About halogen headlights:
In order for your car to pass its Warrant of Fitness and be safe to drive at night, a working set of lights are required. This lets you see your surroundings and allows other people to see you from a distance.
For decades, halogen lights were the most popular type of headlights in vehicles. However, LED headlights have become more popular in newer cars due to their improved lifespan, brightness and efficiency. However, halogen headlights remain a much cheaper option and can be bought for a fraction of the price of LED lights. Halogen lights are also small and lightweight, meaning they fit easily in most models. If your car is designed to fit halogen lights, an LED light may not fit.
Over time, small deposits can build up within halogen bulbs, creating a brown or grey discolouring effect. This leads to a reduction in the light’s visible output, giving the light a “dimmed” effect. When this happens, the light usually has to be replaced.
When to replace your car’s halogen lights?
There are several things that can go wrong with your car’s halogen lighting system. These can make your vehicle unsafe to drive at night. If you notice any of the following symptoms, your car’s halogen headlights may need a repair or replacement:
- Dim light – As halogen bulbs age, the light they produce becomes dimmer. This can be gradual and hard to notice. However, if you are finding it harder to see at night, they probably should be inspected by a mechanic.
- Blown bulb – If one or more of your lights stops working, it could be because the bulb has blown and needs replacing. This can also be caused by several other issues, such as blown fuses or battery/alternator issues.
- Flickering light – If the headlight bulb’s interior becomes damaged or excessively worn, it can cause the bulb to flicker. This is often followed by the bulb completely failing. Damaging wiring or connections can also cause similar issues.
Halogen headlight WOF requirements in New Zealand:
In order to pass a Warrant of Fitness, your car’s lights must meet the following criteria:
- The lamps must be bright enough to clearly illuminate the road at night
- The lamps are secure and free of contaminants such as dirt or moisture
- The lamp emits a steady light and doesn’t flicker.
- The two lamps must be somewhat similar in brightness and colour.
View all WOF criteria for halogen headlights
Halogen headlight repairs and replacement in Hamilton
Are your car’s headlights in need of a repair, inspection or replacement? Have you failed a Warrant of Fitness due to dim, broken or faulty lights? If so, we can help.
At Grimmer Motors, our team of skilled mechanics can easily repair and replace halogen lights on a variety of vehicles. We’re easily able to source the necessary parts for all manufacturers and perform high-quality installations, meaning your car’s lights will easily pass a Warrant of Fitness.
For car headlight replacement services in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!