Installing fog lights on your car gives you much better lighting when visibility is severely impaired. They usually come with detailed instructions on mounting, and they can usually be mounted by those with little experience. Installing fog lights is different on every car, but this article provides general instructions to get you started.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Choosing the fog lights
Step 1. Check the rules
In the Netherlands, rules have been drawn up for the type and color of fog lamps that may be used. For example, the color may only be white or yellow.
Step 2. Choose the type of fog lamp
Three lamp types are available as fog lamps. Choose the type that is most convenient for you.
- LED lights are very bright and last a long time. They use little energy and are not bothered by vibrations. The downside is the price, they are a lot more expensive than the alternatives.
- HID lamps use xenon gas to produce a large amount of bright light. This type is popular because the light is more like daylight.
- Halogen is the oldest type, the easiest to obtain and the cheapest. It is made from a single filament and halogen gas. This type of lamp gets relatively hot and breaks down relatively quickly.
Step 3. Choose the lamp style
There are all kinds of variants available when it comes to fog lights, but they fall into three categories based on mounting. Decide which style best suits your car.
- Bumper mount. These fog lamps fit into recesses that are specially made for this, they are usually round or rectangular. This is the most common style.
- Grill attachment. Larger, usually round. These lamps are attached to the grill or just behind it. You often see this with larger cars and SUVs.
- roof attachment. Round or rectangular lamps. These lamps are mounted on top of the car, often seen on off-road vehicles or pick-ups.
Method 2 of 2: Mounting your fog lights
Step 1. Park your car safely and turn off the engine
Make sure the car is straight. Apply the handbrake.
Step 2. Open the hood
Fog lamps that are attached to the bumper are usually located directly below the headlights. Check the user manual if you can't find them.
Step 3. Release the fog lamp knob from the housing
In this way you disconnect the fog lamps from the battery. You remove the button by loosening a clip.
Step 4. Remove washer, bolt and nut
This gives you access to the fog lamp housing. Keep all parts in a safe place.
Step 5. Remove the case
Be careful not to scratch the bumper. If you attach lights to the grill or to the roof, keep enough distance to avoid scratching the paint.
Step 6. Put in the new fog lamp
The housing must fit exactly in the space of the old fog lamp. If it doesn't fit, you probably bought the wrong bulb.
Check if the drill holes match, otherwise you may need to drill new holes
Step 7. Insert the bolt
Place the washer and nut over the bolt and tighten with a wrench. Don't over tighten as you could damage the housing or the car. The housing must be securely fastened and must not be able to move.
Step 8. Re-tighten the knob
Reattach the fog lamp knob with the clip. Now the new fog lamps are connected to the car battery.
Step 9. Start the car
Test your new lamps. Check that the angle is right for best visibility and check that you are not dazzling oncoming traffic.
Tips
If you only replace the lamp and not the housing, choose a lamp of the same type as the broken lamp
Warnings
- Never touch the lamp with your bare hands.
- Make sure the car is completely off before installing new bulbs.