4 Common Headlight Problems And How To Fix Them From Northeastern Ohio's Automotive Headlight Experts

Headlights aren't always something that we typically think about when driving on the road, but they are extremely important for the obvious reasons one might think of.  Just like any other light bulb, your car's headlights can experience the same problems.  That is why the headlight automotive service experts at Bob Sumerel Tire Co. have made this list on how to fix the 4 most common headlight problems.

1. Only One Headlight Works: Possibly the most common out of the 4 problems listed, this can be the result of a couple different factors.  Just like light bulbs in your house, car headlight bulbs have limited lifespans based on the hours of use.  The typical headlight will normally last between 600 and 2,000 hours of being on, which equates to around 6 years of use for the average person driving between 12,000 and 15,000 miles a year.  However, before replacing the bulb it is important to check the electrical connector and wires on the back of your headlight for any loose connections or corrosion.  Once you are positive that the bulb is burned out refer to your owners manual for replacing it.  Typically headlights will be replaced by removing the bulb from it's back housing.  Make sure the replacement bulb is the same size and style as the original burned out bulb.
2.  Both Headlights Aren't Working: Aside from the above reason stated where both of the headlights could be burned out, there are other causes to both of your headlights not working.  If both your headlight bulbs are still good, then the cause could be that there is no electricity reaching the bulbs due to a bad headlight relay, fuse, module, dimmer switch, or wiring.  To get a free diagnostic maintenance check on your headlight problems in this case feel free to call you local Bob Sumerel Tire store.
3. Fluctuating Brightness From Headlights: This problem is most likely the result of an alternator going bad or the actual drive belt of the alternator starting to slip.  The chances are that if your alternator is starting to go bad or slipping that your vehicle will also struggle to idle and in serious cases stall.  If you experience fluctuating headlights or engine idling make sure to stop by your local Bob Sumerel Tire store immediately to stop your vehicle from stalling on the side of the road.
4. Dim Headlights: There could be several different causes to this particular problem.  Your headlights could be dirty, fogging on the inside of the headlight lens, discolored on the plastic headlight cover, or improperly aimed headlights.  Most of these problems can just be solved by cleaning your headlights,
   
   however, if there is moisture inside the housing or the discoloration extends down far into the plastic you might need to consider getting a new headlight housing.  If your headlights need to be re-aimed, feel free to bring your vehicle to your local Bob Sumerel Tire store for quick and professional service.

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