Check Your Headlights

Posted December 2, 2020

How long has it been since you checked your headlights?

Not just by looking at the reflection on the car in front of you, or at what’s shining on your garage wall when you pull in…but actually took the time to check on your headlights?

Unless you stand in front of your vehicle with the lights turned on, it can be hard to see (pun intended) the real condition of this vital safety component!

For instance, headlights can often turn yellow and cloudy as a natural part of driving. The cause is oxidation, created from exposure to regular sunshine and fresh air. That’s to say nothing of chemicals put on the road to prevent ice, damage by rocks and debris, and even water vapor seeping into the light and clouding things up.

In other words, just because you can see two headlights in the reflection of the car in front of you doesn’t mean your vehicle’s lights are shining as brightly and clearly as they once did.

And the only way to tell is to turn the car on, leave it in park, and get out to check. This is also a good time to check to make sure all of the other lights are working…including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.

The good news? Most causes of cloudy headlights are easily fixed. Whether it’s done by you or by an expert (like our techs), the process is the same: remove the oxidized portion of the lens with an abrasive, and then polish to a shine. Specialty products and tools can make this job easier, of course.

As days get shorter and nights get longer during the winter months, being able to see clearly (and for others to be able to see you clearly) is more and more important. Be sure to take a quick moment and see for how well they’re shining!

To have your vehicle inspected by our auto repair technicians, stop by our shop on East Lakewood Blvd., request an appointment online, or call us at 616.796.9929!

Categories: Car Repair

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