How to Turn Fog Lights On in a Honda Civic

On most Honda Civics equipped with factory fog lights, turn the headlight switch to Parking or Low Beam, then press the fog light button on the lower-left dashboard (fog-lamp icon) or rotate/push the fog-light ring on the turn-signal/headlight stalk until the fog icon illuminates on the instrument cluster. If you don’t see a fog-light switch or bumper-mounted fog lamps, your Civic likely isn’t equipped with them.

Quick Step-by-Step

The following steps cover how to activate fog lights on most Civics that have them from the factory or via a Honda accessory kit. Controls vary slightly by model year and region, but the sequence is similar.

1. Switch the ignition to ON or start the car.
2. Set the headlight control to Parking Lights or Low Beams; fog lights will not work with High Beams in most Civics.
3. Activate the fog lights:
   

   • Press the fog-light button on the lower-left dash (icon with horizontal lines and a wavy beam), or
   • Rotate or press the fog-light ring on the headlight/turn-signal stalk to the fog icon, if your market uses a stalk control.

4. Confirm the fog-light indicator illuminates on the gauge cluster.
5. Turn them off when visibility improves or when switching to High Beams.

If the fog lights don’t turn on, ensure you’re not on High Beams and that your Civic actually has fog lamps and a corresponding switch. Many trims, especially recent U.S. models, omit fog lights entirely.

Where the Fog-Light Control Is, by Generation

Honda has changed fog-light availability and switch placement over the years and across regions. Use the guide below to find the likely control on your Civic.

• 2001–2005 (7th gen): If equipped or fitted with a Honda accessory kit, a fog-light button is typically on the lower-left dashboard panel near the traction/cruise controls.
• 2006–2015 (8th/9th gen): Most factory or dealer-installed fogs use a dedicated button on the lower-left dash. They operate only with Parking or Low Beams.
• 2016–2021 (10th gen): Trims with fog lights (varies by market; commonly on Sport/Sport Touring/Si and some EX/EX-T) usually have a fog-light button on the lower-left dash. In some regions, the control may be integrated into a ring on the headlight stalk.
• 2022–present (11th gen): In North America, factory fog lights are generally not offered on Civic; you will not find a fog-light switch on most trims. In some international markets or on dealer/accessory installations, a dash button or stalk ring may be provided.

Because market equipment differs, the definitive source is your owner’s manual for your model year and region. If you see blank switch covers where a fog button would be, your car likely lacks fog lights.

If They Don’t Turn On: Common Causes and Fixes

Use this checklist to diagnose why fog lights might not be working on your Civic.

• No switch or bumper lamps present: Your Civic likely isn’t equipped with fog lights.
• High Beams are on: Fog lights are usually disabled with High Beams; switch to Low Beams.
• Daytime running lights only: Rotate the headlight switch to Parking or Low Beams; DRLs alone won’t enable fog lights.
• Indicator doesn’t light: Check the fog-light fuse and bulbs/LEDs; consult the fuse diagram in the manual.
• Aftermarket kit installed: Verify the harness, relay, and ground are secure and that the kit’s control matches the instructions (some kits use a separate in-cabin rocker switch).

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, a quick inspection by a technician can confirm wiring, relay, or switch faults, especially on aftermarket setups.

When (and When Not) to Use Fog Lights

Fog lights are designed to improve near-field visibility in poor conditions. Use them judiciously and in accordance with local laws.

• Use in fog, heavy rain, blowing snow, or dust to illuminate the road edges and lane markers close to the car.
• Turn them off in clear conditions; the wide, low beam can cause glare for other drivers.
• Avoid using with High Beams; the combination reduces effectiveness and can be illegal.
• Know your local regulations: Some jurisdictions restrict use to specific weather conditions or require them to be paired with Low Beams.

Using fog lights properly maximizes visibility without creating unnecessary glare or legal issues.

Considering Aftermarket Fog Lights for a Civic Without Them

If your Civic doesn’t have fog lights, you can add an OEM-style accessory kit or an aftermarket system. Here’s what to know before you buy.

• Choose a model-year-specific kit for proper bezels and harness lengths.
• Favor kits with a relay, fused harness, and either a factory-style dash switch or an integrated stalk control (if supported).
• LED units offer better durability and lower current draw than halogens; ensure beam cutoff is appropriate to avoid glare.
• Professional installation is recommended to integrate with the ignition and headlight circuits safely.
• Confirm local regulations on auxiliary lighting and alignment.

A quality, vehicle-specific kit installed correctly will perform closer to factory equipment and maintain electrical safety and compliance.

Summary

To turn on fog lights in a Honda Civic, switch the headlights to Parking or Low Beams, then use the fog-light button on the lower-left dashboard or the fog-light control on the headlight stalk—if your car is equipped with fog lamps. Many newer North American Civics lack factory fog lights, so absence of a switch or bumper lamps likely means your vehicle doesn’t have them. Use fog lights only in poor visibility, and consult your owner’s manual for controls specific to your model year and market.

How to turn on fog lights on Honda Civic?

This is where you will control both your headlights. And fog lights. Two turn on your headlights. The headlights must be on to enable the fog. Lights.

Does a Honda Civic have fog lights?

From its sleek styling to its airy cabin, the 2024 Honda Civic Sedan is a joy to behold and even better to drive. With their swooping roofline and elongated hood, Civic Sedan casts a sporty silhouette. Available exterior features include: LED Fog Lights.

Where is the button for fog lights?

Fog light symbols – to turn them on or off – can usually be found on a button on the dashboard, on a steering wheel stalk, or next to the dial you use to control your regular lights.

How do I turn my fog lights on?

To turn on fog lights, first ensure your headlights are on. Then, locate the fog light switch, which is usually a button or dial near the headlight controls. The fog light symbol, a lamp with horizontal lines, will help you find it. Push or twist the switch to activate the fog lights. 
This video demonstrates how to turn on fog lights on a Honda CRV, including locating the switch and activating it: 54sHelpful DIYYouTube · Feb 4, 2024
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Headlights First: Fog lights typically won’t work unless your headlights (either low beams or parking lights) are already on. 
2. Find the Switch: The fog light switch is usually located on the steering column (often as a separate dial or ring on the headlight control stalk) or on the dashboard near the headlight controls. Some cars may have a button on the infotainment system. 
3. Identify the Symbol: Look for a symbol that looks like a headlight with horizontal lines through it. This symbol indicates fog lights. If the lines are to the left of the lamp, it’s usually the front fog lights; if they’re to the right, it’s the rear fog lights. 
4. Activate: Depending on the switch type, push the button or rotate the dial to activate the fog lights. Some cars require pulling the switch out or twisting a collar. 
5. Check the Dashboard: The fog light symbol on your dashboard should illuminate when the fog lights are on. 
This video shows how to turn on both front and rear fog lights on a VW: 58sLurgs How To GuidesYouTube · Nov 20, 2018