Reasons Vehicle Lights Burn Out
Before you can fix a problem that causes your vehicle headlight bulbs to burn out too quickly, you must know why they do. There are many distinct reasons why headlight bulbs keep burning out quicker than you would like. Below are answers to why does my headlight keep burning out when you just replaced it.
Riding on Rough Roads and Highways
The headlights have very delicate wire connections that sometimes break when you are riding on a road with potholes and bumps. The vibrations driving over potholes, cracks and bumps will break the filament in the headlights, causing them not to work. Sometimes it is a fault in the headlight design and the bulb is not fastened securely inside. This causes it to vibrate due to a bent bulb or frame. If your car wheels are out of balance and shakes and vibrates this can cause your headlights to vibrate and burn out too.
Touching The Bulb With Your Hands or Not Securing It Properly
The oil on your hands if you put the bulb in will create hot spots and cause it to overheat. It will even cause the headlights to overheat and the glass to break. When you install the headlights, wear plastic or latex gloves or use a soft cloth to handle them. Make sure the wire is not loose and it is securely fastened as a loose connection can be the cause of why headlight bulbs keep burning out.
Cold and Hot Temperature Extremes
When you live in climates with cold temperatures and drive for prolonged periods of time, the cold may explain why headlight bulbs keep burning out. Cold weather climates may mean that you have to change your headlight bulbs more frequently. When you drive long distances and your bulbs get hot, this can burn them out more quickly too.
Forgetting to Turn Headlights Off Or Turning Them On Before Starting Your Car
If you forget to turn off your headlights after parking your car, this can burn out the headlights and the battery. Starting the car directs all the energy to your engine and putting on your lights after you start the vehicle will save you from turning the lights on and off too many times. Do not turn your lights on days when you do not need them, unless it is required by state law.
Moisture in Your Headlights
Moisture in headlights is often caused by mechanical problems. Moisture may get in due to a faulty seal and it needs to be repaired or replaced. A blocked vent may cause moisture to get into the headlights and not heat and cool properly. Your headlights may be cracked and need to be replaced. Unless you are a skilled mechanic, have a garage help you with the repairs for moisture in the headlights.
Solutions For Headlights Burning Out
One solution is to try not to drive on roads with too many potholes and construction work going on. Try to drive on roads that are kept up and maintained regularly. Roads and highways that are not maintained can be hard on your headlights. Learn how to replace your headlights properly. Do not touch them but wear plastic or latex gloves when changing the filament or changing the headlight. Remember the oil on your hands can lead to glass breaking and heating problems.
Or you could use special headlights for off-roading. They are manufactured to endure harsh treatment and vibration.
Test For Mechanical Problems
Your mechanic can test the alternator for technical problems. This can lead to problems with your headlight bulbs. The AC and DC voltage on the alternator might be off. The AC voltage should be 14.8 volts or less and the AC should be less than .1 volt. A mechanic can test the headlight when it has too much moisture because of problems with a faulty seal, damaged headlight, and a blocked vent. They can do the maintenance and save your money on having to replace the headlights with new ones. Some home mechanics take out the headlights and use a hair dryer to dry out the moisture.
Replace The Bulbs And Consider Buying Higher Quality Brands
When you have some mechanical ability, replacing the bulbs may be the answer to your problem of why the headlights keep burning out. Try switching to LED headlights that are more energy efficient and last longer. These bulbs are slim and easier to install and environmentally friendly.
Headlight Protectors And Film
Headlight protectors will protect your headlight in hot and cold temperatures and keep you from asking why does my headlight keep burning out. There are also special light covers or guards that protect the lenses from debris.
These are some solutions to keeping headlights operating effectively and not burning out quickly in vehicles.
Reviewed by Brent Ordway
Brent Ordway is an ASE-certified car technician. He has been working on cars since he was a teenager and loved helping people keep their vehicles running smoothly. Brent's skills as a mechanic are unrivaled. In 2022, he earned his place on the list of winners for the ASE Master Automobile Technician of the Year award.
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