Best Fog Lights to Light Up Your Way | 2022 Review

Imagine this, you are driving to work in your car like any other day, but suddenly the road is covered in dense fog, making it extremely difficult to see virtually anything in front. At that moment, you will regret not spending the extra money and getting optional fog lights while ordering your new car. Don’t worry, though; it still isn’t too late to make sure you never find yourself in such a dangerous and unpredictable situation. There are plenty of aftermarket fog lights available for nearly all cars that do a great job improving visibility in tricky conditions.

Fog lights are cleverly designed to project a light beam low to the ground so that the road beneath the fog, dust, or mist is adequately illuminated. They are essential in low visibility conditions as light projected by your headlights can potentially reflect off the fog and bounce back right in your eyes, effectively making the situation even worse.

However, choosing the best set of fog lights for your car is tricky, as you need to consider several factors before making the final decision. To help you through this process, we have curated a comprehensive list of 8 of the best fog lights we could find.

Enjoy!

Best Fog Lights Reviews

1. HELLA ValueFit White Cube Driving Light — Budget Pick

Any conversation regarding aftermarket fog lights would be incomplete without appreciating the high-quality units manufactured by HELLA. The brand develops all kinds of automotive lighting and electronic components for aftermarket applications and every single thing they make is just perfect. The HELLA ValueFit fog light is an excellent example of the brand’s superior craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The lighting unit consists of a die-cast aluminum housing 4 high-performance LED bulbs capable of outputting 600 lumens with a total power consumption of merely 16 Watts. LEDs are handy in low visibility situations as they project a homogenous flood beam that instantly improves visibility.

You can mount this fog light on light bars of off-road vehicles, aftermarket bumpers, or even on your factory bumpers with the help of minor mods. Not only that, the HELLA cube fog light can withstand up to two hours submerged up to 30 feet deep, making it suitable for boats, jet skis, or other similar applications.

The HELLA ValueFit is one of the best budget fog lights currently on the market. The solid yet lightweight aluminum construction combined with plenty of mounting options makes it perfect for pretty much any vehicle—a no-brainer considering the super affordable price tag.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 5” X 4.1” X 4”
• Four high-performance LED setup
• Die-cast aluminum housing
• Emits 600 lumens flood light
• Color temperature: 6000K
• Sold individually

Pros

• Strong and durable aluminum housing
• Lightweight construction allows greater flexibility in terms of mounting options
• Low power consumption
• Emits a homogenous light pattern for optimum performance
• Comes with a stainless steel bracket for upright mounting
• Great value for money
• Water-resistant for up to two hours
• 1-year limited manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Not sold as a pair

2. HELLA 500 Series Fog Lamp Kit

The 500 Series Fog Lamp Kit is another excellent product from HELLA. You get two 6.4” lamps, each fitted with 12V halogen bulbs rated at 55 Watts. The lamps offer a classic circular look that goes a long way in enhancing your vehicle’s overall appearance as well. The lighting units come with aluminum vapor-coated reflector surfaces to provide optimum light distribution on the road. However, the back casing in each lamp is constructed from ABS plastic.

The kit also includes two stone shields, the wiring harness, switch, relay, and universal mounting hardware for easy and quick installation on your car. The zinc-coated steel brackets are designed to stay on even during rough driving, making the setup suitable for off-roading and motorsport activities. You can even adjust the angle at which the lamps will project light forward making them suitable for fog applications but also as projectors in race settings.

HELLA’s 500 Series fog lamp kit will give your car some kind of a retro look, thanks to its exemplary and simplistic design language. It is particularly suitable for Jeeps or other off-road vehicles, but installing them on an old Porsche 911 would bring that 80s Group B rally vibe straight back.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 7.91” X 7.6” X 8.7”
• Each lamp is fitted with halogen bulbs
• ABS plastic housing with aluminum vapor-coated reflectors
• Uses 12V halogen bulbs rated at 55W each
• Emits warm light
• Kit includes two lamps, two stone shields, two halogen bulbs, wiring harness, switch, relay, and detailed instruction manual

Pros

• Comes with universal mounting hardware
• High value for money
• Suitable for off-road vehicles and SUVs
• Enhances your car’s appearance
• Less eye intrusion for oncoming road users
• Comes with protective branded shields

Cons

• ABS plastic housing not as durable as aluminum

3. Rigid Industries D-Series Pro Spot Surface Mount Lights

Those willing to spend a little more should consider Rigid Industries’ D-series fog lights. This brand’s reputation is so well-established that Toyota even offers Rigid Industries fog lamps as part of standard factory equipment on some of its vehicles. And worth mentioning, the brand’s new D-series uses advanced LED technology delivering up to 102% more raw lumens than the previous version—if you like them before, you’ll like them even more now!

Rigid’s D-series fog light may be tiny at 3″ X 3″, but it packs a hefty punch. You also get several safety features like over/under voltage, reverse polarity, and RFI/EMI protection. It can also handle severe shocks, vibrations, dust, and water without any significant issues.

The D-series Pro Sport lineup offers a high-grade aluminum alloy construction for achieving a healthy balance between sturdiness and weight. The casing is also powder-coated using a UV-resistant material to preserve the housing’s immaculate black finish even years later. You even get an impact-resistant polycarbonate lens to protect the sensitive LED unit from flying rocks.

Rigid’s D-series fog light may cost more than the previous models, but the advanced design, tougher construction, and higher light output make it worth the premium. Plus, the lifetime limited warranty only sweetens the deal.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 6” X 6” X 5”
• Uses advanced LED technology
• Aluminum alloy housing with polycarbonate lens
• Emits 3168 raw lumens light
• 30W power consumption
• Kit includes one light, stainless steel U-shaped bracket, vibration isolators, wiring harness with switch, and waterproof connector

Pros

• Pressure equalizing vent to prevent condensation
• Offers over/under voltage and reverse polarity protection
• SAE compliant for shock and vibrations
• Solid and long-lasting housing
• 50,000+ hours lifespan
• Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

• Costs more than previous models

4. ARB 3500910 LED Fog Light Kit

The ARB 3500910 LED fog light kit features much more modern and aesthetically pleasing lighting units. One reason for this can be the black PCB board used to mount the lights and the dark shade providing a stealthier look. The Edison LED units emit 6000K cool white light with a brightness rating of 240 lumens each, a significant improvement compared to older halogen versions.

But the improvements aren’t limited to the quality of the light; the newer variant also consumes less power and is ECE R19/R10, ROHS, SAE DOT compliant. ARB’s fog light kit can withstand dust and water ingress, making it suitable for use in light to medium off-road and motorsport applications.

Also worth mentioning, the PCB board is protected on one end by glass-filled nylon housing, a material with an exceptionally low thermal expansion rate. On the other side, you get an impact-resistant polycarbonate lens—perfect for your next ride off the beaten paths.

Even though it is designed specifically for ARB aftermarket bumpers, the 3500910 fog light kit offers the ability to fit any vehicle using the included Deutsch connectors and wiring harness. If you are looking for better than most fog lights without breaking the bank, look for ARB’s. Their superior light quality and ability to withstand rough use makes them a pretty good bet for off-roaders.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 9.84” x 6.3” x 5.3”
• Uses two Edison 2016XD LED drivers mounted on a black PCB board
• Glass-filled nylon housing with polycarbonate lens
• Emits 240 lumens light
• Color temperature: 6000K
• 4.7W power consumption (per light)
• Kit includes two lighting units, Deutsch connectors, and a wiring loom

Pros

• Attractive black color scheme
• Large surface area helps in optimum road coverage
• 50,000 hours total lifespan
• Lightweight yet durable fog lights
• Extremely low power consumption
• Universally compatible
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Prone to condensation inside the lens

5. KC HiLites Apollo Pro Series Fog Light Kit — Editor’s Pick

The KC HiLites Apollo Pro Series fog light kit consists of two 5″ circular Apollo Pro lights fitted with Halogen bulbs. These unique lights feature a vintage and rustic design that goes well even on modern cars. Even the 55W halogen bulbs may seem a little outdated compared to their LED counterparts, but they do the job, as is evidenced by the 280m beam distance and high brightness output.

KC’s Apollo Pro Series fog lights boast a black Polymax housing manufactured in the United States. Polymax is a specially engineered polycarbonate material known for its high strength, toughness, and heat resistance qualities. The halogen bulb is protected by an optical quality clear glass lens adorned with a KC-branded stone guard attachment.

In addition to the two primary 5″ lighting units, the Pro Series Fog Light Kit also includes a high-grade wiring harness, weatherproof connectors, mounting brackets, and an illuminated switch for optimum visibility even at nighttime.

The KC HiLites fog light kit may be simple in construction with arguably outdated technology, but the fact of the matter is, it just works. It works so well that we decided to award it the coveted “Editor’s Pick” title.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 4.88” x 5.5” x 2.88”
• Uses halogen bulbs with polished optical reflectors
• Polymax black plastic housing with clear glass lens
• Emits 1450 raw lumens
• 280m beam distance
• 55W power consumption
• Kit includes two lighting units, weatherproof connectors, and wiring harness, mounting hardware, and an illuminated switch

Pros

• Easy to install and use
• Goes well with modern and classic vehicles
• IP67 rated housing material
• Comes with built-in stone guards
• High value for money
• 1-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Halogen bulbs may need frequent replacement

6. KC HiLites C-Series C3 LED System

If halogen bulbs are not your cup of tea, KC also offers a LED fog light system improving on the previous model. Meet the C-Series system featuring the brand’s time-tested C3 housing fitted with Osram LEDs. The special LEDs are designed to deliver a super bright beam while providing maximum efficiency, thanks to the onboard thermal management system with aluminum core PCBs. The result is a lighting system that consumes merely 12 Watts of energy in exchange for 1080 raw lumens of bright light.

A particularly unique thing about these LEDs is that they emit Amber light to get the best visual contrast when faced with poor visibility conditions. In addition, the Osram LEDs can throw their beam as far as 219m ahead to improve visibility.

Each of the main lighting units features a die-cast aluminum housing structure for optimum strength while keeping the weight as low as possible. And to make sure the high-tech LED units are protected against rocks and tree branches, KC chose to go with durable and scratch-resistant Lexan lenses.

The KC HiLites C-Series LED fog light system is an excellent alternative for those not keen to having to deal with the unreliability of halogen bulbs. Of course, LED models are somewhat pricier but they also offer much better longevity and a more modern look.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 3.22” X 3.42” X 3.14”
• Uses Osram LEDs with aluminum core PCBs
• Die-cast aluminum housing with Lexan lenses
• Emits 1080 raw lumens
• 219m beam distance
• 12W power consumption
• Kit includes two C3 LED lighting units, wiring harness, switch, and mounting hardware

Pros

• Robust, reliable, and lightweight aluminum housing
• Universal mounting hardware included
• Highly efficient LED setup thanks to an integrated thermal management system
• Superior optics
• Amber LEDs for better illumination
• 1-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Amber color is not for everyone

7. PIAA 5370 Black LED Fog Lamp Kit

Moving to the premium end of the range, we have the PIAA 5370 fog lamp kit, an ultra-heavy-duty kit featuring lighting units made of durable cast aluminum and equipped with clear polycarbonate lenses. The aluminum housing also extends over the front lens to act as a stone guard.

PIAA’s LED setup is unlike anything you have ever seen, thanks to the brand’s innovative Reflector Facing Technology (RFT). RFT allows the brand to place their LED units facing rearward, contrary to nearly all other lighting systems. The light beam is then projected out front with the help of cleverly designed multi-surface reflectors. PIAA has found this method to be much more effective and precise compared to conventional forward-facing LEDs.

These 3.5” diameter fog lamps are SAE-F compliant and come with an IP67 rating, meaning that the fog light is safe from dust or sand ingress and can even withstand at least 30 minutes underwater up to 1m deep.

Thanks to its ability to tolerate up to 10G vibrations, PIAA’s LED fog lamp kit is suitable for heavy-duty off-road and motorsport applications. Its Reflector Facing Technology may seem quirky at first, but actually makes a noticeable difference in the real world.

Try them, you’ll thank us later!

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 3.5” X 2.9” X 3.5”
• Uses rearward-facing high-power LEDs
• Cast aluminum housing with clear polycarbonate lenses
• Color temperature: 6000K
• SAE-F and IP67 compliant with a 10G vibration rating
• 6W power consumption (per lamp)
• Kit includes two LP530 lights, wiring harness, relay, switch, and fuse

Pros

• Unique and innovative rearward-facing internal design
• Perfect for hardcore off-roading use
• Rugged and sturdy housing
• Piaa-branded stone guard
• Superior beam distribution and control
• Two years manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Costs more than other models

8. HELLA Rallye 012206021 4000 X LED — Premium Pick

HELLA is back with yet another stunning fog light. This time, with the famous Rallye 4000 X model specially built to handle massive jumps, rough terrain, adverse weather conditions, and any other abuse any rally stage can throw at it. A significant part of this fog light’s incredible strength comes from the high-quality aluminum housing that does a great job protecting the sensitive LED components within.

Speaking of LEDs, each HELLA Rallye 4000 X fog light uses two high-performance LEDs resulting in a combined brightness output of 760 effective lumens while consuming merely 40 Watts power. You also get an evenly distributed beam pattern and optimum road illumination, thanks to double internal reflectors.

It is no secret that even high-output LEDs are susceptible to internal heating during heavy use. To ensure this problem doesn’t get out of safe limits, HELLA’s fog light comes with cooling ribs integrated into the design to help with passive heat dissipation.

The HELLA Rallye 4000 X LED is by far the best fog light on this list due to its advanced LEDs, solid construction, and high lumen output. The considerably high price tag may not agree with everyone’s budget, but those who can afford it should definitely go for it. After all, quality always comes at a price. But if you want the best fog lights out there, these are the ones.

Highlighted features

• Fog light dimensions: 5.7” X 5.7” X 5”
• Uses two high-performance LEDs
• High-grade aluminum housing
• Emits 760 lumens white light
• Color temperature: 6000K
• 40W power consumption
• Sold individually

Pros

• Compact and lightweight fog light
• Comes with sturdy aluminum mounting bracket
• High brightness output
• Long LED lifespan
• Cooling ribs for optimum heat dissipation
• Low power consumption

Cons

• On the expensive side

Types of Fog Lights

Even though all fog lights have the same goal—to illuminate the road in front— they have different ways of doing it. Based on the type of light bulb or element used, fog lights can be classified into three main categories:

Halogen bulbs

Halogen bulbs are basically advanced incandescent lights that use halogen gas to create bright light with the help of a chemical reaction. The tungsten filament present inside heats up emitting a bright white lights. But in the process, the filament slowly evaporates and combines with the halogen gas, thus creating a tungsten-halogen molecule. After the combustion, the tungsten is redeposited on the filament and start the process over again. This characteristic is allows halogen light to last much longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs. However, halogen bulbs run at high internal temperatures and still have relatively short lifespans compared to other modern types.

LED lights

Most of us know LED lights as the up-and-coming innovation in the electric industry that is better than halogen bulbs in every single way imaginable. LEDs produce light by passing electricity through a semiconducting substance emitting photons in the process. These lights offer higher efficiency, a longer service life, reduced environmental impacts, better reliability, and unmatched versatility.

HID lights

High-Intensity Discharge light bulbs produce light by creating an electric arc between two electrodes. They also contain an inert gas, most often than not xenon, placed in a glass tube to facilitate the electric arc. However, HID lights have one major disadvantage leading to their slow and steady decline over the years; they require the use of a separate ballast—and those are super pricey and frequently need to be replaced..

What to Look for When Buying Fog Lights

Power consumption

Installing an aftermarket fog light on your car means making certain modifications to the wiring architecture so the light can draw power from the main battery. To ensure this doesn’t result in any unwanted effects, pick a fog light with low power consumption so that your battery isn’t stretched beyond its limit.

Brightness output

While going for a fog light with low power consumption, don’t neglect its brightness output. A good aftermarket fog light must provide a reasonable balance between power consumption and brightness output.

Type of bulb

As specified in the previous subtitle, fog lights mainly use three different types of bulbs. However, when you are looking to get low power consumption with high brightness output, LEDs are the way to go. They are much more technologically advanced and offer several advantages over other bulb types.

Build quality

Since a fog light is installed on the exterior of a vehicle, it will be exposed to adverse weather conditions, dust & water, and depending on how far from the road you like to go, severe shocks & vibrations. For that purpose, pick a fog light with a solid and reliable outer body. Of course, it is a valuable bonus if the model is certified by known standardization institutions like SAE.

Appearance

Last but not least, even appearance should be considered while choosing the best fog lights for your vehicle. For example, certain body styles are better suited to round fog lamps instead of square ones and vice versa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it advisable to keep my fog lights on all the time?

It depends.

When driving on public roads, you must only use your fog lights when you absolutely need them to illuminate the road ahead appropriately. Otherwise, you can risk disrupting other drivers and possibly blinding them if your fog lights are powerful enough

However, when driving off-road, or in a rally setting, I would never turn that switch off.

How do I install fog lights on my car?

Installing a set of fog lights on your vehicle is no rocket science. Anyone with decent auto mechanic skills and basic knowledge about how to read car wiring diagrams can do it. Not to mention that most aftermarket fog lights come with all the necessary mounting brackets and other hardware.

The first step would be to decide the appropriate mounting place. For use on public roads, it is advisable to mount your fog lights below the main headlamps for optimum illumination; bumpers or lightbars are the preferred spots. Only if you plan to only use them in off-road settings should you mount them on a roof rack.

The next step would depend on the specific model you buy, so the best place to look for guidance is the included instruction manual. Of course, you can also get an experienced mechanic to do it if you don’t have the time or patience. But if you can, we highly recommend you do it yourself as the satisfaction of a job well done makes it all worth the effort.

Verdict

Fog lights are a must-have on every vehicle as they play a significant role in illuminating the road in case of dense fog, mist, or other adverse weather conditions. However, you must find the best fog lights for your vehicle by analyzing your needs beforehand.

If you ask me, the KC HiLites 5″ Apollo Pro Series Kit are the best fog lights for regular use. The advanced halogen setup combined with robust black housing and stone guards make for a great package at a pretty good price. However, those with a little more budget should go for the HELLA Rallye 4000 X LED model for unmatched performance and efficiency—and not gonna lie here; they also look pretty cool!