Today’s automotive headlamp assemblies are a composite modular design with separate bulbs at the rear of the reflector. They offer contoured designs that are aerodynamic and more stylish than the sealed-beam headlamps they replaced in the mid-80s. While the bulbs are easier to replace compared to the sealed-beam units, unfortunately the lenses occasionally get damaged by a small stone, highway debris or even the sun’s UV rays.

MODULAR HEADLAMP BULBS

Many vehicles built in recent years are equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) or conventional halogen beam bulbs. HID lamps get their name from the intense white light produced by the electrical discharge. The light produced by the HID lamps appears as a white color as opposed to the yellow color of the standard halogen lamps.

Note: HID bulbs are a type of high voltage discharge tube (FIGURE 1) . High voltage can remain in the circuit even with the headlamp switch off and the key removed. Because of this, you should not attempt to service a HID headlamp bulb yourself. If a bulb fails, take your vehicle to a certified repair facility. Conventional halogen bulbs have a filament in a pressure-filled halogen capsule. They have a surface that stains easily when handled, as a result replacement bulbs come with removable plastic covers.

Note: Never touch the glass surface of any halogen or High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulb with your fingers or other oily surface. Oil on the glass surface will reduce the life of the bulb. If you accidently touch the bulb, use rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth to clean the surface. Do not use bulbs that have a higher candlepower than the factory installed bulb. Damage to the lamp can occur.

Lamp sockets that are exposed to moisture should be coated with Mopar Multi-Purpose Grease, or equivalent, to avoid corrosion. If the socket has become corroded, clean the socket and bulb base with an abrasive fiber sand pad or metallic bristle brush. Replace sockets and bulbs that are deformed from corrosion that could prevent a continuous body ground.

HEADLAMP REPAIR

Headlamps are often replaced prematurely. It is important to note that composite headlamp fogging is a normal condition that does not require service unless the moisture becomes excessive or continues for an extended period of time. Moisture will vent from tubes or vents located on the back of the headlamp unit.

Over time, composite headlamp surfaces will deteriorate from environmental effects, so much, that their brightness is severely diminished. They can become scratched, cracked, clouded or hazed. If the damage is minor, such as scratches or hazing, the headlamps can be restored.

A WORD ON REPLACEMENT

Mopar headlamp assemblies offer a number of competitive advantages. First of all, Mopar products are O.E. quality and factory fit, so there is never any question whether a replacement assembly will fit correctly. Furthermore, all lamp assemblies are designed and engineered exclusively for use on Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. Bulbs are included in most lamp assemblies and you’ll find that Mopar headlamp assemblies are competitively priced.