During the Light Test, a total of nine vehicle lighting components are examined for functionality and correct adjustment in accordance with the requirements of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO). These include fog lights, high and low beams, reversing lights, and brake lights. Such a comprehensive assessment is crucial, as highlighted by the defect rate revealed in the latest test results.
In the 2024 Light Test, one in four passenger cars (25.3 per cent) was found to have lighting defects (compared to 27.4 per cent the previous year). For commercial vehicles, the defect rate was 33.1 per cent (previous year: 33.6 per cent). According to the ZDK and DVW, this means that more than one in three commercial vehicles on German roads is travelling with inadequate lighting.
Source: Central Association of the German Motor Trade | Status: November 2024
Further analysis showed that 22.9 per cent of commercial vehicles had defective headlights (previous year: 28 per cent). Headlights set too high, causing glare for oncoming traffic, were identified in 14.9 per cent of the inspected vehicles (previous year: 12.4 per cent). Conversely, reduced visibility due to headlights being set too low was found in 6.9 per cent of vehicles (previous year: 10.8 per cent). Additionally, 19.5 per cent of commercial vehicles had rear lights that were not fully functional (previous year: 11.5 per cent).
“The current defect statistics clearly show how important the Light Test remains, even in times of modern lighting systems,” said ZDK President Arne Joswig.
Kirsten Lühmann, President of the German Road Safety Organisation, added:
“The statistics underscore how critical visibility and being seen are for road safety. One-third of commercial vehicles with defective lighting is both alarming and avoidable. The Light Test remains an indispensable tool for enhancing safety on our roads—especially during the dark season, when regular vehicle lighting checks are crucial.”
In October 2024, approximately four million vehicles visited car dealerships, garages, and testing organisations for vehicle lighting inspections.