This article will address the recurring issue of GM headlight problems that many car owners have been experiencing. It will provide an overview of the malfunctioning headlights in GM vehicles and the impact it has on driver safety.
The article will discuss common symptoms of headlight malfunctions, potential causes, and possible solutions for GM owners facing this issue. Additionally, it will highlight the importance of addressing these problems promptly to ensure road safety.
6 GM Headlight Problems & Step by Step Solutions
#1. GM Headlights Faulty Switch
What Is It?
GM Headlight Problems can arise due to a faulty switch, causing headlights to malfunction or not turn on at all. This issue affects various GM vehicle models and can lead to reduced visibility and safety concerns.
What Causes a faulty switch in gM headlights?
- Loose electrical connection in switch.
- Worn out or damaged switch.
How to fix a Faulty Switch in GM Headlights?
Step 1: Loose electrical connection in switch
- Turn off the headlights and remove the key from the ignition to ensure safety.
- Open the hood of the vehicle and locate the headlight switch. It is usually positioned near the steering column.
- Inspect the wiring harness connected to the switch. Look for any loose or disconnected wires.
- If you find any loose wires, carefully reconnect them to the appropriate terminals on the switch. Ensure they are securely fastened.
- Test the headlights by turning the switch on. If the headlights function properly, the loose electrical connection was the issue. If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Worn out or damaged switch
- With the headlights still turned off and the key removed from the ignition, remove the headlight switch from its mounting.
- Disconnect the wiring harness connected to the switch.
- Inspect the switch for any signs of wear or damage, such as corrosion, melted plastic, or broken components.
- If the switch appears worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Purchase a new switch from a GM dealership or an authorized parts retailer.
- Install the new switch by connecting the wiring harness to its appropriate terminals.
- Mount the switch back into its original position.
- Test the headlights by turning the switch on. If the headlights function properly, the worn out or damaged switch was the issue. If not, further troubleshooting may be required.
#2. GM Headlights Frequent Bulb Burnout
What Is It?
One prevalent issue faced by GM vehicle owners is the frequent bulb burnout problem in GM headlights. This recurring problem, known as GM Headlight Problems, occurs when the bulbs in GM headlights frequently burn out, causing inconvenience and lack of visibility for drivers.
What Causes Frequent bulb burnout in GM Headlights?
- Voltage fluctuations leading to overheating.
- Poor quality or defective bulbs.
How to fix frequent bulb burnout problem in GM Headlights?
Step 1: Voltage Fluctuations
- Use a multimeter to measure the voltage of the vehicle’s battery when the engine is off and when it is running. The voltage should be around 12 volts when the engine is off and around 13-14 volts when the engine is running. If the voltage is significantly higher or lower than these values, it indicates a problem with the charging system.
- The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and providing power to the electrical components of the vehicle. Check the alternator for any signs of damage or loose connections. Also, check the alternator output using a multimeter to ensure it is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
- The voltage regulator controls the amount of voltage that is sent to the headlights. If the voltage regulator is faulty, it can cause voltage spikes or drops, leading to bulb burnout. Test the voltage regulator using a multimeter, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Inspect the wiring and connectors for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Any issues with the wiring can cause voltage fluctuations. Clean or repair any damaged or corroded connectors and ensure that all connections are tight.
Step 2: Poor Quality Bulbs
- Cheap or low-quality bulbs may have a shorter lifespan and are more prone to burning out. Invest in high-quality bulbs from reputable manufacturers to ensure better durability and performance.
- Improper installation can lead to premature bulb failure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the bulbs are securely and correctly installed. Avoid touching the bulb glass with bare hands, as oil from your skin can lead to hot spots and early bulb burnout.
- Excessive vibration can cause bulbs to fail prematurely. Inspect the headlight assembly and mounting brackets for any signs of damage or looseness. Replace any worn-out or damaged components that may contribute to excessive vibration.
- LED bulbs are known for their longer lifespan and better resistance to voltage fluctuations. Consider upgrading to LED bulbs as they are more durable and can withstand voltage variations better than traditional halogen bulbs.
How to fix GM Headlights Not Working
Headlight Problems in Other GM Models:
#3. GM Stuck headlight Relay
What Is It?
GM Headlight Problems can include a common issue known as a stuck headlight relay. This problem occurs when the relay responsible for controlling the headlights gets stuck in the on position, causing the headlights to remain illuminated even when the vehicle is turned off.
What Causes a stuck headlight relay in GM Headlights?
- Faulty wiring connection or harness.
- Burnt out relay switch.
How to fix a stuck headlight relay problem in GM Headlights?
Step 1: Check for Faulty Wiring Connection or Harness
- Turn off the vehicle’s engine and remove the key from the ignition.
- Open the hood and locate the headlight relay switch. It is usually found in the fuse/relay box under the hood or in the engine compartment.
- Inspect the wiring connections leading to the relay switch. Look for any loose, corroded, or damaged wires.
- If you find any faulty wiring connections, gently tighten or repair them as needed. Ensure that all connections are secure and free from damage.
Step 2: Check for Burnt Out Relay Switch
- Once again, turn off the vehicle’s engine and remove the key from the ignition.
- Locate the headlight relay switch, either in the fuse/relay box under the hood or in the engine compartment.
- Carefully remove the relay switch from its socket. Refer to the vehicle’s owner manual or a repair guide if you are unsure about the location.
- Inspect the relay switch for any signs of burning, melting, or discoloration. These are indications that the relay switch is burnt out.
- If the relay switch appears burnt out, it will need to be replaced. Purchase a new relay switch that matches the specifications of the old one.
- Install the new relay switch into the socket and ensure it is securely seated.
- Close the hood and start the vehicle’s engine. Test the headlights to confirm that the issue has been resolved.
#4. GM Headlights Flickering
What Is It?
GM Headlight Problems can include a frustrating flickering issue that many drivers encounter. This problem occurs when the headlights intermittently flicker on and off, causing decreased visibility and potential safety hazards.
What Causes Flickering problem in GM Headlights?
- Loose electrical connection causing flickering.
- Faulty headlight bulb causing flickering.
How to fix flickering problem in gM Headlights?
Step 1: Check for Loose Electrical Connections
- Turn off the vehicle’s engine and open the hood.
- Locate the headlight electrical connections on the back of the headlight assembly.
- Gently wiggle the connectors to check for any loose connections.
- If you find any loose connections, firmly push them together to ensure a secure connection.
- Close the hood and test the headlights to see if the flickering issue has resolved. If not, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2: Inspect and Replace Faulty Headlight Bulbs
- Turn off the engine and open the hood.
- Locate the headlight bulb assembly behind the headlight lens.
- Carefully remove the headlight bulb by twisting it counterclockwise and pulling it out.
- Inspect the bulb for any signs of damage, such as a broken filament or discoloration.
- If the bulb appears to be faulty, purchase a replacement bulb that matches the specifications of your vehicle’s headlights.
- Install the new headlight bulb by inserting it into the socket and twisting it clockwise until it locks into place.
- Close the hood and test the headlights again to check if the flickering issue has been resolved. If the problem persists, further troubleshooting may be necessary.
#5. GM Headlights Len’s Fogging
What Is It?
One of the common GM Headlight Problems is lens fogging. This issue occurs when moisture accumulates inside the headlight lens, leading to reduced visibility and potentially compromising driving safety.
What Causes Lens fogging in GM Headlights?
- Humidity inside the headlight assembly.
- Temperature difference between inside/outside.
How to fix Lens fogging problem in GM Headlights?
Here are the step-by-step solutions to address lens fogging problems in GM headlights, starting with the humidity inside the headlight assembly and then addressing the temperature difference inside and outside:
- Start by disconnecting the battery to ensure safety. Depending on your GM model, you may need to remove the front grille, bumper cover, or other components to gain access to the headlight assembly. Carefully detach any electrical connections and mounting screws to remove the assembly.
- Once the headlight assembly is removed, you need to dry out the interior to eliminate any moisture. There are a few options to achieve this:
- While the headlight assembly is off, carefully inspect the lens for any cracks, gaps, or damaged seals that may be contributing to the fogging issue. If any issues are detected, they should be addressed and repaired accordingly.
- If you find any cracks, gaps, or damaged seals, use an appropriate headlight sealant or silicone adhesive to seal them. Apply the sealant evenly and allow it to dry completely before reassembling the headlight.
- Some headlight assemblies have built-in vents or breather holes to allow for pressure equalization. Ensure that these vents are not blocked or obstructed, as they may contribute to moisture buildup. If necessary, clean or clear any blockages in the venting system.
- Once the headlight assembly is completely dry and any repairs or sealants have fully cured, carefully reinstall the assembly. Reconnect any electrical connections and secure the mounting screws or clips as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- While humidity is usually the primary cause of fogging, temperature differences between the inside and outside of the headlight assembly can exacerbate the issue. To minimize temperature differences:
#6. GM Headlights Alignment Issues
What Is It?
GM Headlight Problems occur when the alignment of the headlights becomes an issue. This can lead to reduced visibility while driving at night, potentially putting the driver and other road users at risk.
What Causes Improper alignment in GM Headlights?
- Loose or worn mounting brackets.
- Damaged or misaligned adjustment screws.
How to fix improper alignment problem in GM Headlights?
Step 1: Checking for Loose or Worn Mounting Brackets
- Park your vehicle on a flat surface facing a wall or garage door.
- Turn on the headlights and observe their alignment on the wall.
- If you notice that the headlights are misaligned or pointing in different directions, it may indicate loose or worn mounting brackets.
- Open the hood of your vehicle and locate the mounting brackets behind the headlights.
- Inspect the brackets for any signs of looseness, damage, or wear.
- If you find any loose or worn brackets, tighten them using appropriate tools or replace them if necessary.
- Once the brackets are tightened or replaced, test the headlight alignment again by observing the projection on the wall.
Step 2: Checking for Damaged or Misaligned Adjustment Screws
- If the headlight alignment issue persists after checking the mounting brackets, it may be caused by damaged or misaligned adjustment screws.
- Locate the adjustment screws behind or around the headlight assembly. These screws control the vertical and horizontal alignment of the headlights.
- Inspect the adjustment screws for any signs of damage or misalignment.
- If the screws are damaged, replace them with new ones.
- If the screws are misaligned, use a screwdriver or appropriate tool to adjust them according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Start by adjusting the vertical alignment. Turn the vertical adjustment screw clockwise to raise the headlight beam or counterclockwise to lower it. Make small adjustments and test the alignment on the wall.
- After adjusting the vertical alignment, proceed to adjust the horizontal alignment. Turn the horizontal adjustment screw clockwise to move the beam to the right or counterclockwise to move it to the left. Again, make small adjustments and test the alignment on the wall.
- Continue adjusting the screws until the headlights are properly aligned and projecting an even beam on the wall.
Headlight Problems in Subaru Models:
- Subaru Automatic Headlight Problems
- Subaru Crosstrek headlight Problems
- Subaru Headlight Problems
- 2015 Subaru Forester Headlight Problems
- Subaru Impreza Headlight Problems
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do GM headlights typically last?
GM headlights typically last anywhere from 500 to 2,000 hours, depending on the specific model and type of bulb used. However, factors such as driving conditions, bulb quality, and maintenance can affect the lifespan.
Can I replace GM headlights with aftermarket options?
Yes, you can replace GM headlights with aftermarket options. However, it’s important to ensure compatibility with your specific GM model and follow any installation instructions provided by the aftermarket manufacturer.
How much does it cost to replace GM headlights?
The cost of replacing GM headlights can vary depending on the model, type of bulb, and whether you choose OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket options. Generally, the cost can range from $50 to $200 per headlight, including parts and labor. It’s best to check with your local GM dealership or automotive service center for an accurate estimate.
