Blowing dipped beam bulbs

[pedderd]

Hi,

Has anyone else had a problem with dipped beam bulbs not lasting very long ?

When I got the car 6 months ago, the RH dipped beam bulb needed replacing. Then about a month ago the LH. And now the RH again.

Is this normal ?

Thanks.

 

[JOB-BLACK-RAT]

Hi there,

Not really no, should be lasting longer than that (though they do tend to go more at this time of year?).

Are you fitting them without holding/touching the glass of the bulb? as this cause problems.

 

[WOODYTHEWISE]

Hi there,


Are you fitting them without holding/touching the glass of the bulb? as this cause problems.

Good point

 

[grober]

Get an AUTO electrician to check your alternator output voltage.

 

[Dieselman]

What brand of lamp was it, some last no time at all.

Check the battery has enough electrolyte in as if low it causes voltage spikes.

 

[markjay]

I had a car once with over-voltage issues, but it kept blowing bulbs at random i.e. not just the dipped-beam ones.

It is more likely to be due to poor quality bulbs - try to stick with Philips or Osram - or due to use of high-performance bulbs which burn brighter but naturally have shorter life.

Or just bad luck...

 

[pedderd]

Thanks all.

Standard Halfords H7's were the culprit. I was pretty careful in not touching the lens.

I did notice the LH bulb didn't come on briefly while I changed the RH. Then it returned.

I think I will get the battery and the alternator checked to make sure they are in good nick, then give a decent pair of better quality bulbs a go.

Any suggestions on 'enhanced' H7's ? Osram Nightbreaker Plus look good.

 

[markjay]

I use the older version Nightbreaker and they are great but only last around a year or so. The Nightbreaker Plus should last longer. But very good bulbs. Or you can try Philips xTreme.

 

[pedderd]

Xtreme on their way, as well as a pair of CANBUS 501 for the sides.

Fingers crossed they last.

Thanks for the help

 

[pedderd]

If it helps anyone, Philips bulbs have held up nicely