Side Marker Lights Operation And Functionality

Side Marker Lights: Operation And Functionality

What is a side marker light? How does it operate? Why do you need it? If these are your questions, we've got your back! Check out the article to know more.

Side marker light, does it ring a bell? I’m sure many of you have heard about it but aren’t quite sure of what is it. Allow me to explain what this light is, how it functions and what to do to keep it safe.

So, what is a side marker light?

Side marker lights are types of light that are attached to the front and rear sides of motorized vehicles and trailers. Their function is to add some more lights along with the headlights for the drivers to see and drive safely.

The functionality As I mentioned earlier, side marker lights illumine to provide light and protect both the driver and the surrounding from potential accidents. Side marker lights are usually installed in cars, buses, and trucks.

However, the credibility of such lights is questionable. And why is that? Because these dimly lit lights barely provide any illumination and that’s a pet peeve for many car owners. That’s why they don’t want to waste bucks on such lights.

What does it consist of?

There are two types of bulbs that a side marker consists of. One is the classic carbon filament bulb and the other is the LED encased in a frame. The frame is small and attaches directly to the vehicle’s front fender and rear quarter panel. Enclosed with the help of screws or snap retainers. You can buy both filament and LED side marker lights for truck, car, trailer, etc.

Power and operation Side marker lights are installed with single wires. Its thickness is 16 gauge, leading from the bulb socket to the parking light wire, tail lights or main headlights wire loom. They require the standard automotive 12 volts to operate and are activated when the headlights illuminate.

What does the law say about side markers?

Some parts of the world such as the United States state that side marker lights are required. The law initially required lights on vehicles manufactured after 1 January 1968. Later the date got changed to 1 January 1970. However, if installed in the US, the lights are required to be brighter and visible through a larger horizontal angle than US side markers.

The law of the US also states that the lens of a side marker should be made of high impact, translucent plastic. They are also required red in color.

Unlike the US and Canada, many European countries allow side markers but they are mandatory.

Conclusion If you live outside of the USA, you don’t need to use a side marker light if you don’t find it useful. But it’s always best to keep them, you never know when you end up needing them. If by any chance your headlights get broken, these lights can prove beneficial by providing some illumination no matter how dim it is.