When it comes to upgrading your car or truck’s lighting system with new, brightly-shining headlights, you want to be sure that the bulbs are going to last as long as possible.
Do HID bulbs dim over time?
HID headlights (High-Intensity Discharge), also known as Xenon gas bulbs, provide an enviable shine that illuminates the road with a pure white light. However, HID headlights can eventually lose their brightness over time.
Why does this occur? Read on for common reasons why HID headlights lose their initial intensity.
Why do Xenon/HID headlights lose brightness?
HID headlight bulbs display degradation (a progressive dimming) throughout their lifespan, but at a really slow rate. Due to the very slow-moving process of this degradation, some vehicle owners aren’t always sure when it is time to replace their headlight bulbs.
How does this dimming happen?
- Over time, HID bulbs experience loss of internal chemicals that are needed to create the bright light projection.
- Additionally, a gradual darkening of the inner tube of the bulb accumulates.
- This inner tube is where the chemical reaction occurs that creates the light.
- The darkening of the tube/loss of light is therefore part of the degradation process.
How long do HID headlights last?
- Research has shown that high-quality, durable HID headlights can last up to 10,000-15,000 hours of use before needing to be replaced.
- When HID headlights lose a substantial amount of brightness, the result is that the bulbs are no longer suitable or safe for use when driving in dark or otherwise hazardous road conditions.
- A sign that your HID bulbs may be on the brink of going out, in addition to noticeably decreased brightness, is a change from bright white to blue or purple-tinted light.
- Another sign that your headlights are losing steam is a reoccurring flickering on and off, which intensifies and happens more frequently as the bulb’s brightness continues to fade. This process is called “cycling.”
- If you see a shift in color, a flickering and/or weakened light intensity projected by your vehicle’s headlights, it is likely time to make a switch to new bulbs.
Extending the lifespan of Xenon HID bulbs
- What’s the good news? Although HID bulbs will eventually go out, there are steps you can take to maximize their lifespan and functionality for your car or truck.
- Basically, a Xenon/HID bulb’s lifespan is most affected by how much they are turned on and off.
- Most people think that a headlight bulb’s longevity is dependent upon the total length of time they are in use while driving, but that is not the case.
- Keeping this in mind, be sure to keep the frequency with which you turn them on and off to the bare minimum. The less you do so, the longer the bulbs will last.
- Give your HID bulbs time to cool down between uses
- Another factor that speeds up the gradual dimming process is turning your headlights on when they’re still hot, like after a long drive.
- Instead, let them cool down for up to 20 minutes when possible. The longer you let them “rest,” the longer they’ll last overall.
- Make sure your headlight assemblies are clean—free of dirt, water, and moisture. If they look dirty or hazy, cleaning them will help boost their longevity and functionality.
Start your engines! The best and brightest HID/Xenon headlights are instock and ready to add an instant upgrade to your car or truck.Call, chat, emailthe pros at Underground Lighting hook you up with exactly what you need for your vehicle.
I'm an automotive lighting enthusiast with a deep understanding of HID bulbs and their performance characteristics. My expertise is grounded in extensive research, hands-on experience, and a passion for staying abreast of advancements in automotive lighting technology. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about HID bulbs.
Do HID Bulbs Fade Over Time?
Absolutely, HID bulbs (High-Intensity Discharge), commonly known as Xenon gas bulbs, do experience a gradual loss of brightness over their lifespan. This phenomenon is attributed to the slow degradation of internal chemicals within the bulb and the darkening of the inner tube where the chemical reaction occurs to produce the light.
Why do Xenon/HID Headlights Lose Brightness?
The degradation process involves the loss of internal chemicals crucial for generating the bright light projection. Additionally, the gradual darkening of the inner tube contributes to the diminishing intensity of the light emitted by HID bulbs.
How Long Do HID Headlights Last?
Research suggests that high-quality HID headlights can last between 10,000 to 15,000 hours of use before needing replacement. However, it's essential to monitor signs of decreased brightness, a shift in color from white to blue or purple, and the occurrence of flickering or cycling, as these indicate the bulb's impending failure.
Extending the Lifespan of Xenon HID Bulbs
There are proactive measures you can take to maximize the lifespan of HID bulbs:
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Minimize On/Off Frequency: Contrary to common belief, the longevity of HID bulbs is not solely dependent on the total time they are in use. Instead, it's influenced by how frequently they are turned on and off. Minimizing this frequency can significantly extend their lifespan.
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Cool Down Period: Allowing HID bulbs to cool down between uses, especially after a long drive, is crucial. A 20-minute cooling period can contribute to prolonging their overall lifespan.
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Keep Headlight Assemblies Clean: Ensure that headlight assemblies are free of dirt, water, and moisture. Regular cleaning not only enhances visibility but also contributes to the longevity and functionality of HID bulbs.
In conclusion, while HID bulbs will eventually lose their brightness and need replacement, proactive maintenance practices can significantly extend their lifespan and optimize their performance. If you're considering an upgrade, high-quality HID/Xenon headlights can provide a bright and durable lighting solution for your vehicle.
