Turn on the low-beam headlights, then activate the fog lights using the headlight switch or a dedicated fog-light button, depending on your TL’s year and trim. The fog lights should illuminate and an indicator on the dashboard will light up when they’re active. If your model uses a separate dash button, press it while the headlights are on.
Common activation methods
The Acura TL typically uses two main ways to enable fog lights. One relies on the headlight control knob on the left side of the steering column; the other uses a dedicated fog-light button on the dash in some trims. Use the method that matches your vehicle’s setup.
- Turn the headlight switch to the On or Auto position so the headlights are shining.
- If your TL uses the stalk method, gently pull the outer part of the headlight control knob outward until the fog light symbol lights up on the dash.
- Check the dashboard for the fog-light indicator to confirm they are on.
- To turn them off, push the knob back in (or press the dash button a second time if you’re using the dedicated switch).
Note: This stalk-based method is common on many TL models, but some trims place a separate fog-light button on the dash near the headlight control. If pulling the knob doesn’t activate the fog lights, look for the dedicated button.
Using a dedicated fog-light button (some trims)
On certain Acura TL trims, fog lights are controlled by a separate switch located on the dash near or below the steering column. Ensure the headlights are on before activating the fog lights with this method.
- Turn the headlights to the On or Auto position.
- Press the fog-light button (the icon resembles a lamp with horizontal lines and slanted beams) to activate the fog lights.
- Look for the fog-light indicator on the dashboard to confirm they are on.
- Press the button again to turn them off.
In trims with both control options, the dash indicator will behave the same way, signaling when the fog lights are active.
Year-by-year notes
2004–2008 Acura TL
For many 2004–2008 TL models, fog lights are activated by pulling the left-hand headlight switch outward after you’ve turned the switch to the On position. Push the switch back in to turn them off. A dashboard indicator should illuminate when the fog lights are on.
2009–2014 Acura TL
In the 2009–2014 TL range, the same stalk method works on most trims, with some variants including a dedicated fog-light button on the dash. If you don’t see the pull-out mechanism, look for the separate fog-light button and use it with the headlights on.
Troubleshooting and tips
If the fog lights won’t turn on, verify that the headlights are already on (low beam or Auto) and that you’re using the correct control for your trim. If signs fail to illuminate, consult the owner’s manual for your exact year and trim, or have a dealership inspect for bulb, fuse, or wiring issues. Fog lights are intended for use in foggy, rainy, or snowy conditions and may be restricted by local laws when visibility is good.
Summary
Turning on Acura TL fog lights generally requires the headlights to be on, followed by either pulling the headlight switch outward (the most common method) or pressing a dedicated fog-light button on the dash in some trims. The exact control can vary by year and trim, so if you’re unsure, check the owner’s manual or inspect the dash for the fog-light indicator to confirm activation. Practice in a safe area to familiarize yourself with your specific model’s controls.