When is it time to replace the headlight assembly?
Double-check with the vehicle fit tool right here on the AutoZone website to make sure you’re getting just what you need for a brighter driving experience. You know it’s time to install a new headlight assembly when the headlight doesn’t come on or has become cracked or foggy.
When does a dipped headlight bulb come out?
If you get the “headlight bulb out” message, see your headlights “flicker” on/off occasionally, or notice that your dipped headlight error only comes on in cold weather or at first start up, it’s likely your headlight bulbs may be on their way out.
What happens when you turn on the headlights?
When you turn on your headlights, that switch activates a relay. That relay, in turn, actually provides the electrical connection between your headlight bulbs and the battery. Fuses are also involved in order to provide a sacrificial failure point to protect the rest of the wiring.
What to do when both head lights stop working at the same time?
When that happens, the operational lifespan of your headlight capsule will be severely compromised, and the only fix is to replace the headlight assembly. When both headlights stop working at the same time, the bulbs usually aren’t at fault.
If you get the “headlight bulb out” message, see your headlights “flicker” on/off occasionally, or notice that your dipped headlight error only comes on in cold weather or at first start up, it’s likely your headlight bulbs may be on their way out.
Why do I have to change my headlight bulb?
It seems the most common issue is that a ballast has gone bad…the bad ballast then causes damage to the headlight bulb, requiring you to change the bulb too. If you only change one or the other, you do run the risk that you’ll have to replace it again due to damage that occurred.
What should I do if my headlight is not working?
To isolate if it is the headlight bulbs, ballasts, or something internal in the headlight itself, simply swap both the bulbs and ballasts from left to right headlight.
Why does my dash say dipped Headlight left?
If the dipped headlight error on your dash changes from “Dipped Headlight Left” to “Dipped Headlight Right” (or vice versa) then you know that the issue lies in either the bulb or ballasts. You should order one new bulb and one new ballast (using the links in this post) and replace the bad side and you should be good.