Headlight & Taillight Replacement
Why Are My Headlights/ Taillights Not Working?
If just one headlight is out, it’s probable that the bulb needs to be replaced. This repair is typically cheap but replacing the bulb can be tricky. Accessing the bulb is different for every vehicle and an experienced mechanic in Chicago can have it replaced in under 10 minutes.
It’s doubtful that a bulb is at fault if both headlights aren’t working. A fuse, headlight relay, headlight switch, dimmer switch, or a wiring fault are the probable cause. A vehicle repair shop will have the tools to test the headlight to determine what is producing the defect.
Why Are My Headlights Dim?
A loose connection may result in the bulb being delivered with a lack of power. The bulb may also be at the end of its life and should be replaced.
The cause of dim headlights may also be a bad alternator, aging headlight lenses, and corroded ground wire. Dim headlights may also result from a bigger problem with the vehicle’s electrical system or battery. In addition to dim headlights, drivers should watch out for power problems such as flickering headlights, interior light issues, and starting problems.
What Are The Different Types Of Headlights?
When it comes to headlights, there is a wide range of choices. So much so that drivers frequently choose headlights for their vehicles based on their added aesthetic. There’s no simple logic, other than good looks, as to why you should prefer one type over the other. Common types of headlights include Halogen, Led, and High-Intensity Discharge (HID).
What Are Halogen Headlights?
Halogen lights are a form of incandescent light bulb with a small amount of halogen gas using a tungsten filament. The bulk of traditional light bulbs only use argon (chemical element).
The halogen gas makes it possible to redeposit evaporated tungsten onto the filament, making for longer-lasting bulbs. Alternatively, it increases the brightness of the bulbs for the same lifetime.
What Are LED Car Headlights?
An LED is simply a semiconductor that, when a current is passed through it, emits light. They only operate in one direction. The energy drawn from the battery (and thus the engine) is less than halogens and HIDs due to the need for minimal current to illuminate.
There’s very little to go wrong with them because of the simplicity of the LED, which is why they are expected to last well over a decade. With that being said, LED headlights haven’t been around long enough to know how long they will last.
What Are HID Vehicle Headlights?
The blinding blue-white light from an oncoming vehicle, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights are what you’re usually looking at. Instead of having a filament shine like older headlights, they use high voltage to create an electrical arc between two poles separated by a tube of xenon gas. They are, actually, arc lights that give off more light than any conventional bulb, and they are whiter.
How Long Should Headlights And Taillights last?
Except for headlights, your tail lights will see more use than almost any other bulb in your vehicle. They’re on when headlights are running or if you apply the brakes.
The most significant factor in a vehicle’s light lifespan is the type of bulbs used. Traditional bulbs typically last 5-6 years, and LED bulbs have a life expectancy of 12 or more years.
The amount of voltage being transmitted through the wiring is another aspect that can impact the light’s lifespan—the greater the voltage, the shorter the bulb’s lifetime.
You will also find that the areas you drive may decrease your tail lamp bulb’s lifetime. For instance, the increased vibrations will break the filament in your tail lamp bulbs if you go over bumpy roads, down dirt roads, or even in off-road situations (note that this does not impact LEDs in the same way).
How Much Does Replacement Headlights And Taillights Cost?
It won’t cost much to repair if the issue with your headlight turns out to be the bulb. Depending on the type of bulb used, headlight bulbs do differ widely in cost (LEDs and HIDs cost more than conventional bulbs).
If the replacement includes the housing for the lights or other wiring issue, the costs will rise. It’s difficult to pinpoint a price because each vehicle requires different parts. Take your vehicle in for an inspection at a Chicago auto repair shop for a realistic repair cost.
How Are Headlights/Taillights Lens Repaired?
It would be best to have a technician thoroughly check your headlights when your headlights stop working or feel like you cannot see the road at night. The technician will explain the reason for your headlights’ reduced light output and let you know if there will be any repairs necessary to restore your vehicle to safe operating conditions. You should have your headlights repaired or replaced at that time if it is not just a simple bulb replacement.
Where To Go For Windshield Wiper And Headlight Repair?
Chicago is full of auto shops that are equipped to fix both wipers and vehicle lights. Finding the right repair shop should be the main priority. Look up reviews for vehicle repair shops such as Chicago Autohaus and hire an auto mechanic that is proven to provide the best repairs and service.