What's the main purpose of a truck headlight?
Beyond simple illumination, headlights are a critical safety system. They provide visibility in darkness and bad weather, signal your vehicle's presence and width to others, and are essential for safe, compliant operation under Hours of Service (HOS) rules. Damaged or dim lights are a safety and legal risk.
Why do headlight lenses turn yellow and cloudy?
This is oxidation. UV rays, road chemicals, and weather break down the plastic lens, blocking over 50% of the light. While cleaning kits can help, severe cases require lens or full assembly replacement for a clear, lasting solution.
Is condensation inside the headlight normal?
Temporary fogging after a wash or temperature change can be normal and should clear quickly. Standing water or persistent droplets mean a failed seal. This will ruin electrical components and requires immediate assembly replacement.
Halogen vs. LED: What should I know before upgrading?
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Halogen: Standard, affordable, but dimmer and less efficient.
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LED: The modern choice—brighter, whiter light, much longer life, and lower energy use. Crucial: You must buy DOT-compliant LED assemblies designed for your truck model. Simply putting LED bulbs in a halogen housing creates illegal, dangerous glare.
When should I replace the whole assembly, not just the bulb?
Replace the entire headlight if you see:
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Cracked or broken lenses
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Water pooling inside
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Peeling or burned reflector coating
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Damaged mounting/aiming parts
Key Maintenance Tip: Aim Your Lights
A misaligned headlight is unsafe and non-compliant. Always have headlights professionally aimed after replacement or front-end work. This ensures maximum visibility without blinding other drivers.
Conclusion
Quality headlights are a direct investment in safety and efficiency. Choosing the right, compliant products and maintaining them properly ensures your fleet operates safely day and night.