Car Reverse Light Basics

Every vehicle on the road has several different indicator lights that alert other drivers to your actions and enhance visibility of your vehicle. Your vehicle is equipped with seven or more indicator lights for various actions you could make. One of them is the reverse indicator light. Most people know it exists, but it isn't always clear what it's for or why it's important to keep it functioning.

What is the Reverse Indicator Light For?

Just as the name implies, it's there to let other drivers know when you're backing up. Typically the reverse indicators come as a pair on the rear of your vehicle and light up as you change to reverse. This gives a fair warning to those around you as you slowly back out of spaces.

What Other Purpose Do They Have?

Many people don't realize that they serve a secondary purpose; giving you light so you can see in poorly lit or dark places. When you switch into reverse, they light up and brighten up the area behind you. Visibility largely depends on what type of vehicle, so other means may be necessary to help you back up. However, in most cases, you can rely on your reverse indicator lights to light the way for you.

Is it Illegal to Operate Without Working Reverse Indicator Lights?

In most cases, the short answer is yes. Most states, if not all, require that all the lights work on your vehicle. From the rear brake light all the way up to your headlights, they must all be functioning. Granted, it's often difficult for officers of the law to see if your lights are working or not, and the chances are slim that you'll get caught. This isn't an excuse to operate without them, though, as this can put other drivers and pedestrians at risk.

How can You Repair Your Lights if They are Broken?

Thankfully, repairing or replacing your reverse indicator lights is simple. A great place to start is by heading down to your local auto repair store or super center to pick up a new pair of light bulbs. Replacing the lights is often as simple as popping your trunk or getting under your vehicle or behind your rear bumper to unscrew the old bulbs and screw in the new. Sometimes the problem may be electrical, and at times like this it's important to take your vehicle to a professional.

Your reverse indicator lights are extremely important to the safety of both yourself and the drivers and pedestrians around you. Not only can it light the area behind you while backing up, but it will alert other drivers and passersby of your next action. Thankfully, they require very little maintenance and require very little effort to replace in the event they need to be replaced. Most bulbs don't need to be replaced very often. So as long as you are careful and keep an eye on your indicator lights, you can rest assured knowing they've got your back covered.