Nov 24, 2023

Headlights help you see the road at night and on cloudy days, so when your headlights are broken, it might not be safe to drive your car. Whether you just noticed a sign that you need new headlights or your current headlights have already burned out, you can schedule service at your GMC dealer to replace your headlights in a jiffy. 

A car's headlights pointing directly at the camera near Beloit, Wisconsin.

Replacing your headlights at your dealership can be done in less than an hour. Rather than using generic aftermarket headlights, it’s better to use the specific bulb brand recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. You can find this information in your owner’s manual. 


When you replace your headlights, you should always replace both bulbs at the same time. If one bulb is out, the other one will soon follow. It’s also a good idea to have a mechanic look at other lights on your vehicle, such as turn signal indicators, fog lights, high beam lights, low beam lights, brake lights, and taillights. Many drivers choose to replace all exterior lights during the same appointment to save a trip to the dealership. 



How Long Do Headlights Last?

If your vehicle has basic halogen lights, you can expect your headlights to last for about 500 to 1,000 hours. Typically, this means you may need to replace your headlights at least once a year, depending on how often you drive your car. Other headlights, such as LED lights, can last well over 20,000 hours, which is why many automakers are incorporating LED headlights as a standard feature on new models. 



Why Are LED Lights Preferred?

Aside from the fact that LED lights tend to last much longer than other bulbs, these lights are far more efficient and create a much brighter light. LED lights have smaller bulbs, take up less space on your vehicle, and draw from your alternator far less than halogen and HID bulbs. LED lights are also immediately bright, unlike other bulbs that might take longer to reach full illumination intensity. 



Should You Upgrade Your Headlights at Your GMC Dealer?

Depending on your GMC model, you could upgrade your headlights to longer-lasting bulbs. For example, if you have regular halogen lights, a GMC mechanic might be able to install the correct wiring infrastructure to support LED lights. If you want to upgrade your lights, it’s important to have them installed at the dealership to ensure they are installed correctly. Installing new lights at the dealership will also protect the warranty on your vehicle. 


Headlights are crucial for your vehicle, so as soon as you notice your headlights failing, you should head over to the dealership for replacement lights. Reserve your next service appointment at Finley GMC today.