How to choose the right headlight bulbs for your car!

Halogen bulbs are the most used type of bulbs for vehicle headlights worldwide. But, did you know they lose up to a quarter of their brightness in the first 2 years. So, replacing them after 3-4 years will make sure you have a safe visibility range. Thus, knowing which bulb will fit your car’s headlight and the options available, will not only help you find the best bulb for your needs but also prevent you from being manipulated by the workshop executive, from whom you’re about to purchase bulbs. So, following are a few factors to keep in mind to help you make the purchase. Read on!

Different types of  headlight fittings

Type of headlight bulb fittings

The first thing to consider is, what type of bulb is compatible with your car? Halogen bulbs come in various fittings. Use your car’s user manual to find out the exact match. Here you’re looking for a H4, H7 etc. specification. Above is a list of different types of headlight bulb fittings.

Wattage/brightness of the healight bulbs

It is advised to stick to the manufacture’s power rating while getting a new headlight bulb (55W in most cases). If you still want to upgrade, remember that it will require a ‘relay’ to be added into the circuit, which cannot be done without cutting wires, thus voiding your warranty. You’ve been warned! Another problem is higher brightness bulb’s filament has to burn at even higher temperature, thus reducing the lifespan.

Light colour temperature of the bulbs

Light colour temperature of headlight bulbs

Colour temperature is measured in Kelvins (K). The colour of the light emitted by the bulbs depends on this rating. Generally, stock bulbs have a colour temperature in the range of 3000K to 3400K and thus have a yellowish tint. This yellowish tint in the light results in better visibility during fog and rain. If we move further up the Kelvin rating, the light becomes pure white. This gives a premium look, since luxury cars usually come stock with bulbs of higher Kelvin ratings. Remember going above 4500K will induce a bluish tint into the light, which is illegal in most countries.

A sensible choice is to strike a balance between brightness and lifespan while going for a colour temperature between 3500k and 4400k for your new pair of headlight bulbs.

 

Image credits:

www.tdamotorsports.com
compendiumblog.com

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