Should I replace both headlights if one goes out?
As a car owner, dealing with a burnt-out headlight can be frustrating. You might wonder whether it's necessary to replace both headlights when only one has failed. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this common dilemma and provide you with practical advice based on years of experience in auto maintenance and repair.
Understanding Headlight Lifespan
Headlights, like any other component of your vehicle, have a limited lifespan. Typically, halogen headlights last about 450 to 1,000 hours, while LED headlights can last significantly longer, often exceeding 30,000 hours. However, it's important to note that headlights tend to dim over time, even before they burn out completely.
Reasons to Replace Both Headlights
Here are some compelling reasons to consider replacing both headlights at the same time:
- Balanced Lighting: Replacing both headlights ensures that your vehicle has uniform lighting. This is crucial for safe driving, especially at night or in poor weather conditions.
- Improved Visibility: A new headlight will provide brighter and clearer illumination compared to an old one, enhancing your visibility on the road.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While it may seem like an additional expense, replacing both headlights can save you money in the long run. If one headlight has failed, the other is likely to follow suit soon, meaning you'll be back at the shop sooner than you think.
- Time-Saving: Replacing both headlights at once saves you the hassle of returning to the mechanic shortly after replacing just one.
When to Replace Just One Headlight
There are situations where replacing only the burnt-out headlight may be sufficient:
- Budget Constraints: If you're on a tight budget, you might opt to replace just the failed headlight for the time being.
- Recent Replacement: If the other headlight was replaced recently and is still in good condition, it may not be necessary to replace it again.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is technically possible to replace just one headlight, replacing both is often the wiser choice for safety, visibility, and cost-effectiveness. If you're unsure about the condition of your headlights or need assistance, don't hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we are here to help you with all your auto service needs, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if one headlight goes out?
- Stay Calm and Safe : If you're driving, try to remain calm and pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
- Check the Headlight Switch : Ensure that the headlight switch is in the correct position.
- Inspect the Bulbs : Once stopped, check if the bulbs are burned out.
- Check the Fuses
Is one working headlight enough to drive?
Under California Vehicle Code Section 24400, a motor vehicle other than a motorcycle must have at least two headlamps. They must be turned on when driving in the dark and/or in inclement weather.
Is it OK to drive with one headlight out?
Yes, in most states, driving with one headlight out is illegal and can result in fines or penalties.
What happens if both headlights go out?
If neither of your headlights work it's time to do some detective work. Solution: If both headlights aren't working, it's unlikely that a bulb is at fault. The likely cause is a fuse, headlight relay, headlight switch, dimmer switch or a wiring fault. About the only cause that is an easy fix is a blown fuse.
Why are both my headlights burning out at the same time?
Vibrations from a rocky road or worn-out tires can cause the headlight's filament to break. They also happen when the bulb isn't mounted securely.. Touching the headlights repeatedly causes hot spots to form on the bulb. The physical contact causes uneven heating, so use gloves when handling the bulbs.
Why does one headlight randomly go out?
Why does my headlight keep going out? The likely culprits include a faulty bulb or mishandling during installation, electrical issues like blown fuses, faulty relays or wiring, headlight housing leak or condensation. Additionally, extreme temperatures can also lead to headlights not staying on.
Will AutoZone replace my headlight bulb?
Answer: While AutoZone does not typically provide headlight installation services, you can purchase a replacement bulb or headlight assembly from them, along with the necessary tools. The employees can then guide you through the process of changing your headlight.
Should I replace both headlights if one is out?
It's generally a good idea to replace both headlights when one burns out. This ensures consistent brightness and color, which can improve visibility and safety while driving. Headlights dim over time, so replacing them in pairs helps maintain even lighting on the road.
Do you have to buy a whole new headlight if the bulb goes out?
Some vehicles require simply replacing a bulb, while others might need an entirely new headlamp module when a light is damaged or burns out.
Does AutoZone replace headlights?
Answer: While AutoZone does not typically provide headlight installation services, you can purchase a replacement bulb or headlight assembly from them, along with the necessary tools. The employees can then guide you through the process of changing your headlight.
