You have a broken headlight: What now?

So you have a broken headlight… what now? Some drivers may ignore it, figuring they can limp by until they get around to fixing it. However, you can get into trouble with a broken headlight so it’s in your best interest to address it right away. We’re “Making it Simple™” at Toyota of Orlando – check out our guide on handling this broken car part!

What Happens If You Have a Broken Headlight?

First of all, let’s talk about the risks of driving around with a broken headlight so you understand why you should get it fixed immediately. Here’s what our Orlando Toyota repair experts have to say about the risks:

• You have less visibility in the dark with a broken headlight. This makes you more susceptible to accidents and collisions because you can’t see as well, which means you’re putting yourself and others in danger.
• You also have less visibility when driving in the rain. You should turn on your headlights when driving in the rain not so you can see better, but so other drivers can see your vehicle better. If you have a broken headlight, they can’t see you as well… which again means you’re more at-risk for an accident or collision.
• You can be pulled over – it’s illegal to drive without headlights in Orlando and the state of Florida. Both of your headlights need to be in good working condition from dusk until dawn. Being pulled over can result in a ticket, which means a fine and possible points on your driver’s license.

That’s why it’s critical to deal with the issue right away. But how should you handle it?

How to Fix a Broken Headlight

The repairs you’ll need depend on what’s wrong with your headlight. If it’s broken in terms of not illuminating, you may need a replacement bulb or have a wiring issue. If you have a broken headlight cover, it means the casing around the light has been shattered or cracked and needs to be fixed. Let’s dive into both issues.

If Your Headlight Isn’t Illuminating

You need to check the bulb first. Has it burnt out? If so, you need to replace it. You can check with our Toyota of Orlando parts store – they can help you find the right bulb for your make and model. Swapping the bulb is usually a pretty simple fix, but if you’re uncomfortable and need some assistance our service team is happy to help.

However, sometimes it’s not the bulb. If you replace the lightbulb and the headlight still isn’t working, you may have issues with:

• A blown fuse in the headlight circuit
• Damaged wiring in the headlight
• A bad battery connection
• Delayed headlight relay
• A faulty headlight switch

All of the above are worth a visit to Toyota of Orlando to have our techs take a peek and see what’s going on.

If You Have a Broken Headlight Cover

What if the casing – the clear plastic over the headlight – gets broken in an accident or collision? In this case, you may be able to just replace the casing (and the Toyota of Orlando service center has got you on that one). However, there may be more damage to the bulb, the lens, the wiring, etc. if you get into an accident or collision, so it’s definitely worth taking a closer look. Here’s what you should do if you have a broken headlight cover.

• If you got into an accident or collision, call your insurance company to see if your policy will pay for a broken headlight. This is wise if the accident wasn’t your fault or if you think there may be more damage to the headlight than just the cover.
• Bring your car into our auto service center to let our techs take a look. They can fix a broken headlight cover, replace your bulb, and our body shop can repair any other damage your car sustained in the accident or collision.

How Much Does Broken Headlight Repair Cost?

Just like most other car repairs, there’s no black-and-white answer when it comes to broken headlight repair cost. Here’s a general idea:

• Replacing a headlight bulb is usually pretty inexpensive – it can run $20-30 depending on the bulb you need and if you can do it yourself (having it installed by a professional may cost a bit more).
• Replacing a headlight lens can cost between $100-300.
• Replacing a headlight switch can be anywhere from $150-250.
• Replacing headlight wiring can be anywhere from $125 and up depending on the extent of the wiring damage.
• Replacing an entire headlight assembly can run anywhere from $100-1,000 depending on your vehicle and the extent of the damage.

Keep in mind that if there’s other damage to your car (like from an accident or collision), it could cost more to get things up and running again. Our Orlando Toyota body shop is here to get you back on the road in no time.

Schedule Broken Headlight Repair at Toyota of Orlando

Need repairs for your headlights? We’ve got your back. Schedule repairs today at Toyota of Orlando. You can call us at (407) 298-0001 or stop by 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Mall of Millenia!

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