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It's not always easy to know which headlight bulb you need. There are many different types of bulbs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. To make the procedure a little simpler, we've put up a list of the best bulbs for your car. We'll talk about the different types of bulbs available, and we'll also recommend some of our favorite options on the market.

What are the 3 bulbs in a headlight?

There are three different types of headlight bulbs: halogen, xenon and LED. Halogen is the oldest technology, while xenon uses newer technology to create brighter light that lasts longer. LED is the newest type of automotive light and is more energy-efficient than its predecessors. You can find all three types of bulbs in our online store.

Halogen:

This type of bulb is the most common. It uses a filament that is heated by an electric current to create light. The advantage of halogen bulbs is that they are relatively inexpensive. However, they don't last as long as other types of bulbs and don't produce as much light. Usually, the purpose of usage is for dim, low-beam headlights.

Xenon:

This type of bulb uses gas to create light. The advantage of xenon bulbs is that they last longer than halogen bulbs and produce more light. However, they are more expensive. Usually, the purpose of usage is for bright, high-beam headlights.

LED:

This type of bulb uses an array of LEDs to create light. The advantage of LED bulbs is that they are more energy-efficient than other types of bulbs and last even longer. They also produce a very bright light. However, they are the most expensive option. Usually, the purpose of usage is for bright, high-beam headlights.

Can you replace LEDs with halogen?

You will need a different type of bulb if you want to replace your existing halogen bulbs with LEDs. The reason for this is that halogen bulbs use a filament that is heated by an electric current to create light, while LED bulbs use an array of LEDs to create light. The two technologies are not compatible.

How do I know what headlight bulbs I need?

If you're unsure which bulbs your car needs, you can either reach out to the manufacturer or check your vehicle handbook. The book will list every type of light and the fitting needed for each. Also, new cars often have a sticker on the inside of one of the headlight covers that specifies which bulbs are required.

Whenever you don't have a manufacturer`s manual, there are several aspects to consider when purchasing new headlight bulbs. You'll need to know the make and model of your car, as well as the year it was manufactured. With this information, you can cross-reference with a chart or guide that will list the right bulbs for your car.

In case you're still unsure, there's no harm in taking your old bulbs with you to the store so you can get an exact match. Once you have the right bulbs, follow these steps to install them:

  1. Open the hood and locate the back of the headlight assembly.
  2. Remove the old bulb by unscrewing it from the socket. Some bulbs may have a retaining clip that needs to be disengaged before removal.
  3. Insert the new bulb into the socket and screw it in place.
  4. Reattach any retaining clips and close up the headlight assembly.
  5. Test the new bulb by turning on the headlights.

Now you know how to purchase and install new headlight bulbs! Keep in mind that both halogen and LED bulbs will eventually burn out and will need to be replaced. Check your owner's manual to find out how often to replace your car's headlight bulbs.

Are all headlight bulbs universal?

Headlights are not necessarily the same across all makes and models. Each vehicle has its own set of lights, necessitating the use of various bulbs. There is not yet a single bulb that every automobile uses, but there isn't always a distinct one for each make and model. Moreover, the sizes and shapes of headlight bulbs have been standardized, so finding a replacement for your car should not be difficult.

The vehicle-specific headlights are usually outfitted with a bulb that's been customized to produce the best light output. The result is a headlight that's whiter and brighter than the older yellowish light, providing better illumination of the road ahead.

If you have chosen the improper size of the bulb for your headlights, it might not fit in the available space, or worse, it can damage the headlight assembly. Therefore, while there are some universal types of headlight bulbs, we still advise you to check which bulbs your car needs before making a purchase.

Does high beam and low beam use the same bulb?

In many top-tier and performance vehicles, there are still two bulbs. In these instances, a halogen bulb is used for the low beam while a high-intensity discharge (HID) bulb illuminates the high beam. It's important to note that these two types of bulbs are not interchangeable. If one burns out, you must replace it with an identical bulb.

The size of the bulb is also important. To ensure that you're choosing the right size, consult your car's owner manual or look for the sticker inside the engine bay that lists the required bulb type. Drivers will typically find this sticker on the underside of the hood. If you're still not sure what bulb you need, ask your mechanic or bring your car to an auto parts store, where an employee can help you find the right one.

What happens if you put high beam bulbs in low beam?

Although a high beam bulb might melt your low beam socket, it can also damage your wiring, which is an accident hazard. Besides, if you use a high beam bulb in your low beam, you will have decreased light output due to the fact that the filament is positioned lower in the bulb. This can result in decreased visibility and could even get you pulled over. So, it's important to use the right bulbs for each purpose.

How do I find my headlight part number?

The number consists of letters and numbers and can be 13, 10, or 7 digits long. Now we will tell you how to decipher it. The first two digits are your car make’s code. After that, there are usually numbers that indicate the type of light (halogen, LED, etc.), the size or shape of the light (round, oval, rectangular, etc.), and the wattage output of the light.

At the end of the string of letters and numbers is a letter that corresponds to the country in which the part was made. This letter is known as the “E” code and it stands for either Europe or Japan. The OEM part number is plainly written on the detail itself. You may also call a dealership and ask for the OEM part number using your VIN. As of the original equipment manufacturer headlights, they usually offer the best quality and are made to match your car exactly. Aftermarket options are usually cheaper, but the quality and fitment can vary greatly.

Also, you can find out the needed headlight bulb on our website. Depending on the make and model of the vehicle, there might be different options. They vary in sizes, shapes, and colors. Choose the one that you like and add it to your cart. You will also need to purchase a headlight bulb socket for installation.

Conclusion

Headlight bulbs are not all created equal. Some are better suited for low beams while others excel at high beams. It's important to choose the right bulb for your needs to ensure optimal illumination and safety on the road. Be sure to consult your car's owner manual or a professional mechanic to find out which bulbs are best for your vehicle.




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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