Driving in darkness is a risky adventure that could jeopardize your safety and that of other road users. However, with headlights, you can easily navigate your car through dark terrains. Every car comes with headlights. Like all other things, these headlights have a life span, meaning you will need a replacement for them sooner or later. The review above took you through the best headlights available. Knowing the best products is one part of the process; knowing how to pick out the most suitable product is the other part of the process. This buying guide helps you through the second part by detailing everything you should know before buying a replacement headlight.
What are the Types of Replacement Headlights?
When shopping for replacement headlights, you will find out that there are various types available. The three most common types are HID headlights, LED headlights and halogen headlights. Please keep reading to know more about these headlights and their characteristics.
HID Headlights
HID, short for high intensity discharge, is a type of headlight that gives out bright white light. Compared to halogen headlights, HID headlights last longer. HID headlights contain gas that charges and illuminates through electrodes. You should endeavor to ask about local laws about HID headlights because it is banned in certain places. HID headlights usually don’t reach their full power quickly because the gas takes a couple of seconds to charge fully. HID headlights are also known as Xenon headlights.
LED Headlights
LED headlights are the newest type of headlights among the three. They also produce the least heat and thus have the longest life span of the three types. They are energy efficient. However, due to the fact that they are more expensive than halogen lights, the switch to LED headlights has not been as quick as anticipated. Also, there are regulations surrounding such a switch in some regions.
Halogen Headlights
Halogen lights have been around for a while. They are the most common type of headlight you’ll find in cars because they are cost-effective. It contains filaments made of tungsten and halogen gas. Halogen lights produce light when these components heat up. Moisture often affects the performance of halogen headlights.
What are the Factors to Consider When Buying a Replacement Headlight?
Before buying a replacement headlight, you should look at certain features to ensure it serves you optimally.
Wattage
The wattage rating is one of the first factors you should consider before buying a replacement headlight. This factor is important because the wattage affects the bulb’s brightness. Oftentimes, the first question that comes to mind when we hear of headlights or other light-producing items is ‘how bright is it?’ Therefore, you should check the headlight’s wattage before buying one.
Energy Consumption
It is a given that your headlight will consume energy. However, it is essential that you ascertain the amount of energy that the headlight consumes before buying one. If it consumes too much energy, your battery will bear the brunt when the headlight runs for a long period. You don’t want your battery to go dead right in the middle of the road on a dark night because of your headlight’s energy consumption.
Heat Production
You should also look out for the headlight’s heat production before you splash the cash. They always produce heat when in use; however, some types of lights produce more heat than others. The more heat the bulb produces, the sooner the bulb will blow up. LED headlights, as mentioned above, produce the least heat and are preferred to halogen headlights in this regard.
Aesthetics
Apart from lighting up your path, replacement headlights can also add to your car’s aesthetic feel. An elegant headlight can make your car more attractive. Therefore, if enhancing your car’s look is a priority, you should consider the aesthetic import of the replacement headlight on your vehicle.
When do You Need Replacement Headlights?
Different circumstances may necessitate the need to get replacement headlights. Some of the most common reasons to buy a replacement headlight are highlighted below.
Cracked headlight
When your current headlight gets cracked, it is time to get a replacement headlight. A cracked headlight may break down totally at any time. To avoid getting caught unawares, you should get a replacement headlight as soon as you can.
Dim light
When you notice your headlight is getting dim, it’s time to get a replacement. Dim light is the notice you need to know the headlight is due for replacement.
Darker routes
Sometimes, your headlight may not be exactly dim or cracked, just that your route is darker and your current headlights simply cannot keep up. When you observe this, you should get a replacement headlight.
Final Thoughts on Replacement Headlights
Your headlights often always show you signs when they are about to break down, except in crash cases when everything happens suddenly. In addition, ensure you understand local laws about certain types of replacement headlights. This is particularly important when changing from one type of headlight to the other.
How Much do Replacement Headlights Cost?
The cost of replacement headlights usually depends on the type you are buying. Halogen headlights are the most affordable type. Usually, low-end replacement headlights cost between $15 and $30. High-end ones cost between $60 and $100.
Replacement Headlight FAQs
Q – Can you replace your headlight yourself?
A – Yes, you can. You don’t need to visit a mechanic to replace your headlight. You can gain access to the headlight compartment by opening your hood and undoing the lamp connections. Remove the old bulb and slot in the replacement.
Q – Why do headlights burn out?
A – There are a few reasons why your headlights burn out. Improper connection is one of the common reasons why headlights burn out. Vibration and the presence of moisture in the headlight capsule are some other reasons.
Q – Can you replace just one headlight?
A – You can replace only one headlight. However, experts often recommend that you replace both headlights because factory-fitted headlights usually have the same life expectancy. So, if one goes off, the other is not far behind.