As autumn turns into winter, increased attention on the roads becomes essential. Especially when we have to get behind the wheel in dark, foggy conditions and drive long distances. In such cases, fog lights and high beams are indispensable accessories. Their proper use can often protect drivers from life-threatening situations and serious accidents.
In this article, we will show you what you need to know about them, what rules apply to their use, and of course why fog lights and high beams are essential equipment for every truck driver.
Fog lights and high beams: what is the difference and what are they used for?
Most people have probably come across the term fog light, even if they do not own a vehicle or drive regularly. However, in everyday language, all additional lights are often incorrectly referred to as fog lights. It is important to know that there are basically three types of auxiliary lights: fog lights, high beams, and searchlights.
The purpose of high beams is to illuminate the road under proper visibility conditions, ensuring that the driver can see as far ahead as possible. Using high beams significantly increases visibility distance and thus guarantees safety, even at high speeds. A searchlight, on the other hand, is essentially an additional solution that cannot be used together with low beams—only when the high beam is switched on—and enhances its effect.
The term fog light in everyday language refers to two things: front and rear lights used in poor visibility conditions. The official name for the special lighting devices at the front of the vehicle is front fog lamps, while the rear ones serving the same purpose are simply called rear fog lights. The front fog lamp helps improve road visibility in poor conditions, while the rear fog light ensures that drivers approaching from behind notice us sooner, helping to avoid dangerous situations.
In what situations is it allowed to use fog lights according to regulations?
The use of fog lights is generally justified when weather and visibility conditions become worse than average. However, it is common to encounter the problem that drivers use these lights unnecessarily. This can be disturbing for others and also dangerous. Therefore, it is important to know both the written and unwritten rules regarding the use of high beams and fog lights.
First, let’s look at the official rules. Two regulations deal with the use of fog lights. According to traffic law, “front fog lamps and rear fog lights may be used instead of or alongside dipped or high beams if visibility conditions justify it.” This is rather vague, as it essentially leaves the decision to the driver’s judgment—and unfortunately, many misuse this on the roads.
In contrast, the 6/1990 KÖHÉM regulation provides more specific guidance. Chapter II states: “5.13. Front fog lamps serve to improve road illumination in fog, snowfall, heavy rain, or dust clouds. 5.14. Rear fog lights serve to make the vehicle more visible from behind in dense fog.”
This means that according to regulations, front fog lamps may be used in fog, snowfall, heavy rain, or dust clouds, while rear fog lights may only be used in fog. It is important to emphasize the phrase “may be used,” meaning their use is never mandatory.
It is also important to note that the color of auxiliary lights is restricted. Both high beams and fog lamps may only emit white or cadmium yellow light.
But when is it inappropriate to use fog lights and headlights?
Whether it is fog lights or high beams, if we decide to turn them on, it is important to be aware of unwritten rules—basic driving etiquette. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore this. For example, some use front or rear fog lights instead of low beams, which is problematic and dangerous, as many fog lights are brighter than dipped beams, not to mention high beams.
Unjustified use of headlights and fog lights can blind drivers approaching from the opposite direction or those behind us. This is especially disturbing in the case of rear fog lights, which are usually brighter than standard rear lights and can even be more dazzling than brake lights.
Therefore, using fog lights in normal visibility conditions or while stationary is strictly prohibited. It is also strongly discouraged in slow-moving traffic, traffic jams, or within built-up areas. If a vehicle approaches from the opposite direction, if someone catches up to us, or if we catch up to someone else, we should switch off the fog lights and use dipped beams instead. If we can already see vehicles, traffic lights, or signs 100 meters ahead, using fog lights is unnecessary.
The same applies to high beams: they should only be used on dark, poorly visible road sections without oncoming traffic. It is essential not to blind oncoming or preceding drivers. This means switching them off immediately when vehicles approach each other or when following another vehicle continuously. High beams should only be used outside built-up areas and at night.
In summary, use these auxiliary lights only when truly necessary—when natural light and street lighting are insufficient for safe and comfortable driving, while always considering other road users as well.
Placement and adjustment of fog lights and high beams
To use auxiliary lighting properly, several factors must be considered, including correct installation and adjustment. When installing high beams, for example,
in addition to the lamp housing and bulb, extra components are usually required for wiring, such as a compatible internal switch and a relay. It is advisable to choose a relay that can be connected directly to the vehicle’s fuse panel.
It is also important to note that while high beams are generally universal, fog lights can be vehicle-specific. This is because many vehicles have factory-designed mounting points in the bumper. In such cases, only fog lights of the appropriate shape will fit. For vehicles without such mounting points, it is advisable to install the lights in a protected location and shield them with a grille or impact-resistant cover.
Regulations only restrict auxiliary lights in that they must not cover the license plate or factory-installed lights. Proper placement is therefore largely determined by practicality. High beams should be mounted higher, above the bumper, to provide maximum distance illumination. Lights mounted on or above the roof are considered auxiliary spotlights and must be approved as such. In contrast, fog lights should be mounted as low as possible to illuminate beneath the fog. However, they should not be placed so low that they risk damage. Always consider both the lamp specifications and the vehicle parameters when determining placement.
It is important to know that improperly adjusted front fog lights can be extremely disturbing for oncoming drivers. Proper adjustment means illuminating the area just a few meters in front of the vehicle and along the roadside. In dense fog, trying to illuminate far distances is ineffective, as light reflects off tiny droplets and worsens visibility instead of improving it. A low, wide beam improves visibility for the driver.
The "E" mark on lamps and headlights: what does it mean and why is it important?
Today, we can order vehicle parts and accessories from almost anywhere online. However, it is common to come across products that are not legally approved for road use. This includes lamps without the so-called "E" marking, even if their specifications are similar to approved products.
The circled "E" mark is an approval symbol indicating that the lamp has been tested by a certified institution and complies with ECE standards. The "E" is followed by a number identifying the approving country, the regulation version, and other markings.
It is important to know that if a lamp is designed for a specific bulb type, only bulbs with an "E" mark can be used in it. Without this approval, the component is not road legal. Therefore, the "E" mark is essential for high beams. Without it, the accessory cannot legally be installed on the vehicle. During inspections, such items may be removed, and their use can even result in the withdrawal of the vehicle’s registration.
If the chosen high beam does have an "E" mark, it can be installed after proper approval and used safely in appropriate situations.
Which bulb should we choose for safe driving?
The choice of bulb depends on the socket type of the lamp. The most common types include:
· H3 - designed for 55 W power;
· H8 - designed for 35 W power;
· H11 - designed for 65 W power;
· H27 - designed for 27 W power;
It is important not to experiment with bulbs of different power ratings, as installing a higher-wattage bulb than specified can blow fuses.
There are three main types of auxiliary lighting: halogen, xenon, and LED. Their performance varies, and compatibility must be checked according to the manufacturer’s markings.
Halogen: Due to their efficiency and easy installation, halogen bulbs are the most popular. They emit warm light that penetrates fog and heavy rain well. Their brightness remains stable over time, but their lifespan can be relatively short. Halogen bulbs are marked with "H", and compatible lamps are marked with "B".
Xenon: Xenon bulbs provide higher brightness and longer lifespan than halogen bulbs. They rarely fail and are resistant to voltage fluctuations, while consuming less energy. However, they are more expensive. Over time, their brightness decreases gradually, which may be less noticeable, so timely replacement is important. Improper installation can blind oncoming traffic, so their use is strictly regulated. Xenon bulbs can only be legally installed in vehicles equipped with automatic leveling, headlight washers, and appropriate housings. They are marked with "D", and compatible lamps with "F3".
LED: LED bulbs are characterized by low energy consumption, strong vibration resistance, and long lifespan—all at a reasonable price. They produce minimal heat and can be used where overheating is a concern. They also minimize light pollution by directing light precisely where needed. However, incorrect installation can blind other drivers. LED bulbs are marked "LED", and compatible lamps with "F3". Lamps marked "B" are not suitable for LED bulbs, meaning halogen-designed lamps cannot be used with LED lighting. In Europe and Hungary, this is both illegal and results in poorer performance than halogen systems.
What shape should the high beam be?
High beams are available in two main shapes: rectangular and round. Sizes range from small (10–15 cm) to large (around 20 cm). The lens design also varies. Some are optimized for long-distance illumination with a focused beam, while others provide wider, shorter-range light.
Most models include built-in position lights, especially round ones, where the light forms a ring. One popular solution is the so-called Angel Eye,
where the position light bulb is located at one point of the circle, and a special lens distributes the light evenly around the edge.
Quality matters
When choosing high beams or fog lights, it is important to opt for good quality products. It is worth spending a bit more, as higher-quality items are more durable. Cheaper products may suffer from reflector deterioration and seal aging after 2–3 years, leading to water ingress and eventual failure. In our webshop, you can find high-quality lighting accessories that meet all regulations and expectations, ensuring safe and comfortable driving in all conditions.
