Why do my headlights burn out so quickly?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I've seen countless vehicles come through our doors with various issues, and one common complaint is the frequent burnout of headlights. Understanding why this happens can save you time, money, and frustration. In this article, we'll explore the primary reasons behind quick headlight burnout and what you can do to prevent it.
Common Causes of Headlight Burnout
Headlights are essential for safe driving, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. However, they can burn out more quickly than expected due to several factors:
- Vibration: Excessive vibration from rough roads or poorly mounted headlights can cause the filament inside the bulb to break.
- Electrical Issues: Problems with the vehicle's electrical system, such as voltage spikes, can lead to premature burnout.
- Moisture: Water entering the headlight assembly can cause corrosion and damage the bulb, leading to failure.
- Heat: Overheating due to improper installation or using the wrong type of bulb can shorten the lifespan of headlights.
- Frequent On/Off Cycling: Constantly turning headlights on and off can stress the filament, causing it to fail sooner.
By understanding these common causes, you can take steps to mitigate the risk of your headlights burning out quickly.
Tips to Extend Headlight Lifespan
To help you get the most out of your headlights, consider the following tips:
- Choose Quality Bulbs: Invest in high-quality bulbs that are designed to last longer and withstand vibrations.
- Check Electrical System: Regularly have your vehicle's electrical system checked to ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Seal Headlight Assemblies: Ensure that your headlight assemblies are sealed properly to prevent moisture from entering.
- Use the Correct Bulb Type: Always use the recommended bulb type for your vehicle to avoid overheating.
- Avoid Frequent Cycling: Try to minimize the number of times you turn your headlights on and off unnecessarily.
Implementing these tips can significantly extend the lifespan of your headlights, ensuring safer driving conditions and reducing the frequency of replacements.
Conclusion
Headlight burnout can be a frustrating issue, but by understanding the causes and taking proactive measures, you can keep your headlights shining bright for longer. If you continue to experience problems, don't hesitate to visit Kevin's Autos for a thorough inspection and professional advice. Your safety on the road is our top priority!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a headlight last?
Headlight Bulb Lifespan
| Bulb Type | Max Brightness | Avg Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Halogen Bulbs | 150% | 14 months |
| HID Conversion Bulbs | 450% | 23 months |
| OE Xenon Bulbs | 200% | 20 months |
| LED Bulbs | 300% | 42 months |
What causes headlights to burn out quickly?
TEMPERATURE EXTREMES
If you often drive in an area that experiences cold temperatures, your headlight lifespan may be reduced. Bulb filaments become more brittle in cold conditions and are more susceptible to breakage, especially if accompanied by vibrations from rough roads and potholes.
How do you fix a headlight that keeps going out?
So to sum up, in repairing the headlight keeps going out issue, you may need to replace the faulty bulb, check the wiring, fuses and relay, and sealing any leaks in the headlight housing. Cleaning condensation from the inside of the housing may also solve the issue.
How to tell if a headlight relay is bad?
Before we move to the fourth. Sign subscribe for more insights on diagnosing electrical issues like this the fourth sign of a bad headlight relay is uneven or dim headlights.
Why do my lights go out so fast?
High voltage: When the supply voltage to your home is too high, it can cause light bulbs to burn brighter and have a significantly shorter lifespan. To check the voltage of a standard electrical outlet (120 volts), you can use either a multimeter or a voltage tester.
Why does my headlight keep failing?
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. Consult your owner's manual to locate the main fuse for the headlight circuit and replace that fuse with one having the same amp rating.
Why do my headlights suddenly go out?
Most total headlight failures are caused by a bad component like a fuse, relay, or module. Wiring problems can also cause both headlights to stop working. High beam headlights don't work or low beams don't work. The cause: A burned out bulb, or a problem with the high beam switch or relay.
How to prevent headlight failure?
Cloudy or dirty lenses can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your headlights. Invest time in keeping the lenses clean and clear. Use a mild detergent and a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime. Clear lenses not only enhance visibility but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.
How to make your headlights last longer?
To avert headlight oxidation and maintain clarity, it's recommended to park in the shade, wash the car regularly and occasionally sand the headlights. Assessing the strength of the headlight's light periodically ensures the light output is optimal for safe driving.
Why are my headlights not lasting?
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.
