Headlights Won’t Turn On – Don’t Panic, Fix it Instead!
When the headlights won’t turn on regardless of the times, you restart your car, the solutions take place.
The moment when you get ready for a ride but the headlights malfunction, it does not feel good. It may be both of the lights or one of them, in either case, it can be fixed.
Well, trying again by turning that key is the easiest fix that can make the headlights work.
Headlights Won’t Turn On: Reasons and Fixes
A non-working headlight is an ultimate pain when you face the need to drive in the dark. The night time makes it almost impossible to drive without a headlight.
Even if one works, the other one that is non-functional makes it unendurable. Before you drive any further, fix your headlights using these easy steps.
Lose Connection or Burnt Wires
The specific wires connect the headlights to the engine, and this way, the headlights receive the energy source. When these wires have a loose connection or if they burn out, headlights won’t turn on.
The fix: You need to access the area where the wire connects the battery and the headlight. Check for any loose connection or burnt wire and replace them or tighten them up.
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Damaged Relay
A relay is a part of the light system that is responsible for providing power to the headlights.
Just like other components of the headlight, the relay can get damaged too. In this case, the car headlights won’t turn on. If you happen to encounter a problem with the relay, consider replacing it and check again.
When One Headlight Does Not Function
The above-mentioned solutions are obvious to follow when both headlights not working. However, if there is only one headlight malfunctioning, then the reason may be different. Such as the filament of the particular bulb that needs to be replaced.
When you can notice the bulb a bit bleached or darkened, it is a sign that the bulb needs a replacement.
In this case, when you replace the old bulb, the headlight should start working finely. If it does not, then you need to switch to other mentioned solutions. Manage your car all by yourself with these easy Maintenance Tips.
A headlight can go malfunctioning due to several parts of the bulb itself and the wiring that connects it to the battery.
Checking each part one by one may be the ultimate solution because it helps you determine which part has gone bad. Do check the headlight switch, wiring, module, or fuse, other than the bulb itself.
FAQs
1. Can a bad alternator cause my headlights not to turn on?
A failing alternator can lead to issues with your headlights. The alternator charges the battery when your car is running; if it’s malfunctioning, it might not supply enough power to your car’s electrical components, including the headlights.
If your headlights are dimming or won’t turn on, and you’re experiencing other electrical issues, it might be worth checking the alternator.
2. Could my car’s computer system prevent the headlights from turning on?
In modern vehicles, the Body Control Module (BCM) controls the headlights among other electrical components.
A glitch or fault in the BCM can prevent the headlights from operating correctly. Resetting the BCM or addressing the fault through diagnostic procedures may resolve the issue.
3. Do aftermarket modifications affect headlight functionality?
Aftermarket modifications, such as installing custom light bulbs, LED conversions, or additional lighting accessories, can sometimes lead to headlight issues.
Incorrect installation or incompatible components can overload the circuit, blow fuses, or disrupt the normal operation of your headlights.
4. Can extreme temperatures cause headlight failure?
Extreme cold or hot temperatures can impact the functionality of your headlights. In cold climates, ice or snow can physically block the headlights or impact the electrical connections.
High temperatures can cause headlight bulbs to burn out more quickly or damage plastic components, potentially leading to malfunction.
5. Is there a way to test if the problem is with the headlight switch?
You can test the headlight switch using a multimeter to check for continuity. If you’re not familiar with using a multimeter, it’s best to consult a professional.
A malfunctioning switch may not provide power to the headlights, preventing them from turning on.
6. Can a faulty ignition switch affect headlights?
While not common, a severely faulty ignition switch could impact the power supply to various components, including the headlights.
If the headlights fail to turn on and there are additional starting or electrical issues, the ignition switch might be a component to inspect.
7. How do I know if the problem is with the headlight relay?
The headlight relay controls the power sent to the headlights. If the relay is faulty, it can prevent the headlights from turning on.
You can sometimes diagnose a relay issue by listening for a clicking sound when you attempt to turn on the headlights or by swapping the relay with another identical one in your vehicle’s fuse box to see if the problem persists.
8. Could headlight failure be related to a security system issue?
In some cases, an overly sensitive or malfunctioning car security system or alarm can interfere with the electrical system, including headlights.
This is especially true for aftermarket security systems that might not be fully compatible with your vehicle’s electrical architecture.
Check out this video from 1A Auto to troubleshoots this headlights won’t turn on issue!
The Last Words
Fixing the headlight is a relatively easier thing to do if you are aware of the engine system to some extent.
However, if you are a novice or haven’t handled any car’s technicalities before, it is best to call the professionals.
So, these are some of the solutions one can follow when the headlights won’t turn on that we hope you would find helpful.
