How to Brighten Dull Headlights

Replacing headlights can be a daunting task. It doesn’t matter if you’re trying to change the low beam, high beam, or both bulbs; there are many steps involved in the process and it can take some time before you get your car back on the road again. However, replacing your headlight is not only important for safety reasons but also to maintain your vehicle’s appearance. Here we will discuss how to replace headlights safely and quickly!

The Importance of Headlights

We all know that headlights on your vehicle are important for safety and to maintain the appearance of your car. But why, exactly? Headlights allow oncoming vehicles and pedestrians to see you on the road, increasing your safety as a driver. Additionally, they help other vehicles fulfill their duties as drivers by allowing them to ‘see’ what is around the bend. The same goes for pedestrians, as they can see oncoming traffic to avoid walking into the street.

Replacing Your Headlights

Headlight replacement may not be something you think about often, but it is important to pay attention to this aspect of your car or truck. This will help ensure that other drivers and pedestrians are able to see your vehicle when driving at night or in dark conditions. Furthermore, over time the headlight lens can crack and the light will begin to spread throughout the housing in a wide, unfocused manner.

How to Replace Headlights

If you find yourself needing to replace your headlights, follow these steps from Nationwide:

Step 1: Turn your car off

To ensure safety, make sure your car is not running and that your keys are out of the ignition.

Step 2: Open engine compartment

Open your car’s hood and locate the headlight holder. This will be towards the front of the car.

Step 3: Disconnect the headlight bulb power wires

There are usually three wires attached to the base of the lightbulb. Push down the clip or cap holding them in place to disconnect them.

Step 4: Unscrew the old headlight

Every car is different. In some cars you can easily get straight to the bulb. However, with some cars it’s not that easy. Sometimes the battery or the air filter housing is in the way and sometimes you have to take the inner fender out and get behind it.

However, if you can open the headlight, it’s then just a matter of changing the halogen bulb. This means seeing how the bulb is locked in and carefully unlocking it.  However, if the clips that are being used break, the whole headlight will need to be taken out.

Step 5: Screw in the new headlight bulb

Gently tighten in the new bulb without touching the glass of the bulb. If you touch it, oil and dirt on your hands can cause the bulb to burst once it heats up. Shut your car’s hood, and you’re done! With the new bulb in place, your headlights should be as good as new.

How Often Should You Change Headlights?

The average lifespan of headlights varies from car to car. It can range from 450 to 1,000 hours depending on heat and efficiency.

The average replacement rate in a lifetime of a vehicle is 3-4 times. If your headlights are not shining brightly, it is likely that the filament in the low beam headlight has burned out or that there could be dust buildup in the headlight lens. Check your driver’s manual to see when you should replace specific light bulbs.

If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to replace the headlight bulbs. This is not only important for safety but also your car’s appearance. Remember that replacing headlights is a task that should not be taken lightly as it requires you to work around several components of your vehicle. However, with these simple steps, you will be safely back on the road in no time.

Call Scott’s Auto

If you’re having issues with your headlights, bring your car to a Scott’s Auto location nearest you to have one of our professionals get your lights back to shining brightly.