Reverse Lights play a key role in road safety. Whenever the driver engages reverse gear, these lights come on automatically.
Much more than just simple bulbs, these lights are required by law and must comply with certain rules, such as being white and having a maximum range.
In this article, learn everything about these lights, from legal requirements to what to do in case of a malfunction.
What Are The Reverse Lights On A Car?
Reversing lights are a lighting system that automatically activates when reverse gear is engaged. They are located at the rear of the vehicle and emit a white light with a limited range.
Their main purpose is to warn other drivers and pedestrians that the vehicle is reversing, giving them a safe distance. They also help the driver to see better behind the vehicle in low light conditions.
What Is The Purpose Of The Reversing Lights?
In addition to providing light, these lights have other important functions, such as:
- Warning pedestrians and drivers that the vehicle is reversing;
- Facilitating manoeuvres in low-light conditions;
- Allowing the driver to see obstacles, ramps or other vehicles.
They are also essential for rear sensor or camera systems.
What Are The Different Types Of Backing Lights?
Not all cars use the same type of reverse light. Some models have a single rear light (usually on the left side), while others have two lights to ensure greater visibility. In addition to their configuration, they also differ in the type of bulb used:
- Halogen: most common, economical, and easy to replace;
- LED: longer life, lower consumption, and better lighting;
- Xenon: used in premium vehicles, but rarer and more expensive.
How Many Reverse Lights Should Come On?
As a rule, a car has two reverse lights. However, there are vehicles, such as trailers, that may only have one.
What Color Are Reverse Lights?
Reverse lights are usually white. This color clearly indicates that the vehicle is reversing, helping other drivers and pedestrians react in time.
Unlike other rear lights, such as parking lights (minimum), which are red and indicate the position of the car, reverse lights have a very specific function: to illuminate the rear area with a clear and short beam whenever reverse gear is engaged.
It is important not to confuse these with the vehicle’s front lighting systems, such as high beams (high lights) or low beams (low lights), which, despite using white or yellow light, are used to see and be seen ahead.
Using the wrong color for the reverse light can cause confusion in traffic.
What Is The Range Of The Backing Lights?
The range of these lights is normally 10 meters, in accordance with the legislation in your country. This distance is sufficient to ensure visibility when parking or when reversing at night.
Even if you opt for more powerful LED bulbs, the light beam of the reverse lights must comply with the limit according to the legislation in force in your country.
Where Is The Reverse Light Located?
They are usually positioned alongside the vehicle’s other rear lights.
The location may vary depending on the model of the vehicle, but the purpose is to ensure direct visibility behind the car.
How To Tell If Your Reverse Light Is Working Properly?
To find out if your reverse light is working, you should:
- Start the engine and put the car in reverse gear;
- Ask someone else to check if the light comes on. If you are alone, use a mirror or film with your cell phone;
- In a garage or at night, check if the light reflects on the floor or walls.
What To Do If Your Reversing Lights Fail?
If your reverse lights stop working, you should:
- Check the bulb: it may be burnt out and need replacing;
- Check the fuse: a burnt-out fuse can prevent the circuit from working;
- Test the reverse switch: this is located in the gearbox;
- Check the cables and connections: damage or corrosion on the terminals can cause faults.
What Tools Do You Need To Change Your Reverse Lights?
To change a reverse light, you will need:
- A screwdriver or Torx key;
- Gloves or a clean cloth (avoid touching the bulb with your fingers);
- A new compatible bulb (check the vehicle manual);
- A current tester or multimeter (optional, to check for faults).
Summary Table
To check whether your vehicle’s reverse lights comply with the requirements, see the summary table below, which lists the characteristics of this light. These requirements may vary depending on the legislation in your country.
| Feature | Requirements |
| Color | White |
| Reversing Lights Range | 10 meters |
| Number | 1 or 2 reverse lights |
| Types Of Bulbs | Halogen, LED, Xenon |
| Location | Rear, next to the license plate or taillights |
Reversing lights ensure safety and visibility and must comply with a mandatory legal requirement in your country.
Keeping these lights working properly is the responsibility of all drivers. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek a car repair shop in case of a malfunction in this lighting system.
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