Stop, turn signal and headlights

Your vehicle's headlights are designed to help you stay safe, improve visibility, and communicate your vehicle's movement to other vehicles on the road. Whether it's a broken headlight, a faulty brake light, or a blown turn signal bulb, missing one of your car's headlights can lead to a serious accident. That's why a burned out light bulb is a quick way to earn a fine or fail a vehicle inspection. Here's everything you need to know about automotive lighting services and what you can do when one of your bulbs burns out. 

Replacing the turn signal bulb

I think it's safe to say that no one likes meeting someone who doesn't use turn signals. This is done for a good reason, as the lack of an indication can create confusion on the road or cause an accident. However, even if you use your turn signal constantly, it won't be effective without a bright turn signal light. 

You can check your turn signal bulbs regularly by simply parking your car at home or in another safe place. Then press each of your turn signals individually, or turn on your hazard lights to turn them both off at the same time. Get out of the vehicle and check that all turn signal bulbs are working and bright, including the bulbs at the rear and front of the vehicle. When you notice a light bulb dimming, it's important to replace it before it burns out completely. 

Replacing the brake light bulb

It's best not to wait until you're in the back before discovering that your brake lights aren't on. However, checking brake lights is often more difficult than checking turn signals. If possible, it's easiest to check the brake lights when you have someone to help you. Have a friend, partner, neighbor, colleague, or family member apply the brakes while you inspect the back of the car. If you can't find someone to help you check your brakes, you may want to consider going to the nearest mechanic. Chapel Hill Tire experts will check your brake lights free of charge to see if you need a new bulb.

Replacing the headlight bulb

Unlike brake lights or turn signal bulbs, headlight problems are incredibly easy to spot. This is because headlight problems should be obvious to you when you are driving at night. Did one of your lights go out? Driving with one headlight presents serious safety issues and can land you a fine, making headlight bulb replacement a top priority. Luckily, this service is fast, simple, and affordable. 

Be aware that headlight dimming not always means your bulbs are failing. The headlights are made of acrylic, which over time can begin to oxidize under the influence of solar ultraviolet rays. Oxidation gives your headlights a hazy, opaque, or yellowish tint. This is exacerbated by the dirt, dust, chemicals, and debris that can build up on your headlights over time. If your headlights are dimming and the bulbs are in good condition, you may need headlight restoration. This service includes professional cleaning and protection of your headlights to bring them back to life. 

What to do if a car light bulb burns out

It is very important to replace the lamp as soon as a problem occurs. If you know how to handle a car, the owner's manual details the bulb replacement processes you can follow. However, the wiring, bulbs, and parts surrounding your lights are often fragile and can be dangerous to inexperienced hands. Depending on your vehicle type, this service may also require special tools. All this suggests that it is better to entrust the replacement of automotive lamps to a specialist. 

It's also important to note that your car is a balanced car, so each headlight has a pair between the left and right sides. In most cases, both lamps in each pair were installed simultaneously with bulbs of the same type. Although this is not always the case, there is a chance that if one headlight, brake light or turn signal goes out, their pair will not be far behind. Many drivers choose to replace a second light bulb to ensure they don't have to return to the mechanic immediately for the same service. 

Chapel Hill Tire Repair Services

If you need a bulb replacement or service, take your vehicle to Chapel Hill Tire. We are proud to offer these services at our eight Triangle service centers including Durham, Carrborough, Chapel Hill and Raleigh. Book your lamp replacement online here or call us today to get started!

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