Your headlights are probably the last thing on your mind after an accident—after all, you’re likely more concerned about the damage to your car and any potential injuries. However, once the initial shock has worn off and you start to assess the damage, you might find that you need some headlight repair.
Here are five common headlight issues that can occur after a car accident and what you can do about them.
Keep Your Headlights in Good Condition to Prevent Accidents
Any headlight issues are a safety hazard on the road. Dim or malfunctioning headlights make it difficult for you to see the road and other drivers and also make it harder for them to see you. This increases your chances of getting into another accident—the last thing anyone wants.
Regularly check and maintain your headlights to avoid any unwanted risks. This includes cleaning them regularly, replacing bulbs when they burn out, and taking care of any headlight repairs as soon as possible.
5 Headlight Issues and How to Solve Them
Once you’re ready to assess your headlight damage and get your car back on the road, here are five common issues to identify.
1. Cracked or Broken Headlight Lens
After an accident, it’s not uncommon for the headlight lens to crack or shatter due to impact. This can lead to water and dirt getting into the headlight, which can cause condensation and affect your visibility at night. It also leaves the inside of your headlight vulnerable to damage.
The Solution: If your headlight lens is cracked or shattered, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional. They can ensure the repair is done correctly and safely
2. Water or Moisture in Headlight
As mentioned, water and moisture can get into the headlight through a cracked lens or damaged seal. This can cause fogging, reduced visibility, and potential electrical issues.
The Solution: Remove the headlight assembly and let it dry completely before sealing any cracks or replacing the damaged seal. If the water damage is significant, replace the entire headlight assembly.
3. Malfunctioning Bulbs
After an accident, it’s not uncommon for a headlight bulb to burn out or malfunction due to impact. This can affect your visibility on the road and put you at risk for another accident, especially at night—imagine your headlights blinking out at a crucial moment!
The Solution: Replace the bulb with a new one as soon as possible. Ensure you use the correct type and wattage for your specific car model.
4. Misaligned Headlights
The impact of an accident can cause your headlights to become misaligned, resulting in uneven or incorrect lighting. If your headlights are not aimed correctly, it can affect your visibility and also potentially blind other drivers on the road.
The Solution: Have a certified technician professionally realign your headlights to ensure proper headlight repair and prevent glare for other drivers.
5. Wiring Damage
If your car has been in a severe accident, there is a possibility that the wiring connecting your headlights may have been damaged. This can result in one or both headlights not working at all. Without proper headlights, you’ll be at risk for another future accident.
The Solution: Inspect the wiring for any visible damage and replace or repair as necessary. It’s important to have a professional mechanic do this to ensure proper connections and avoid any potential electrical hazards.
Choose Quick and Professional Headlight Repair at Valley Collision
At Valley Collision, we understand the importance of having properly functioning headlights for your safety on the road. That’s why our experienced technicians specialize in post-accident headlight repair, ensuring your lights are properly aligned and fully functional. Don’t compromise your safety by driving with damaged headlights. Visit us today for quick and efficient headlight repairs after an accident.
