How to Buy Headlights
The headlights are one of the important safety features of your vehicle,
that allow you to see the road ahead at night or during foggy weather
conditions. Without headlights, you will find it difficult to see the road
ahead clearly, which can endanger both you and other drivers. These
important components are also the most susceptible to damage in a
wreck. From the simple halogen lamps to the advanced LED lights,
headlights have evolved over time. You can install new headlights when
the existing lights go bad or you can even upgrade your existing
headlights. You can also install headlights that complement your
vehicle's look. This buyer's guide provides a clear understanding of the
various kinds of headlights and how to choose the right replacement
headlight for your vehicle at BuyAutoParts.com.
What is the function of Headlights?
Automotive headlights provide illumination in foggy, rainy and other low-visibility conditions. Located in the front of the automobiles, the headlights can be switched between high and low beams for different driving conditions. The high beam illuminates the road for a longer distance than the low beam. The high beam travels upward and outward, and hence, for safety reasons, it is recommended to use it only in areas with sparse traffic. The headlights are operated by a switch powered by the automobile's battery. Newer vehicles include photoelectric sensors which automatically turn the headlights on, depending on the atmospheric lighting conditions. Learn more about the various parts of the headlights in this link: Headlight Layout
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Kinds of Headlights Understanding the various types of headlights can help you select the right type of headlights for your car. Composite and Sealed Beam Headlights Sealed beam headlights have the bulb and lens in a single unit, while in composite headlights, the lens, filament and reflector are housed in separate units. In case of a sealed beam headlight, if one of its components fails, it requires the entire assembly to be replaced. However, in composite headlights, only the defective component needs to be replaced. Reflector and Projector Headlights Reflector headlights use a light source and a chrome-plated surface that reflects the light to project an intense beam. The chrome piece that surrounds the bulb controls the beam pattern, thereby protecting oncoming drivers from a direct glare. Projector headlights have the bulb located in a projector bowl that reflects the light towards a projector lens. The lens is located in a metal housing that is chrome-plated. The light then hits a piece of metal that creates the pattern of light that is projected on the road. The projectors generate a more concentrated light beam compared to that of the reflector headlights. |
Types of Headlight Bulbs The following are the types of bulbs typically used in headlights: Halogen Bulbs Halogen bulbs, a common bulb used in headlights, include a tungsten filament. They are usually filled with iodine and bromine, or nitrogen and argon mixtures. These mixtures of gases increase the life of the tungsten filament. HID Bulbs The HID (High Intensity Discharge) bulbs are also called xenon bulbs. These bulbs do not use a filament but instead include two electrodes in a xenon-gas sealed bulb. The intensity of light produced by the HID bulbs are higher than that of the Halogen bulbs. LED Bulbs Newer automobiles use LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs in their headlights. These are smaller than HID or halogen bulbs and can be arranged in various patterns within the headlight housing. |
Headlight Problems and Symptoms Headlights are more susceptible to damage as they are mounted in the front of the vehicle. One of the common issues is a burned-out bulb. Over time, the headlights' lens may become hazy and reduce the intensity of the beam. Loose electrical connections and problems with the switch or fuse can also cause the bulbs to flicker or lose their intensity. |
Maintenance Headlights can accumulate road debris over time or become hazy due to continuous exposure to sunlight. You should clean your headlights regularly to ensure their proper functioning. In most cases, a simple cleaning can restore your bulb's original intensity. Note: Car headlight laws differ between states. Visit your state's DMV website to learn more about the specific laws for your state. |
Fog and Tail Lights Besides headlights, fog lights are specially designed lamps that provide better visibility during foggy or snowy conditions. They are usually located under the headlights. Tail lights are located at the back of your vehicle and are used to indicate your presence to the drivers behind you. BuyAutoParts.com stocks a wide range of meticulously-tested tail light assemblies and fog lights. |
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Headlight Assembly Pairs It is generally advisable to replace both sets of headlight assemblies, even if only one of them is defective. BuyAutoParts.com carries a wide selection of headlight assembly pairs. Getting a pair of headlight assemblies will give you a huge discount! |
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Headlight Guards Headlights are usually the first parts to get damaged in a crash. We stock headlight guards that protect your headlights from damage. |
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Finding Your Headlight's OEM Part Number If for any reason you cannot find your headlight assembly by entering your vehicle's year, make and model, you can find the headlight assembly for your vehicle by its Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) number. The OEM part number can be found directly on the part itself. You can also call a dealership with your VIN, and they will provide you with the OEM part number. You can give one of our car specialists a call at 1-888-907-7225 for further assistance in purchasing your headlight assembly. |
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Get to know about our shipping and warranty policies. |
Frequently Asked Questions |
Can I install the headlights by myself? |
If you are a regular DIYer, you can easily install the headlights. But, be sure to follow your owner's manual and align them to the factory specifications. You can find the installation manual for HID lights in this link: HID Headlight Install |
I need a few clarifications while buying my headlights. |
We have a full team of American-based auto-parts experts waiting to help you. We know how confusing this process can be, but we've all been trained to get you the right part every time. If you have any doubts, please call us. Sales: 1-888-907-7225 Customer Service: 1-800-241-3197 |
What are common causes of headlights going bad? |
A common issue is hazy lenses after years of usage. This can usually be fixed with a simple cleaning. Other causes can be water entering the headlight housing or a loose connection in your headlight's wiring. |
I am hearing unusual sounds after installing the HID bulbs. |
Sometimes, when you turn on the HID lights right away after installation, you will hear a low humming noise. If the noise lasts for more than 10 minutes and you find it to be more of a clicking sound, check whether the ballast and bulbs are properly connected. In addition, make sure that all components are receiving the right amount of voltage. |
View more FAQs and their answers in this link: How Much Does a Headlight Assembly Cost?
