What is the Fog Light Relay all about?
Your fog lights don’t need to be on if the headlights aren’t on. For that reason, a fog light relay is used. The fog light relay acts as a switch, enabling the fog lights to come on only when certain criteria are satisfied. Typically, fog lights do not come on when the high beam headlights are on either. The relay directs power to the fog lights only when the switch is on and the right lighting circuits are on. The use of a relay means a low voltage fog light switch can be used. If the full voltage of the fog lights runs through a switch, the switch will become very hot and overload.
Keep in mind:
- If your fog lights are drawing too much current, the relay can sustain damaged; conversely, a bad relay can cause damage to other components in your lighting system.
How it's done:
- The faulty fog light relay is identified and access panel removed
- The defective fog light relay is removed
- The new fog light relay is installed
- The fog lights are tested for proper operation and access panel installed
- The fog lights are finally checked for proper operation
Our recommendation:
Fog light operation is checked when regular maintenance inspections are performed. If the fog lights aren’t working, have them diagnosed and repaired by one of our expert mechanics.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Fog Light Relay?
- Turning on your fog lights only result in a clicking sound
- Fog lights do not work and the appropriate switches don’t light up
- Fog lights are on all the time
How important is this service?
All lights are required to operate as designed for a vehicle safety inspection. Not only will your vehicle not pass the inspection if the fog lights aren’t working, but your night vision will be obstructed. Have the fog light relay replaced as soon as it is deemed faulty.
