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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a fog light relay?
Where can I get my fog light relay replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my fog light relay?
What happens if I don’t replace my fog light relay?
What is a fog light relay?
Can I replace my fog light relay myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a fog light relay?

You can expect an average total replacement cost of $68 for a fog light relay, with $20 for parts and $47 for mechanic labor. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace a fog light relay? In general, it takes around 0.4 hours for a certified mechanic to complete the job. Your mechanic will perform a preliminary inspection to determine if a replacement is necessary, then follow through with the full replacement.

Here’s an overview of fog light relay replacement costs for different vehicles:

Fog light relay replacement cost for various vehicles

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
November 16, 2024	Bernice, 23 Detroit, MI	Land Rover Discovery	$40	$18	$21	0.2 Hours
November 11, 2024	Alfred, 33 Fort Collins, CO	Oldsmobile Bravada	$44	$18	$26	0.2 Hours
November 7, 2024	Claudia, 39 Franklin, TN	Mitsubishi Mirage	$44	$18	$25	0.2 Hours
November 6, 2024	Ray, 40 Lancaster, CA	Pontiac Solstice	$46	$18	$27	0.2 Hours
November 4, 2024	Nathan, 44 Oklahoma City, OK	Suzuki Susuki XL7	$45	$18	$27	0.2 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my fog light relay replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Here are the two key parts you’ll need:

Fog light relay: This is the main component responsible for controlling the power supply to the fog lights. Ensure the relay matches the specifications of your car to ensure proper functionality. Approximate Cost: $10 to $50

Socket and wiring harness (Optional): Sometimes, a new socket or wiring harness may be necessary if the existing one is damaged or malfunctioning. Prepare to spend between $10 to $30 if you need to replace this.

You may also want to have a flashlight, multimeter, screwdriver set, plier set, socket set, and electrical tape. Don’t forget gloves and safety goggles!

Steps can vary between models, so read your owner’s manual before you begin the fog light relay replacement process. The manual should also include a list of parts with part numbers.

You can buy fog light replay replacement parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Brands we recommend are Dorman, ACDelco, and Standard Motor Products. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

OEM parts are manufactured by the original vehicle maker, assuring quality and compatibility, and often come with a warranty. However, they can be more expensive than aftermarket options.

On the other hand, aftermarket parts are more budget-friendly and offer a variety of choices, but quality may vary and warranties might not match OEM coverage. You can go either way—just make sure to find a high-quality, compatible part for your vehicle.

Where can I buy parts for my fog light relay replacement?

Online retailers like Amazon, and RockAuto offer an extensive selection of automotive parts, including fog light relays, with user reviews and detailed product descriptions to aid in your decision-making process.

If you prefer a more hands-on experience, you can visit local automotive parts stores like AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, NAPA Auto Parts, and others, where you can get immediate assistance and advice from knowledgeable store staff.

For those seeking OEM parts specifically tailored to their vehicle's make and model, the dealership parts department can supply genuine fog light relays, although the dealer price may be pricier than aftermarket options.

Additionally, specialty automotive stores and some local auto repair shops may also carry fog light relays and related components. Consider compatibility, customer reviews, and warranty options before making a purchase.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my fog light relay replaced?

With the rundown on 2,500+ vetted repair shops nationwide, Jerry's

GarageGuard™

can make the search for a mechanic to replace your fog light relay a lot easier.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from local shops using actual hourly rates. You’ll be able to budget for diagnostic fees and see reviews from previous customers to make sure you’ll be happy with your service.

Here’s a look at some of our vetted shops below—and you can download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

181 Reviews

Sunset Garage

601 Kains Ave, San Francisco, CA

Fog Light Relay Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$177

(Parts - $17, Labor - $160)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$185

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (650) 692-7011

182 Reviews

United Alignment Tire Center

11251 Burbank Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Fog Light Relay Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$102

(Parts - $17, Labor - $85)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (818) 980-8550

105 Reviews

Velasquez Auto Care - Palatine

1450 N Rand Rd, Palatine, IL

Fog Light Relay Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$122

(Parts - $17, Labor - $105)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$120

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (224) 326-1282

170 Reviews

North American Motors

20531 Mission Blvd, Oakland, CA

Fog Light Relay Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$132

(Parts - $17, Labor - $115)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (510) 635-9191

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my fog light relay?

Here are the basic steps of a fog light relay replacement:

Initial inspection: The mechanic will inspect the fog lights to confirm that the relay is faulty and needs replacement.

Disconnect battery: Before beginning any electrical work, the mechanic will

disconnect the vehicle's battery

to ensure safety.

Locate the relay: The mechanic will locate the fog light relay, which is typically in the vehicle's fuse box or relay panel.

Remove the old relay: Using the appropriate tools, the mechanic will carefully remove the old fog light relay from its socket.

Install the new relay: The new fog light relay, compatible with your vehicle's make and model, will be securely inserted into the socket.

Reconnect battery: After the replacement is complete, the mechanic will reconnect the vehicle's battery.

Test the fog lights: The mechanic will test the fog lights to ensure the new relay is functioning correctly.

Final inspection: A final inspection will be conducted to verify that the fog lights operate as expected with the new relay. In some cases, the mechanic may conduct a road test to ensure the fog lights perform optimally while driving.

Actual steps may vary slightly depending on your vehicle's make and model.

What happens if I don’t replace my fog light relay?

The immediate impact is that your fog lights won't function correctly, reducing visibility during

adverse weather conditions like fog

or heavy rain. This can compromise your safety and increase the risk of accidents.

Additionally, driving without properly functioning fog lights can make your vehicle less visible to others, posing safety concerns to you and other road users. Over time, a faulty relay might also cause electrical problems and potentially drain the battery.

If you can’t safely navigate in foggy conditions, you may be forced to pull over or call for towing.

What is a fog light relay?

A fog light relay is an electrical component used in automotive lighting systems to control the operation of the

fog lights

. It acts as a switch that allows or interrupts the power supply to the fog lights—and in some vehicles, the control module is responsible for controlling the fog lights.

When you activate the fog light switch, a low-current signal is sent to the fog lamp relay, which then activates a higher-current circuit to power the fog lights. It’s typically a 12-volt component. This design helps prevent excessive current flow through the switch, ensuring safe operation and extending the switch's lifespan.

The fog light relay plays a crucial role in turning the fog lights on and off, making it an essential part of the vehicle's lighting system, particularly in improving visibility during adverse weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow.

Remember, headlights and turn signals require different bulbs—and are controlled by a different relay. A fog light relay is designed to handle a specific amount of current, usually rated in amps.

Replacement parts are highly specific to each make and model, and you should make sure yours is in stock before you head to the shop

When should I replace the fog light relay on my car?

You should consider replacing the fog light relay on your car if you notice any of the following signs:

Fog lights not turning on: If you activate the fog light switch, but the fog lights do not turn on, it could indicate a faulty relay.

Intermittent operation: If the fog lights flicker or work inconsistently, it may be due to a worn-out relay.

Fog lights stay on: If the fog lights remain illuminated even when you've turned them off, the relay might be stuck in the closed position.

Burning smell or melting: A burning smell or melted plastic near the fog light relay could indicate overheating or electrical issues, necessitating replacement.

Visible damage: If the relay shows signs of physical damage or corrosion, it may need to be replaced.

Failed inspection: If your vehicle fails a safety inspection due to non-functional fog lights, the relay could be a likely culprit.

A clicking sound can be a sign of a bad fog light relay. If the relay is faulty or worn out, it may not be able to switch properly, resulting in repeated clicking sounds as it tries to engage.

If you encounter any of the above issues, have your fog light relay inspected by a qualified mechanic.

How often should a fog light relay be replaced?

With proper care and maintenance, fog light relays should last for several years before requiring replacement.

The replacement frequency for a fog light relay varies based on factors such as relay quality, usage frequency, and environmental conditions. Typically, fog light relays are durable and can last a long time under normal conditions. However, wear and tear due to electrical stress, heat, and vibrations may lead to issues like intermittent operation, dimmer light, or failure to turn on the fog lights consistently.

As a general rule, regular inspection during routine maintenance and addressing any fog light issues promptly can help determine if relay replacement is necessary.

Can I replace my fog light relay myself?

It's a straightforward task, but basic understanding and proper tools are essential. Consider your automotive background and safety precautions, like disconnecting the battery, before attempting the replacement.

Refer to the vehicle manual for guidance and assess warranty implications if applicable. Seek help from a qualified mechanic if you’re unsure about any step or lack the necessary experience.

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FAQs

What does a relay do for fog lights?

relay

for fog lights acts like a switch. When you turn on the fog light switch in your car, the relay gets the signal to turn on the fog lights.

It allows a larger current to flow through the fog lights, making them light up brightly. This helps ensure that the fog lights work properly and can improve visibility during bad weather conditions like fog or heavy rain.

What would cause my fog lights to not work?

A faulty fog light relay could cause your fog lights to malfunction. This means that the relay is not sending a signal to turn on the fog lights. A faulty fog light switch might be to blame, too.

Another common issue is burned-out fog light bulbs, as these bulbs can wear out over time and stop functioning. Blown fuses in the fog light circuit can also disrupt the power supply, rendering the lights inoperative.

Damaged wiring or connectors could interrupt the electrical flow to the fog lights, resulting in their non-functionality. A faulty alternator could be a factor, too.

Lastly, if you have an off-road vehicle like a Jeep, Honda Element, or Toyota RAV4, water ingress and excessive vibration can negatively impact your fog light relay.

If the problem isn't obvious, more complex electrical issues within the car's electrical system may be the root cause—consult an automotive electrician.

Where is the relay for fog lights?

In most cars, the fog light relay is typically located in the vehicle's fuse box or relay panel. These fuse boxes are usually found in the engine compartment, near the battery, or inside the cabin, usually beneath the dashboard or in the driver's side footwell.

To locate the fog light relay, consult your vehicle's owner's manual, as it will provide a diagram or description of the fuse box and relay panel locations. Additionally, some vehicles may have the relay labeled, making it easier to identify.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.