Don’t Drive Around This Winter in the Dark

Why Are My Headlights Too Dim?

The General Motors lineup for sale or lease at Davis Chevrolet is equipped with some of the most advanced safety gear ever developed. Even with that in mind, a vehicle’s headlights are still the primary way people can drive safely at night. Headlights not only help the driver see the road, but they also allow a vehicle to be seen by other drivers. If you’re wondering, ‘Why are my headlights too dim?’ our team of product experts have some suggestions that could restore your peace of mind.

READ MORE: Need New Headlights? Start here!

Restore Your Headlights Lens

Over time, headlights become cloudy and yellowed due to oxidation, dirt, and road grime. Even if your bulbs are in perfect working order, a dirty lens can significantly reduce brightness. Sometimes, all it takes is a good cleaning to make a noticeable difference. There are a few simple methods you can use to restore the headlights to like-new condition. Our team uses the following do-it-yourself tips:

• Soap and Water: A simple wash can remove surface dirt.
• Headlight Restoration Kits: These kits contain sanding pads and polishing compounds to remove oxidation.
• Baking Soda & Vinegar: Mix baking soda with a little vinegar to make a paste, then rub it onto the headlight lens with a microfiber cloth.
• Toothpaste Method: Apply non-gel toothpaste and scrub with a soft cloth—this works as a mild abrasive to remove foggy buildup.

Diagnose Potential Electrical Problems

Even with brand-new bulbs, you might still experience dim headlights. In that case, the culprit could be your car’s electrical system. A weak battery or failing alternator can reduce the power supplied to your headlights, making them appear dimmer. If your lights flicker or seem to gradually lose brightness over time, it may be worth having a mechanic inspect your electrical system. 

Additionally, corroded or loose wiring can limit the power reaching your bulbs, so checking for faulty connections is another smart step.

Don’t Cross the Beams

Sometimes, headlights aren’t necessarily dim, they’re just pointing in the wrong direction. If your headlights are misaligned, they won’t shine effectively on the road where you need them most. This can happen over time due to rough driving conditions, small bumps, or simple wear and tear. If you’ve noticed that your beams don’t seem to illuminate the road as well as they should, check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to adjust them—or take your car to a mechanic for realignment.

If these tips don’t work out for you, the team at the Davis Chevrolet Service Department is always ready to help. Make an appointment with us today.