your fuse box (usually under the dash or in the engine bay), pull out the relevant fuse (often for dash and tail lights), and look for any signs of damage like melting or burning – if it’s blown, swap it with a new one of the same amperage. For the wiring harness, trace the wires from the fuse box to your lights and look for any nicks, cuts, or melting; if you find any damage, it might need repair or replacement.
When your dash lights simply aren’t working at all, it strongly suggests a problem with the light sensor itself. This little gadget is responsible for detecting how dark it is and automatically turning on your headlights and tail lights. A simple test involves covering the sensor (usually found on your dashboard or near the windshield) with your hand or a cloth; if your lights don’t come on, the sensor might be faulty and could need replacement or professional repair, though sometimes you can adjust its sensitivity.
To ensure you’re never caught driving with your tail lights off again, make it a habit to glance at your dash lights every time you start your car – make sure they illuminate properly. It’s also wise to periodically check your tail lights themselves, especially if you notice anything unusual with your dash lights or the automatic light sensor. If you discover any issues with your battery, alternator, fuse, wiring, or light sensor, get them sorted out promptly, or if you’re unsure, take your car to a trusted mechanic. These simple checks and prompt repairs will keep you safe and legal on the road.
