Where to Find Your Headlight Controls

Where to Find Your Car's Headlight Controls

If you’ve ever jumped into a new or unfamiliar car and struggled to turn the headlights on, you’re not alone. Headlight controls can vary depending on the make and model, but once you know where to look, they’re usually easy to operate.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common places you’ll find your car’s headlight controls.

1. Indicator Stalk (Most Common)

The most common location for headlight controls is on the indicator stalk, usually found on the right-hand side of the steering wheel in Australian vehicles.

What to look for:

• A rotating dial or switch on the stalk
• Symbols for: parking lights, headlights, Auto (automatic headlights)

Why this setup is popular:

• Easy to access without taking your hands off the wheel
• Combines multiple lighting functions in one place

2. Dashboard Control Dial

Some vehicles—particularly European models like Volkswagen, Audi, and BMW—often place the headlight controls on the dashboard.

Where to find it:

• To the right or lower side of the steering wheel
• Integrated into the dash panel

What it looks like:

• A rotary dial you twist to select lighting modes
• May include a push/pull function for fog lights

3. Steering Wheel Controls / Buttons

In newer vehicles, especially those with digital displays, some lighting functions are integrated into buttons near the steering wheel or on the dash.

Common features:

• Auto headlights enabled by default
• Buttons for toggling specific lighting modes
• Settings accessible through the infotainment system

4. Infotainment System Controls

Modern cars are increasingly moving controls into the infotainment screen. While you’ll still usually have a physical control for basic headlights, some settings are now digital.

You might find:

• Headlight sensitivity adjustments (for auto mode)
• Daytime running light (DRL) settings
• “Coming home” or “leaving home” light timers

5. Automatic Headlights (Set and Forget)

Many newer vehicles come with automatic headlights, meaning you may rarely need to touch the controls at all.

How it works:

• Light sensors detect when it’s dark
• Headlights turn on/off automatically

Tip:

• Look for an “AUTO” setting on your dial or stalk
• Leave it on this setting for convenience

A Quick Tip for Any Car

No matter what you drive, the quickest way to find your headlight controls is to:

• Check the indicator stalk first
• Then look at the dashboard to the right of the steering wheel
• Or refer to your owner’s manual

Final Thoughts

While headlight controls can vary between makes and models, they’re always designed to be within easy reach of the driver. Once you know the common locations, jumping between different cars becomes much simpler.

If you’re ever unsure, our team at Big Box Cars is always happy to walk you through the features of your vehicle—whether you’re buying your next car or just getting familiar with a new one. Browse our range online or visit us in person to experience it all for yourself.