Research from eBay shows that nearly two-thirds of drivers (60%) misuse their fog lights. The DVSA states fog lights should be used when visibility drops below 100 metres, yet over 13% of Brits activate them when visibility is under 300 metres, risking a £50 fine.
Following the clock change on 26 October, the survey revealed that 15% of drivers check their fog lights monthly, while 24% never inspect them, relying solely on their annual MOT. Drivers with faulty lights risk fixed penalties of £50 or more severe fines for significant violations.
Furthermore, about 48% of Brits use high beam headlights indiscriminately, risking charges of ‘Driving Without Due Care,’ which can result in a £100 fine and penalty points. A fifth of respondents feel uneasy about sourcing replacement headlight bulbs, but eBay’s My Garage feature can assist them in finding compatible parts easily.
Abir Tewari from eBay emphasised the importance of understanding vehicle lighting, especially as winter nights approach. A DVSA request showed significant MOT failures due to lighting issues, with over 4.5 million failures recorded linked to ‘lamps.’
The top lamp-related failures included:
– Position lamps not working: 767,167
– Stop lamps not working: 489,953
– Misaligned headlamp aim: 470,058
eBay noted that the H7 bulb was the most searched, with classic MINI headlights leading in enquiries, followed by requests for fog lights and other vehicles. To help ensure drivers’ lights are working this winter, eBay is offering 20% off selected lighting products from 27 October to 7 November. https://www.ebay.co.uk/e/motors/4325-vehicle-essentials
KEY POINTS…
- Misuse of Fog Lights in the UK: Research from eBay indicates that about 60% of drivers misuse their fog lights, often activating them improperly, which can result in fines and safety risks.
- Fog Light Usage Regulations and Risks: The DVSA states fog lights should only be used when visibility drops below 100 metres, but many drivers activate them under less severe conditions, risking fines of £50 or more for improper use.
- Frequency of Fog Light Checks and Penalties: While 15% of drivers check their fog lights monthly, 24% never inspect them outside annual MOT checks, risking penalties for faulty lights during inspections.
- High Beam Headlight Usage and Common Issues: Nearly half of drivers use high beams inappropriately, risking fines and penalty points; eBay’s My Garage feature can help drivers find replacement bulbs easily.
- Lighting Failures and eBay’s Support Offers: Lighting issues are a major cause of MOT failures, with over 4.5 million failures recorded, and eBay offers a 20% discount on lighting products to help drivers prepare for winter.
