Q: Defective headlights

asked by on May 31, 2016

While driving at night, my headlights occasionally quit and I have to use the high beams. Using my high beams can be dangerous to oncoming traffic. What should I do?

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Windows have bad wind noise problem
Road noise can be very distracting while driving. Fortunately, Chevrolet is aware of this problem and has issued a Technical Services Bulletin (TSB) addressing the wind noise concerns. I highly recommend making an appointment with your local authorized Chevrolet dealership...
Car has a grinding sound when trying to start, but will not start.
This symptom sounds to me like a broken starter gear or a broken flywheel or flex plate. In order to determine which one of the two is at fault the starter will need to be removed to inspect both of...
Code P300. Tried fixing with no success.
When you receive the OBD code P0300, it means your Buick LeSabre is experiencing a random misfire. This code is given because one or more of the engine’s cylinders are misfiring. While our first instinct is to think spark plugs,...
Stiff steering wheel, Battery Light flashing, and noise under hood.
Hi there. The stiff steering wheel and flashing Battery Light may be caused by a serpentine drive belt that has broken or come off (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/serpentine-drive-belt-replacement). It could be that the serpentine belt tensioner pulley was making noise and seized (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement)...
Check system light is on - 2006 Chevrolet HHR
This is a known issue on the Chevy HHRs. As you may know, the power steering in your HHR is electric, which draws a significant amount of electric power to operate it. This power steering motor failure was the subject...
What do it mean when your car stalls out when you sit still then try to move ?
Anytime you have mix matched computers and engines you will run into different issues that may not be able to be fixed. This problem sounds like the ignition timing is not advanced enough. Try to get the timing adjusted more...
changed out a dead battery on a 2013 Ford fiesta, got the wrench light warning now it won't change out of second gear
Hi Gary. Thanks for contacting us today. Usually, a damaged transmission position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-transmission-position-sensor-switch) will cause the symptoms you're describing, but it's very odd for a battery replacement to activate this problem. It's possible that this issue is non-related. The...
Engine idle problem but doesnt match the code on the check engine
The engine idle fluctuation may be caused by a number of things, bit is most commonly associated with the idle air control valve either being dirty or damaged, which may also cause the other code (P0420) to be triggered. The...

Related articles

4 Essential Things to Know About Your Car’s Halogen Lights
Drivers Drivers need to have good headlights on their vehicle that are reliable and that are bright enough to illuminate even the darkest of nights. Good headlights can make all of the difference in the world when it comes to...
How to Add Headlight Covers
A A current trend in the automotive industry is to blackout a vehicle. That includes tinting the windows dark, installing black nameplates and emblems, black rims, and black tinted light assemblies. Aftermarket parts (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/all-about-aftermarket-parts) and accessories achieve the same look,...
Understanding the Pontiac Oil-Life Monitor and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Pontiac Oil Life Monitor (OLM) indicates when and what service your car needs.