If your headlights are dim or flickering, then there might be a problem. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why your headlights might not be working and provide solutions to fix them.

Headlights components

Before you will know the reasons, you should be acquainted with headlight assembly. It generally contains:

• Light bulbs with a filament that produces light when electricity flows through it
• Headlight housing which protects the light bulb
• Reflector that helps to focus the light in a specific direction
• Lenses that cover and protect the reflector and the light bulb

All these components play a significant part in making your headlight work. So, let’s see what might be the problem if they don’t.

Why my headlights not working?

Blown fuse

One of the most common reasons why your headlights are not working is because of a blown fuse. When a fuse blows, it means that there is an excessive current flowing through it. This can happen for various reasons such as a short circuit or wire damage. To check if this is the problem, you will need to locate the fuse box and check if the headlight fuse is blown. If it is, then you will need to replace it with a new one.

You can spot this problem when the headlights on your vehicle suddenly stop working. In some cases, you might also see smoke coming from the fuse box. If you notice this, then it is a sign that you need to replace the fuse as soon as possible.

Damaged wire

Another reason why your headlights might not be working is because of a damaged wire. This can happen due to various reasons such as rodents chewing on the wires or physical damage. To check if this is the problem, you will need to inspect the wiring for any signs of damage. If you find any, then you will need to repair or replace the damaged section of the wire.

This problem can be spotted by looking for any signs of physical damage on the wires. You might also notice that the headlights are only dim or flickering when this problem occurs.

Loose connection

In case you noticed that the headlight only works sometimes, then the problem might be a loose connection. This can happen due to various reasons such as corrosion or damage. To fix this problem, you will need to inspect the connections and clean or tighten them as needed. All you have to do is simply reconnect the wires and make sure that they are properly secured.

Burned-out light bulb

Another common reason why your headlights are not working is because of a burned-out light bulb. This happens when the filament inside the light bulb breaks due to excessive heat. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the burned-out light bulb with a new one. Drivers may do it themselves or ask for a professional’s help. This is pretty simple and does not take much time.

Reflector problems

The reflector is responsible for focusing the light in a specific direction. So, if it is not working properly, then the light will be scattered and will not be as effective. In case you don`t know how to solve this problem, we can tell you that the answer is pretty simple. All you need to do is to clean the reflector. You can do it with a soft cloth and some cleaning solution.

Lenses problems

The lenses are responsible for protecting the light bulb and the reflector. Many motorists believe that lenses may become cloudy over time and this affects the light. In order to clean them, you will need to remove them and clean them with soapy water. Then, dry them with a soft cloth or air dry.

It is also possible that the lenses are cracked or damaged. In this case, you will need to replace them with new ones.

These are some of the most common reasons why your headlights might not be working. We hope that this article was helpful and you were able to solve the problem. If not, then we recommend asking for professional assistance.

How do you check a headlight fuse?

Sometimes all you need to do is check the headlight fuse. Locate your vehicle's fuse box and check to see if the headlight fuse is blown. It is placed in the fuse box to protect the headlight circuit from an overload of current. If too much current flows through the headlight circuit, it will cause the fuse to "blow," or disconnect. This can happen for various reasons such as a short circuit or wire damage.

In order to solve the problem with the headlight fuse, motorists have to:

• Locate the headlight fuse in the fuse box.
• Inspect the fuse to see if it is blown.
• If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.

How much does it cost to fix headlights?

You'll have to spend upwards of $250-$1000 at an auto shop just to replace your headlights. According to different aftermarket auto parts stores, replacing a single high-intensity discharge bulb could cost you $100+, while the entire headlight assembly replacement is between $250-$700. The price ranges depending on your car model.

So, unless you are comfortable with doing it by yourself, we recommend taking your car to a professional.

How long should a headlight last?

You should seek a replacement pair of headlights as soon as one bulb burns out. The average lifespan for car headlights is 500-1,000 hours, though this number fluctuates depending on many conditions. In fact, some headlight bulbs can last over 30,000 hours with proper maintenance. So, maybe it`s just time for your headlights to be replaced and not working because they are damaged.

Always be attentive to your car and its needs! We hope this article was helpful, and that you were able to solve the problem with your headlights. If not, then we recommend taking it to a professional.