Where the light switch is located and what it controls
The 2013 Hyundai Veloster light switch is a stalk mounted on the left side of the steering column, just below the turn signal lever. Pulling the stalk toward you turns on the headlights; twisting the end of the stalk controls the high beams. The dial at the end of the stalk has three positions: off, parking lights only, and full headlights.
The same stalk also controls the fog lights if your Veloster came equipped with them. A separate knob on the dashboard, usually to the left of the steering wheel, adjusts the brightness of your instrument cluster and interior lights. The dome light above the driver's seat has its own switch with three positions: off, on, and automatic (which turns the light on when a door opens).
Key Takeaways
- The headlight and fog light control is a stalk on the left side of the steering column that you pull toward you to turn on lights.
- The high beam lever is twisted at the end of the same stalk, and pushing it away from you flashes the headlights.
- Interior light brightness is controlled by a separate dial on the dashboard, not the steering column stalk.
- If the lights do not respond when you operate the stalk, check the fuse panel under the dashboard on the driver's side before assuming the switch itself has failed.
How to operate the headlight and fog light controls
To turn on your parking lights, rotate the dial at the end of the stalk to the first position (usually marked with a parking light symbol). To turn on the full headlights, rotate it to the second position. The lights will stay on as long as the dial is in that position and the ignition is on.
To set up the high beams while driving, pull the stalk toward you. The high beams will stay on until you release it. To flash the headlights at another vehicle, push the stalk away from you briefly. If your Veloster has fog lights, they are controlled by a separate button or switch, often located on the dashboard or integrated into the headlight stalk depending on your trim level.
Replacing a faulty light switch stalk
If the stalk does not respond when you pull or twist it, or if the lights flicker when you operate it, the switch may need replacement. The stalk is held in place by a single screw or clip on the underside of the steering column. You will need to remove the plastic shroud around the column first by unclipping it or removing a few screws.
Once the shroud is off, locate the fastener holding the stalk in place. Disconnect the electrical connector behind the stalk by pressing the release tab and pulling it straight out. Slide the old stalk out and insert the new one, reconnect the electrical connector, and reinstall the shroud. A replacement stalk for a 2013 Veloster typically costs between $40 and $120 depending on whether you buy OEM (Hyundai factory) or aftermarket parts.
If you are not comfortable working under the steering column, a Hyundai dealer or independent mechanic can perform this replacement in under an hour. The labor cost varies by shop but is usually between $50 and $150.
Checking and replacing fuses related to the lighting system
Before replacing the switch itself, check the fuses that control the lighting circuits. The 2013 Veloster has a fuse panel under the dashboard on the driver's side, behind a removable cover. Open the cover and look for the diagram printed on the inside, which shows which fuse controls which system.
Fuses related to headlights, parking lights, and interior lights are usually labeled clearly. A blown fuse will have a broken wire visible inside the plastic casing. If you find a blown fuse, pull it straight out and replace it with a new one of the same amperage (the number is printed on the fuse). Never use a fuse with a higher amperage than the original, as this can cause electrical damage.
If the fuse blows again after replacement, there is likely a short circuit or other electrical problem that requires professional diagnosis. Do not keep replacing fuses in this case.
Interior light brightness and dome light operation
The dashboard dial that controls interior light brightness is usually located to the left of the steering wheel or on the steering column itself. Rotate it clockwise to increase brightness and counterclockwise to decrease it. Some models allow you to rotate it all the way to turn the lights off completely.
The dome light above the driver's seat has a three-position switch: off, on, and automatic. In automatic mode, the light turns on whenever any door opens and turns off a few seconds after all doors close. If the dome light stays on constantly or does not turn on at all, check that the switch is in the correct position before assuming the bulb or wiring is faulty.
Common problems and when to seek professional help
The most common issue with the light stalk is that it becomes loose or unresponsive after years of use. This is usually caused by wear inside the switch mechanism and requires replacement of the stalk itself. Another frequent problem is that one function works but another does not — for example, the headlights work but the high beams do not. This often points to a specific contact inside the switch that has worn out.
If multiple lighting functions fail at once, or if the lights flicker when you turn the stalk, the problem is more likely to be in the wiring or fuses than in the switch. If you replace the fuse and the problem persists, or if you are uncomfortable working with the steering column, take your Veloster to a Hyundai dealer or trusted mechanic for diagnosis. Electrical problems can be difficult to trace without proper tools and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my headlights turn off when I turn off the ignition?
This is normal behavior. The 2013 Veloster is designed to turn off all lights when you shut off the engine for safety and to prevent battery drain. If your lights stay on after the ignition is off, check that the light stalk dial is in the off position.
Can I replace the light switch stalk myself if I have never done it before?
Yes, it is a straightforward job that requires only a screwdriver and takes about 15 to 20 minutes. The main challenge is accessing the area under the steering column. If you are uncomfortable working in that space or if you do not have basic tools, a mechanic can do it quickly and inexpensively.
What does it mean if the headlights flicker when I pull the stalk?
Flickering usually indicates a worn contact inside the switch or a loose electrical connection. Check the fuse first to rule out an electrical circuit problem. If the fuse is good, the stalk likely needs replacement.
Is there a way to keep the headlights on after I turn off the engine?
The 2013 Veloster does not have a built-in feature to keep headlights on after shutdown. If you need the lights to stay on for a short time, you can leave the ignition in the accessory position (one click before fully off) without starting the engine.
Where can I buy a replacement light switch stalk for my 2013 Veloster?
Hyundai dealerships carry OEM stalks, which are may provide to fit and work correctly. Online retailers like RockAuto, Amazon, and eBay also sell aftermarket versions at lower prices. Make sure the part number matches your model year and trim level before ordering.