On most Ford Focus models, the tail lights illuminate when you set the exterior lighting control to Parking lights or to the main headlights, or automatically in Auto mode when ambient light is low. This guide explains how to operate the lighting controls and what to do if they don’t come on.
Where to find and how the lighting controls work
The Ford Focus uses a single exterior lighting control on the left side of the steering column. Depending on model year, you’ll see a rotary dial with positions such as Off, Auto, Parking Lights, and Headlights On. In Auto mode, the system uses a light sensor to switch the rear and front lights on as needed.
Manual operation: turning on tail lights yourself
Follow these steps to activate the tail lights manually using the lighting control.
- Locate the exterior lighting control on the dash, typically on the left side of the steering column.
- Turn the knob to the Parking Lights position (the icon with two small lights) to illuminate the tail lights and license-plate lights.
- To have the tail lights come on with the front headlights, rotate further to the Headlights On (or On) position.
- In models with Auto mode, set the switch to Auto; the tail lights will activate automatically when ambient light is low or when it’s dark outside.
- Test by checking the rear lights from outside the car or with a passenger verification to ensure they’re illuminated.
Using the correct lighting setting helps ensure you’re compliant with local laws and are visible to other drivers, especially at dusk, dawn, or night.
Understanding Auto mode and daytime running lights
Some Ford Focus models are equipped with Auto mode and daytime running lights (DRLs). When set to Auto, the system uses a light sensor to decide when to activate the rear tail lights and front headlights. DRLs are intended to increase daytime visibility, but they do not always make the rear tail lights as bright as night operation. If you rely on tail light visibility, ensure Auto is engaged or switch to Parking or Headlights On in low-light conditions.
Troubleshooting: tail lights won’t illuminate
If the tail lights do not turn on when expected, try these steps to diagnose the issue.
- Confirm the lighting switch is in the correct position (Parking Lights or Headlights On, or Auto in low light).
- Check the relevant fuses for the taillights/parking lights in the vehicle’s fuse box and replace any blown fuses with the correct rating from the manual.
- Inspect the rear taillight bulbs and license-plate bulbs for burnout and replace as needed. Some faults can affect multiple bulbs due to shared circuits.
- Check for damaged wiring, corrosion, or loose connections at the taillight assemblies and along the wiring harness.
- If the problem persists, schedule service with a Ford dealer or qualified technician to diagnose potential electrical faults or module issues.
Note that electrical faults can affect multiple lighting systems; a professional diagnostic may be required if fuses and bulbs are intact but the tail lights still do not function.
Summary
In summary, your Ford Focus tail lights are controlled by the exterior lighting switch. Use Parking Lights or Headlights On to illuminate the rear, or Auto mode to let the system manage lighting automatically in low light. If lights fail to come on, check the switch position, fuses, bulbs, and wiring, and seek professional assistance if needed.