Are your headlights burning out more quickly than you believe they should? There are plenty of causes for why your headlights may be ending their life early. Once you identify the issue you can save yourself money because you do not need to replace or change the bulbs as frequently.
The Times You Use Your Headlights Affect their Usage
The typical expected lifespan of a standard halogen headlight bulb is around 350 to 400 hours, so if you are driving a lot during the long winter nights or even if you keep your headlights on during the day it is possible that your bulbs could only last 2 to 3 months.
When you update your headlights to new xenon bulbs they are meant to last for 200 hours, however their light projection is much more than the standard bulb. Drivers who use their headlights for long periods of time can reduce the need for changing out their bulbs by getting a longer life bulb.
Long lifespan bulbs are meant to be durable and high quality with the materials used to make them. This means they last up to three times longer than your regular halogen bulb. They still offer the same lighting capabilities as the original bulbs.
When You Changed the Bulbs Did You Touch the Glass?
If you touch the glass section of the headlight bulb with bare hands, the natural oils within your skin will leave a small residue of grease behind. Once the halogen bulb is illuminated this oil patch will create a hotspot within the bulb and lead to it failing early. Therefore it is a good idea to wear latex gloves when installing new halogen bulbs.
Moisture or Vibration Affects Light Bulbs
Whilst most of the major bulb manufacturers used toughened glass in the construction of their headlight bulbs, they are still vulnerable to the effects of thermal shock. This means that if they come into contact with water that has leaked into the headlight unit, then it is very likely that the bulb will be damaged. It is also important to ensure the bulb is securely installed as otherwise the extra jolts and bumps it will be subjected to can damage the filament
Is The Car’s Electrical System Working Correctly?
The connectors in the headlight holder are electric. They are the source of power from the battery to the bulb, and these metal connectors need to be properly secured to the base on the headlights. If this does not occur a short circuit or blown bulb will result.
You may want to check the alternator as well, since it could provide too much charge to the battery thereby increasing the volt that the bulb receives. The headlight bulb can only handle up to 13.2 volts of power.
Are You Buying Good Quality Headlight Bulbs?
Inexpensive is something you tend to look for because you want to save money, but it is not always better. Quality of the materials used to create the light bulbs has a direct effect on how long they will last. Osram and Philips are two top manufacturers of light bulbs. The highest rating for bulbs is called the E1 mark, which Osram and Philips have. It means testing and quality has been found to be the best.
To avoid the hassle and expense of needing to replace your headlights too frequently you should aim to always install high quality Car Bulbs. Whilst high quality bulbs may cost a premium you will save in the long run as your Headlight Bulbs will last longer and produce a better light quality.
