Probable Problems of a Chrysler Sebring Headlight Assembly
The importance of headlights cannot be downplayed. It is an essential tool for safety during nighttime as it aids in visibility of not just the road and cars ahead, but yours also. Some headlight assembly problems are easy to spot, and some aren't easy at all. However, the result is just the same: lower visibility. This is dangerous. Therefore, if you identify any of the problems below, act on them as soon as possible.
Malfunctioning headlights
This normally indicates bulb burnout. Whenever the bulbs have a black residue around it, that means the delicate filament inside fizzed out. Now, burnt or exploded bulbs can be a result of a bunch of reasons but along the lines of normalcy, bulbs have a limited lifespan that depends on frequency of usage and the vibration within the headlight assembly. A typical bulb made of halogen has a service life ranging from 600 to 2000 hours. If you average 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year then the bulbs need to be replaced every five to six years.
Weak illumination
Dirty lenses, misaimed headlights or fogging within the assembly, cause weak illumination. This is of course, stemming strictly from a headlight assembly problem. Other problems, electrical problems to be specific, could also be a part of weak illumination from headlights. Discoloration, especially on plastic headlight lenses, can also be a reason behind weak illumination. Plastics, once exposed lengthily to UV rays, can lose their transparency and turn translucent to almost opaque because of oxidization. Use the proper cleaning agents and procedures when dealing with these problems.
Moisture, condensation, or water in the headlights
A sealed compartment such as a headlight assembly is made the way it is because no amount of moisture and condensation should get inside it. However, through the course of time, the seals on the assembly can get weak and worn out. Such is the case for rubber seals around the headlight assembly. They get brittle and cracked, and that lets water in the assembly. Once the hot light of the bulb heats the water, it turns to vapor. The tiny vapors clouds up the beam and the usable light becomes less. Physical damage on the assembly, such as cracks and holes, could cause this mishap. Re-sealing the headlight could be a hassle but it can be done. However, once the assembly has sustained significant damage, it must be replaced immediately. Driving even without headlights could get you into hot water with the authorities.