The fog lights on your 2018 Jeep Compass are important for driving in poor visibility conditions, such as heavy fog, rain, or snow.
But sometimes, you may want to turn them off maybe the weather has cleared, or you simply don’t need them on city streets.
Many Jeep owners are unsure how to control these lights, especially if they’re used to older or different models.
In this article, you’ll learn the simple steps to turn off the fog lights on your 2018 Jeep Compass, plus extra tips and troubleshooting advice to make sure your lights work exactly as you want.
Understanding Fog Lights On The 2018 Jeep Compass
Fog lights are mounted low on the front of your Jeep Compass, designed to cut through fog and reduce glare on the road. They help you see better when regular headlights reflect off water droplets or snowflakes. On the 2018 Jeep Compass, these lights are usually activated and deactivated with a switch on the turn signal lever. Some trims may have a slightly different setup, but the process is similar across all models.
Why You Might Want To Turn Off Fog Lights
You should turn off the fog lights when:
- Visibility is clear and you don’t need extra lighting.
- Local laws require fog lights to be off in normal driving.
- To save power and avoid unnecessary wear on bulbs.
- When approaching other drivers to prevent glare.
Some owners forget that leaving fog lights on all the time can be distracting or even illegal in some areas.
Step-by-step: How To Turn Off Fog Lights On A 2018 Jeep Compass
Turning off the fog lights is straightforward once you know where to look. Here’s how:
Step 1: Locate The Fog Light Control
On the 2018 Jeep Compass, the fog light control is integrated into the headlight control stalk (the lever on the left side of your steering wheel). Look for a small icon that looks like a lamp with a wavy line through it.
Step 2: Check Headlight Position
The fog lights can only be turned on or off when the headlights or parking lights are on. If your headlights are off, your fog lights will not activate, even if you try to switch them on.
Step 3: Turn Off The Fog Lights
- Push the fog light button or rotate the inner ring on the headlight stalk (depending on your trim).
- You should hear a soft click and see the fog light symbol turn off on your instrument cluster.
- If you can’t see the symbol, check from outside: The low-mounted lights should now be off.
Step 4: Confirm The Fog Lights Are Off
- Look for the fog light indicator on your dashboard. It should be off.
- If unsure, step out of your vehicle and check the front lights physically.
Step 5: Recheck In Automatic Mode
If your Jeep Compass headlights are set to Auto, the fog lights will only turn on if you manually activate them. Turning the fog light switch off should keep them off even in automatic mode.
Quick Troubleshooting
- If the lights don’t turn off, double-check the headlight position.
- Some trims require you to pull the lever out or push it in; try both if you’re unsure.
- Check your owner’s manual for your exact trim level instructions.
Fog Light Controls: Compass Trim Differences
The 2018 Jeep Compass comes in several trims: Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk. Each may have slight differences in lighting controls. Here’s a comparison:
| Trim | Fog Light Control Type | Standard or Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | Stalk ring (rotate) | Optional |
| Latitude | Stalk ring (rotate) | Standard |
| Limited | Stalk ring (rotate) | Standard |
| Trailhawk | Stalk ring (rotate) | Standard |
- Sport models may not have fog lights unless they were added as an option.
- Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk almost always have standard fog lights.
Common Mistakes When Turning Off Fog Lights
Even experienced drivers can make small errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Forgetting Headlight Position: Fog lights only work when headlights or parking lights are on. If headlights are off, fog lights can’t be toggled.
- Misreading the Indicator: The dashboard symbol for fog lights can be confused with other lights. It’s usually a green or yellow lamp with a horizontal line and three wavy lines.
- Not Rotating the Right Ring: Some drivers turn the wrong part of the lever—make sure you’re using the correct inner ring or button.
- Assuming Automatic Shutoff: Fog lights will stay on until you turn them off, even if you leave your car, unless you switch off the headlights entirely.
- Not Checking After Use: Always check the dashboard and the front of your vehicle to confirm the fog lights are off.
When Should You Use Fog Lights?
Fog lights are designed for low-visibility conditions. Using them at the wrong time can blind other drivers or get you a ticket. Proper times to use fog lights:
- Heavy fog
- Intense rain or snow
- Dust storms or smoke
Never use fog lights in clear weather or normal night driving, as they can cause glare for oncoming traffic.
Fog Light Indicator Symbols: What They Mean
It’s important to recognize the symbols on your dashboard. Here’s a quick guide:
| Symbol | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
 | Green | Front fog lights ON |
 | Amber/Yellow | Rear fog lights ON (if equipped) |
- If you see these symbols lit up, your fog lights are on.
- When off, these symbols disappear from your dashboard.
Advanced Tips For Managing Fog Lights
Turning off fog lights is simple, but here are some extra insights most beginners miss:
- Bulb Life: Turning fog lights off when not needed extends the bulb life. These bulbs can burn out faster if left on all the time.
- Battery Drain: Keeping extra lights on adds to battery usage, especially if you use them while parked with the engine off.
- Aftermarket Fog Lights: If you added fog lights yourself, the control process may differ. Always follow the instructions provided with your kit.
What If Fog Lights Won’t Turn Off?
If you have followed the steps and your fog lights remain on, there may be an electrical issue. Here’s what to check:
- Faulty Switch: Sometimes the control ring or button fails and needs replacement.
- Stuck Relay: Electrical relays can stick, keeping the circuit closed. A technician can quickly check and replace this part.
- Wiring Problems: Rare, but possible. If you see other light problems, get your wiring checked.
If you’re not comfortable with car electrical systems, visit a trusted mechanic or a Jeep dealership for help.
Legal Considerations
Many places have laws about when you can use fog lights. In some US states, it’s illegal to use them except in poor visibility.
Always check your local laws to avoid fines.
For more details, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers guidance on vehicle lighting: NHTSA Lighting Guide.
Quick Reference: Turning Off Fog Lights
Here’s a summary for quick checks:
- Start your Jeep and turn on the headlights or parking lights.
- Locate the fog light ring or button on the left stalk.
- Rotate or push to the “off” position.
- Check the dashboard indicator to confirm.
- Step outside if needed to double-check.
What If My 2018 Jeep Compass Doesn’t Have Fog Lights?
Some base models, like the Sport trim, may not have fog lights unless they were added as an option. If you don’t see a fog light icon on your control stalk or dashboard, your vehicle may not have them installed.
Can I Turn Off Fog Lights While Driving?
Yes, you can safely turn off your fog lights while driving. Just rotate the control ring or push the button on the left stalk.
Make sure you’re not distracted and do it when the road is safe.
What Should I Do If The Fog Light Indicator Stays On?
If the dashboard fog light symbol stays on after you have turned the control to off, check if the headlights or parking lights are still on.
If the symbol won’t turn off, there may be an electrical issue, and you should have your Jeep checked by a mechanic.
Are Fog Lights Required By Law?
In most places in the US, fog lights are not required. They are optional and meant for specific conditions. However, laws about their use vary. Always check your state or country’s rules.
Can I Replace Fog Light Bulbs Myself?
Yes, most Jeep Compass owners can replace fog light bulbs on their own. The bulb type is usually H11.
Access is from under the front bumper or by turning the front wheels. Always check your owner’s manual for the correct bulb and procedure.
Turning off the fog lights on your 2018 Jeep Compass is a simple process once you know where the controls are. Remember, only use them in poor visibility, and always check the dashboard indicator to make sure they’re off when not needed.
Taking these small steps helps keep you and other drivers safe on the road. If you ever have trouble, don’t hesitate to consult your manual or a professional. Safe driving!
