What Headlight Bulb Do I Need?

What Headlight Bulb Do I Need?

So, you got a warning on your car that your headlight went out? Your bulb is getting less and less bright?

It’s especially important to replace your headlights because it can prevent visibility on the road. Having a headlight that’s out can even cost you a pricey ticket from a police officer. No need to worry, switching to LED headlights is easy to do when you have the right equipment and directions. 

First, you need to find out what kind of headlight bulb your specific car model needs. If you have the wrong bulb, the light will not work. With some research of your car’s year and model, you can easily find out which headlight bulb your vehicle needs. You can also find this information in your car manual, the number on your old headlight bulbs, or using an online headlight bulb number database, like Phillips Automotive Bulb FinderAll you need is the headlight bulb replacement number to know which size you need.

What kind of headlights are available?

Vehicles often have a standard type of headlight. The most common lights are halogen, LED and HID. Most vehicles have halogen headlights, but here are the differences:

  • Halogen- Halogen headlights use tungsten-halogen filament mixed with halogen gas to generate a light brighter compared to conventional headlights
  • LED- LED lights draw less power to generate compared to other light options. They often last longer but will cost you more as an investment
  • HID- HID lights use gas to give off an extremely bright glow. They often require professional installation and are very pricey. 

What’s important in vehicle headlights?

The main factors in choosing new headlights are the brightness, color temperature and price. Consider the bulbs that will provide the best amount of visibility and value for your needs.

When should I change my headlights?

Depending on the many variable of amount of use, weather, type of bulb and routine your headlight may last up to five or six years but become very dim over time. When considered the type of bulb, HID lights tend to last the shortest amount of time, LED lights last the longest and Halogen lights somewhere between the two.  

How to change car headlights?

Changing your car headlight is easier than one might think, save your precious money from costly mechanic and do it yourself! Purchase your bulb and get to work. There are so many useful guides with photos and videos, even with your exact car model, that will show your how to change your headlight. Even if you do not want to change the bulb yourself, you will get a better value and more choice if you purchase the bulb and take it to your mechanic.

What if changing my headlights isn’t enough?

Sometimes your headlight can be dimmed due to other causes, such as a foggy or dirty headlight lens. You can use a headlight restoration kit or a home-remedy to clean your headlight in just a short period of time. 

It’s important to understand the what headlight bulb you need and possible things that may come up when replacing it. Make sure you have clear visibility on the road and bright lights by replacing your headlights often.