How to turn on the lights on your Honda CR‑V

Turn the outer ring on the left‑hand stalk (behind the steering wheel) to the headlight symbol to switch on your CR‑V’s lights; set it to AUTO if equipped to let the car handle headlights automatically. Push the stalk forward for high beams (pull to flash), and if your trim has fog lights, switch them on with the fog‑light ring or button. Interior lights are controlled by the overhead map/dome switches and the dashboard dimmer. Below is a detailed guide covering most CR‑V model years and trims.

Where the light controls are and what they do

On all CR‑V generations, exterior lighting is controlled from the turn-signal stalk on the left side of the steering column. Depending on model year and trim, you may also have AUTO headlights, Auto High-Beam (AHB), and (on some older trims/markets) fog lights. This overview explains each control so you know what to expect before you drive at night.

• Headlight switch: Rotate the outer ring on the left stalk through OFF → (AUTO, if equipped) → parking lights → headlights.
• High beams: Push the stalk forward to latch high beams on; pull back to return to low beams. Pull and release to momentarily “flash to pass.”
• Fog lights (if equipped): Use the inner ring on the same stalk or a dedicated dash button to toggle fogs when parking lights or headlights are on. Many newer North American CR‑V trims no longer include fog lights from the factory.
• Auto headlights: Set the ring to AUTO; a light sensor on top of the dash turns lights on/off based on ambient light. Keep that sensor area clear of dash mats or objects.
• Auto High-Beam (if equipped): With the headlight switch in AUTO or ON and vehicle speed above a threshold, the system can raise/lower beams automatically when enabled in the vehicle’s Lighting settings (and, on some years, via a physical AHB button).
• Instrument panel dimmer: A small brightness wheel or buttons near the left side of the dash adjust cluster and backlight brightness when lights are on.
• Interior/map lights: Press the overhead lens/switches; use the DOOR setting so they come on when doors open.

While the control layout has stayed consistent, features vary by year/market. If your stalk lacks an AUTO position or a fog‑light ring, your vehicle likely isn’t equipped with those features.

Step-by-step: turning on exterior lights

These steps cover typical operation for 2012–2025 CR‑V models; minor differences may apply based on trim and market.

1. Start the vehicle or switch to accessory/ON mode so the electrical system is active.
2. Locate the left stalk behind the steering wheel.
3. Rotate the outer ring to the headlight icon to turn on low beams and tail/marker lights. Rotate to AUTO if you want the car to manage them automatically.
4. For high beams, push the stalk forward; a blue high‑beam indicator appears on the cluster. Pull the stalk toward you for a momentary flash, or pull again to return to low beams.
5. If equipped with fog lights, turn the fog‑light ring or press the fog button; a green fog indicator should appear when active.
6. Adjust the instrument panel brightness using the dash dimmer so your gauges are readable without glare at night.

After setting your preferred mode, the system will remember it between drives. In AUTO, the lights will come on at dusk, in tunnels, and often when wipers run (on some models) to comply with visibility laws.

Using AUTO headlights and Auto High‑Beam

AUTO headlight behavior

When set to AUTO, the CR‑V uses a light sensor to decide when to activate the exterior lights. Understanding a few conditions helps it work smoothly.

• Keep the sensor area (top of dashboard by the windshield) unobstructed and clean.
• Expect a short delay when entering/exiting tunnels or garages; this is normal.
• On many models, if wipers are on for a period, headlights will turn on automatically when in AUTO.

If lights aren’t coming on as expected in AUTO, verify the sensor isn’t covered and that the switch is actually in the AUTO detent.

Auto High‑Beam (AHB), if equipped

Some 2017–2025 CR‑V trims include Auto High‑Beam, which raises/lowers your beams based on traffic. Check your owner’s manual or instrument cluster for an “A” headlight icon to confirm availability.

• Enable AHB in the vehicle settings (Settings → Vehicle → Lighting → Auto High‑Beam), and/or via a dedicated AHB button, depending on model year.
• Set the headlight switch to AUTO or ON and drive above the system’s speed threshold (typically around 25–30 mph/40–48 km/h).
• The system will dim for oncoming or preceding traffic and brighten on dark, open roads; an indicator shows when AHB is ready/active.
• Manually override anytime by pushing/pulling the stalk; AHB resumes when conditions allow.

Because AHB relies on a forward camera, ensure the windshield area by the rearview mirror is clean and not blocked by stickers or devices.

Fog lights and regional differences

Fog‑light availability depends on year and market. Many newer North American CR‑V trims have LED headlights but no factory fog lights, while earlier models and some markets still feature them.

• If your stalk has a fog‑light ring or your dash has a fog button, they’ll only activate with parking lights or headlights on.
• A green fog‑lamp indicator on the cluster confirms they’re lit.
• Use fog lights in poor weather; turn them off in clear conditions to avoid glare for other drivers.

If you can’t find a fog‑light control, your vehicle likely isn’t equipped; consult the VIN-specific build sheet or manual to confirm.

Interior lighting and dimming

Good cabin lighting helps at night without distracting glare. The CR‑V gives you a few simple controls to fine‑tune brightness.

• Map/dome lights: Press the lens or switch; use the DOOR position so they come on when doors open.
• Cargo light: Typically actuated by opening the tailgate; some models have a nearby switch.
• Instrument panel/console dimmer: Use the brightness wheel or +/- buttons on the lower left dash to adjust when exterior lights are on.

If your cluster is too dim in daylight, briefly nudge the dimmer brighter or turn off the headlights when safe; some settings force “night” brightness when lights are on.

Quick safety notes

Using lights properly is both a legal requirement and a key safety habit. Keep these reminders in mind whenever you drive.

• Use low beams at dusk, in rain, fog, snow, and whenever visibility is reduced; in many regions, headlights must be on when wipers are in continuous use.
• Avoid driving with only parking lights; they are not sufficient for visibility.
• Don’t rely solely on DRLs at night—turn on full headlights so tail lights illuminate.
• Aim not adjustable by the driver on most LED setups; if you suspect misalignment, have a technician check it.

Following these practices improves your visibility to others and helps you see the road without dazzling oncoming traffic.

Troubleshooting if your lights don’t come on

If the lights aren’t behaving as expected, a few quick checks usually resolve the issue without a service visit.

• Ignition mode: Ensure the vehicle is in ON/ready mode; some lights won’t activate in ACC.
• Switch position: Confirm the stalk is actually in the desired position (AUTO vs ON vs OFF).

• Parking brake: DRLs may be disabled if the parking brake is engaged.
• Light sensor: Remove any dash covers or papers that could block it.
• Settings: Verify Auto High‑Beam and related features are enabled in the infotainment settings.
• Indicators: Look for cluster icons (headlight, high beam, fog) to confirm the system status.
• Bulbs/LEDs and fuses: Older halogen bulbs can burn out; newer models use LEDs, which require service if they fail. Check the fuse box diagram in your manual for lighting circuits.

If problems persist, consult your owner’s manual for your exact model year or have a Honda dealer perform a diagnostic.

Summary

To turn on your Honda CR‑V’s lights, rotate the left‑hand stalk’s outer ring to the headlight symbol (or AUTO if equipped). Push the stalk forward for high beams, use the fog‑light control if your trim has it, and adjust cabin brightness with the dash dimmer and overhead lights. Features like AUTO headlights and Auto High‑Beam vary by year and trim but generally activate when enabled and unobstructed. When in doubt, check your owner’s manual for model‑specific details.

How do I turn on Honda headlights?

The headlamp button turns on the headlamps. Together with the parking lamps and instrument panel lights. Then press the auto button to reactivate the auto mode.

How to reset Honda CRV lights?

So you’re going to go into the infotainment. Here you do need the car in uh park. So home settings vehicle going to scroll all the way up here. Now maintenance info.

How to turn on automatic lights on Honda CRV?

Using the lever:

1. Pull the lever towards you and release it.
2. Turn the light switch to and then to AUTO when the lever is in the low beam position.

How do I turn on automatic headlights?

To turn on automatic headlights, locate your vehicle’s light control dial or stalk and rotate it to the “Auto” position. The “Auto” setting activates light sensors that automatically turn your headlights on and off in response to ambient light conditions, such as dusk or cloudy weather. You should see the headlight icon appear on your dashboard when the system is active. 
Steps to activate automatic headlights:

1. 1. Locate the light control: . Opens in new tabFind the light switch, often on a lever next to the steering wheel (the turn signal stalk) or a dial on the dashboard. 
2. 2. Turn the control to “Auto”: . Opens in new tabRotate the dial or move the lever to the position marked with the word “Auto” or a symbol resembling an “A”. 
3. 3. Check the dashboard: . Opens in new tabA small light or symbol for the headlights will illuminate on your instrument panel, indicating the system is active. 

How automatic headlights work:

• Sensors: The system uses light sensors, usually on the dashboard or windshield, to detect changes in surrounding light levels. 
• Automatic operation: When the sensors detect it’s getting dark, the system automatically turns the headlights on. 
• Disengagement: When it gets light again, or when you manually select a different setting, the headlights turn off automatically.