is it normal for both headlights on a car to go out at almost the same time?

Question

i just recently changed my passenger side headlight (it went out last week) and my dome light inside my car (which blew at about the same time)....and now my driver's side headlight is out (just realized last night)! i drive a 2004 honda civic...is it just that the lights have a limited lifetime, or should i be concerned with the electrical system in my car?

Answer 1

Halogen headlights are rated for a specific lifespan. When I was in the parts business I always tried to explain to people that if one went, the other ain't far behind. Yes this is normal, listen to your other poster, and next time it happens, swap them both and save yourself the hassle.

Answer 2

Sounds to me like it might be a circuit system issue.....your warranty is still probably active, take it your Honda Dealer.

Good luck!

P.S. My first car was an 86 Honda Civic Hatchback stick shift, I LOVED that thing!!! Just didn't realize that you are supposed to have your timing belt changed every so many miles....oops. Just heed my warning, and learn from my mistake, make sure you replace the timing belt like your owner's manual said. My engine just got ruined, and we wound up junking the car. :-(

Answer 3

Sounds more like a fuse / electrical problem rather than the lightbulbs burning out. Your best choice is to have a profesional look at it. Since its only 2 years old, more than like its under warranty. Take advantage of it and check it out.

Answer 4

They "burn" at the same rate. I change mine in pairs and keep the old one in the glove compartment as a backup. There's the chance you are getting voltage spikes, but you should see "flares" in your lighting. I saw that when I had a bad alternator.

Answer 5

that's odd but not impossible.. but only 2 years old? could be the electrical system. are dashboard lights dim?.. do you have something plugged into cigarette light all the time that may be draining it?..

Answer 6

could be your headlight switch.