Main Types of Headlight Bulbs
Whether you’re traveling at night or driving through a rainstorm, it’s essential to have working headlights. They are a fundamental safety requirement. Today, car manufacturers offer three main types of headlight bulbs. Laser light technology is another alternative for folks who desire a high-end luxury vehicle. There are pros and cons to each option.
Halogen Bulbs
Halogen headlight bulbs are currently the oldest on the market. Nevertheless, they are still highly functional. The average cost of replacing these bulbs is around $15 to $30, thus making them your most affordable option. Furthermore, installation tends to be straightforward.
There are some downsides to halogen bulbs. For starters, energy consumption is higher. This means greater stress can be placed upon the vehicle’s electrical system. Although halogen bulbs are the least bright of the bunch, most drivers will have no complaints.
LED Bulbs
Over the last few years, LED headlight bulbs have become more popular than ever. They produce an impressive amount of light while delivering a more efficient performance. Because LED bulbs can be arranged to fit tight spaces, automakers have the ability to create sleeker and more innovative headlight designs.
As expected, LED bulbs are more expensive. This is an important factor for drivers who’re looking to keep their vehicle’s cost of maintenance as low as possible. The good news is that these bulbs typically have a long lifespan.
HID (High-Intensity Discharge Bulbs)
Many premium luxury models come standard with HID headlight bulbs. Some aftermarket companies also produce HID kits for vehicles. Xenon gas helps give these bulbs a distinct white/blue tinge, which can be remarkably bright. Drivers will appreciate the enhanced visibility when traveling on a dark street.
One of the drawbacks to HID bulbs is their price. Owners may have to spend more than $200 for a new set. Light output gradually decreases over time, thus indicating the need for replacement. Expect an average lifespan of around three years. Another issue is that the brightness of HID headlights can blind oncoming traffic.
Laser Technology
Laser headlights don’t feature bulbs. They work by creating a chemical reaction, which causes the phosphorus gas on the inside to glow. An extremely strong light beam is produced. To no surprise, laser headlights are limited to select high-end vehicles.
To keep these advanced lights cool, a sophisticated built-in cooling system is needed. Replacing a failed laser headlight assembly will be a big cost. If the vehicle’s factory warranty has expired, owners may have to spend thousands of dollars. Furthermore, laser lighting technology is only available for the high beams.
Tips to Keep in Mind
When one of your headlight bulbs burns out, expect the other one to be on borrowed time. The best approach is to replace both at once.
If your headlight covers become cloudy, try to have them professionally restored as soon as possible. Not only are cloudy headlight covers an eyesore, but they also reduce visibility at night. Remember, not all bulbs are simple to replace. Instead of taking on the complicated chore, take your vehicle to a certified Asheville mechanic.