Dec 1, 2023
A Buick Enclave parked outside of a building

Headlights are a crucial component of safe driving, and if you own a GMC or Buick, you value safety. Over time, your headlights may deteriorate, affecting your visibility and overall driving experience. So how do you know if your vehicle needs new headlights? Here’s some advice from your Buick dealer about what signs to keep an eye out for.

Dimming or Flickering Headlights

One of the most common signs that your car needs a new set of headlights is dimming or flickering lights. If you notice your headlights becoming less bright or flickering while in use, it’s a clear indicator that something is amiss. Dim headlights reduce your visibility, making it challenging to see the road and potential hazards. Flickering headlights can also be distracting and may indicate an electrical issue that needs immediate attention.


Reduced Visibility at Night

If you find yourself struggling to see the road clearly when driving at night, it’s time to consider replacing your headlights. Reduced visibility is not only a safety concern but also a major inconvenience. Replacing those headlights can significantly improve your nighttime driving experience, ensuring you can see obstacles, pedestrians, and road signs clearly.


Yellowing or Hazing on Headlight Lenses

Exposure to UV rays, road debris, and weather conditions can cause headlight lenses to become hazy, cloudy, or yellowed. This reduces the effectiveness of your headlights as well as detracting from your vehicle’s appearance. Cloudy lenses scatter light and reduce the distance your headlights can illuminate. Replacing the lenses or the entire headlight assembly can restore your vehicle’s lighting performance and aesthetics.


Cracked or Broken Headlight Housings

Physical damage to your headlight housings is a clear indication that replacement is necessary. Cracked or broken housings not only compromise the structural integrity of the headlights but also expose sensitive components to the elements. Moisture and debris can enter the housing, leading to electrical problems and reduced functionality. Promptly replacing damaged housings is crucial for maintaining the safety and longevity of your headlights.


Bulb Burnout

Headlight bulbs have a limited lifespan, typically ranging from 500 to 1,000 hours of use. If one or both of your headlight bulbs have burnt out, it’s essential to replace them promptly. Driving with a burnt-out headlight not only decreases your visibility but can also result in a traffic violation. Replacing bulbs is relatively simple and cost-effective.

Your vehicle’s headlights play a vital role in ensuring your safety on the road, so if you notice any of these warning signs, call us here at Toth Buick GMC to schedule an appointment to get your headlights checked out and possibly replaced.

Image via Buick