Many beginners behind the wheel sooner or later ask themselves a couple of key questions: what a leaf spring is and how to activate the lighting devices. At first glance, these topics are not related, but both of them are directly related to driving comfort and safety. Let's take a closer look at what a leaf spring is in a car's design, and also consider the procedure for turning on different types of headlights.

What is a leaf spring and what is it used for

A leaf spring is a component of the vehicle's running gear. Simply put, it is a long metal plate or several such plates connected into a single pack and bent in an arc shape. The main task is to absorb the load coming from the wheels and body, smooth out shocks, and make the vehicle's ride softer. In simple words, the leaf spring performs the function of an elastic element, allowing the car to more easily pass over road irregularities. Explaining what a car leaf spring is, it is important to mention: it is most often found on trucks, buses, and some SUVs, where increased strength and durability of the suspension are important. On passenger models, such elements are less common — over time, they were replaced by springs and more modern shock-absorbing devices. Externally, a leaf spring resembles a pack of curved steel strips that are laid on top of each other and fastened with clamps in the middle. The ends of the leaf spring are connected to the frame or body using special shackles. Such a scheme can withstand serious overloads and remain operational for a long time.

How to turn on the headlights in a car

Now let's move on to the second question — lighting. Without properly working headlights, driving in the dark or in poor visibility becomes dangerous. Let's consider how to turn on the headlights and what lighting modes exist.

Turning on the low beam

Low beam is the main mode of headlight operation. As a rule, the switch is located on the steering column lever on the left or on the panel near the steering column. To activate it, simply turn the knob from the zero position to the position with the lamp icon. At the same time, the corresponding indicator light will illuminate on the dashboard.

Fog lights: how to turn them on

Often drivers ask: how to turn on the fog lights. Usually, a separate button or a ring on the same steering column switch is provided for them. They only work when the parking lights or low beam are on. The symbol on the button resembles a lantern with three horizontal lines and a slanted line.

Rear fog lights

Rear fog lights make the car more visible to other road users in heavy fog. On the control unit, there is a separate button with an image of a lantern and lines directed to the right side. After pressing, an orange indicator lights up on the dashboard.

Features of turning on the headlights on the Nissan Qashqai

Owners of this crossover often ask: how to turn on the headlights on the Nissan Qashqai. The control here is traditional: on the steering column lever on the left, there are several positions — "off", "parking lights", "low beam". The desired mode is selected by turning the ring. For high beam, the lever should be pushed away from you. The fog lights are activated by an additional ring located on the same lever.

Summing up

So, we have figured out both questions. First, now it is clear what a leaf spring is and what this suspension unit looks like. It is a durable steel elastic part responsible for stability and smoothness of movement. Second, it has become clear how to turn on the headlights: low and high beam, fog lights, including on Nissan Qashqai vehicles. Understanding what it is — the leaf spring and lighting devices — helps to delve deeper into the car's structure and feel more confident behind the wheel in any situation.