The ability to see and be seen is vital to safety. Fortunately, most lighting problems are relatively uncomplicated and easily corrected.
|
| The Problem |
Is Caused By |
What To Do |
|
| Lights |
|
| One or more lights don't work, but others do |
Defective bulb(s) |
Replace bulb(s) |
| |
Blown fuse(s) |
Replace fuse(s) |
| |
Dirty fuse clips or light sockets |
Clean connections |
| |
Poor ground circuit |
Run ground wire from light socket housing to car frame |
|
| Lights burn out quickly |
Incorrect voltage regulator setting or defective regulator |
Have voltage regulator checked /replaced |
| |
Poor battery/ alternator connections |
Check battery/ alternator connections |
|
| Lights go dim |
Low/discharged battery |
Check battery |
| |
Alternator not charging |
Check drive belt tension; repair or replace alternator |
| |
Corroded sockets or connections |
Clean bulb and socket contacts and connections |
| |
Low voltage output |
Have voltage regulator checked /replaced |
|
| Lights flicker |
Loose connection |
Tighten all connections |
| |
Poor ground |
Run ground wire from light housing to car frame |
| |
Circuit breaker operating (short circuit) |
Check connections and look for bare wires |
|
| Lights "flare"- Some flare is normal on acceleration- if excessive, see "Lights Burn Out Quickly" |
High voltage setting |
Have voltage regulator checked /adjusted |
|
| Lights glare- approaching drivers are blinded |
Lights adjusted too high |
Have headlights aimed |
| |
Rear springs or shocks sagging |
Check rear springs/shocks |
| |
Rear tires soft |
Check/correct rear tire pressure |
|
| Turn Signals |
|
| Turn signals don't work in either direction |
Blown fuse |
Replace fuse |
| |
Defective flasher |
Replace flasher |
| |
Loose connection |
Check/tighten all connections |
|
| Right (or left) turn signal only won't work |
Bulb burned out |
Replace bulb |
| |
Right (or left) indicator bulb burned out |
Check/replace indicator bulb |
| |
Short circuit |
Check/repair wiring |
|
| Flasher rate too slow or too fast |
Incorrect wattage bulb |
Replace bulb |
| |
Incorrect flasher |
Replace flasher (use a variable load flasher If you pull a trailer) |
|
| Indicator lights do not flash (burn steadily) |
Burned out bulb |
Replace bulb |
| |
Defective flasher |
Replace flasher |
| Indicator lights do not light at all |
Burned out Indicator bulb |
Replace indicator bulb |
|