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How Long Do Car Headlights Last?

When it comes to driving at night, it’s hard to think of a more important component than your headlights. Not only do they help you see, they also help you to be seen by oncoming traffic. They’re definitely something you don’t want to neglect when it comes to the maintenance and service of your vehicle. But just how long does the average headlamp last, and how often should you be expecting to replace them? The service experts here at Hinton Dodge Chrysler, take a look.

Average Duration

The typical lifespan of a vehicle’s headlight depends on what it’s made from, and its intensity, all of which can affect the rate at which they burn out and require replacement. In particular, the common halogen bulbs with tungsten filaments have a lifespan seriously affected by luminosity, with brighter bulbs burning out much quicker than dimmer bulbs.

Bulb Average Lifespan (Hours)
Halogen 500-1,000 (depending on brightness)
Xenon 10,000
HID 2,000
LED 30,000

Halogen vs. Xenon

Why do Xenon bulbs last so much longer than a Halogen light? Unlike the halogen bulbs, where the tungsten filament is generating all the light, in a xenon bulb, the gas itself is illuminated by the filament. That means the filament doesn’t need to burn as hot, and it greatly extends the lifespan of the bulb. High-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs also use xenon, but rather than the tungsten filament, they make use of an electrode which illuminates the gas. They also last longer than the halogen bulbs, but not as long as the tungsten-xenon ones.

Replacing Your Headlight Bulbs

When you note your headlights starting to flicker, or dim, or they stop turning on completely, it’s time to get your vehicle into a shop as soon as possible. While it’s certainly possible to replace them yourself, we always recommend you let the factory certified technicians at our service centre handle it for you, to make sure the job is guaranteed, and done correctly. Like with many parts, we recommend you replace headlights in pairs – if one is on the way out, the other is probably not far off, and two new bulbs will ensure better clarity on the road.

Get Your Vehicle Headlights Serviced in Perth, ON

Be sure to replace those bulbs before they burn out, and make sure you can see and be seen on the road. If your headlights – or any of your vehicle’s lighting – requires service, our team of experienced technicians are here to help. Book a service appointment today at Hinton Dodge Chrysler, and we can get your headlights sorted out in no time!