Keeping Your Car Lit
Most drivers know to use their horn to communicate with other drivers. The often-overlooked method of communication is your car’s lights. They alert other drivers on a dark road to your presence, they signal you’re stopping, turning right, turning left or backing up. And when one of them isn’t working, they can signal a cop to pull you over.
Don’t wait until a bulb goes out before replacing it. Think about the wear and tear on your car, and consider replacing the lights accordingly. According to Road and Travel Magazine, your car’s halogen headlights dim over time and you may not even notice it. You should check them periodically and replace them in pairs.
Cars.com also points out that the voltage of your car can shorten a bulb’s life. Newer vehicles running more electronics put out a higher voltage which may make the bulbs burn out quicker.
Additionally, consider where you’re driving. If your terrain is rough, you have a higher chance of damaging the filaments.
Bulb Shopping
If you choose to replace one or pair of lights in your car, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Your car needs a specific kind of bulb. When you go into the auto parts store, make sure you match up your make and model.
- Different kinds of lights have different perks and drawbacks. Halogen lights typically don’t last as long as xenon high-intensity-discharge lights, which typically don’t last as long as LEDs. Some say they are brighter, some say they are more like daylight, and some will state on the package that they have a shorter life span.
- Not all light bulbs are the same color. If you want a unique look for your car, you can choose a colored headlight bulb. Keep in mind, however, that a colored bulb may not be as effective in the darkness as a regular bulb. Additionally, you should check local ordinances to make sure they’re not against the law.
Need an auto body professional? Call Great Plains Auto Body 402.334.7100
