LIGHTING
Despite their increasing sophistication, headlamps are reliable components. This is just as well, because they can be expensive to replace. While pattern headlamps, ie. those not supplied by either the car manufacturer, or its suppliers (such as Hella and Valeo, for instance), tend to be less expensive, they may not fit accurately. They also tend to be available only in halogen form, meaning that your choices for new replacements for LED and HID are limited. However, certain car manufacturers (and aftermarket electronic specialists) are offering ‘remanufactured’ second-hand parts that are priced considerably below that of brand-new alternatives.
Impact is the main reason for damaged lamps. You can blame design fashion in part, where the headlamp cover tends not to be recessed and protected by surrounding body panels, but also component itself is more fragile. The plastic lamp moulding, especially, can break surprisingly easily, especially on the points at which the lamp attaches to the body. Apart from risking dazzling other motorists, an insecure headlamp is an MOT failure. Yet, before searching for a replacement, consider the repair option as an even more cost-effective alternative.
