How to Brighten Your Car's Low Beam

Low beam headlights are traditionally used more than high beam headlights. It’s important to maintain both low and high beams in working order, however when you upgrade your headlights you’ll more often notice a difference with your low beams since you use them more. Also, if you’ve noticed that your headlights have seemed to dim recently, there are a couple things you might want to check out to keep them in proper working order.

New Bulbs

One thing that many people don’t realize is that headlight bulbs don’t just burn out, they also dim over time. As the filament in the bulbs becomes weaker and weaker, it produces less light and the headlights dim. So one thing you might try if you’ve noticed your headlights are no longer producing a satisfactory amount of light is simply replacing the bulbs. You don’t have to wait for them to burn out to replace them, and more often than not you will notice a definite difference in the amount of light your low beams produce.

Bulb Upgrades

Upgrading to premium bulbs will also produce an immediate increase in the amount of light emitted by your low beams. Several bulb manufacturers offer different levels of upgraded bulbs that will be a direct replacement for your factory equipment. And the good news is that bulb upgrades really work. Some examples of cheaper upgrades include Sylvania’s Xtravision line of upgraded bulbs. There are upgrades available at varying levels all the way to the brightest (and most expensive) premium bulbs like Sylvania’s Silverstar line or Bosch’s premium line. This level of bulb upgrade will produce a very noticeable increase in nighttime visibility.

New Lenses

Another common problem that may cause headlights to appear dimmer is flaws in the headlight lenses that protect the bulbs. Lenses tend to become clouded over time, resulting in reduced light output. The clouding is usually due to oxidation of the plastic from the effects of sun or the elements. To tell if your headlights may be suffering from this type of problem take a look at them. The plastic lens should be completely clear. White coloration is a definite sign of oxidation. The most effective solution to this problem is replacing the lenses altogether, however there are some cheaper options such as kits that are specially made to help polish the plastic of the lens to remove oxidation. Some polishing kits work better than others, but you very well may notice an increase in nighttime visibility by giving it a try.

HID Conversion

The most effective (and expensive) option for brightening your car’s lights is upgrading to HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights. HIDs are state of the art and the most effective lighting system available today. More likely than not, you will be able to find a kit that is tailor made to replace your factory lighting configuration. As an added bonus, HID bulbs last many times longer than standard halogens. To get a good idea of how HID lights perform, simply pay attention while you are driving; HID lighting systems are standard equipment on every new Mercedes.