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What You Should Know About Aftermarket Headlights Before Buying

By October 31, 2022Aftermarket
Car aftermarket headlights

Aftermarket head lights are becoming increasingly popular with car owners who want to enhance the look of their vehicle, improve their visibility during night driving, or replace an old set of headlights that are beginning to wear out. Whatever your reason for replacing your car’s factory-installed auto headlights, knowing how to find quality aftermarket auto headlight kits at the right price can make all the difference between enjoying your new lights and regretting your purchase. Here’s everything you need to know about buying the best replacement headlight assembly—from the most reliable brands to what features you should look for in your new lights.

What are aftermarket headlights?

Aftermarket describes any product that isn’t an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) but works with it. An aftermarket product, in this case, a headlight, is made by a different company than your car’s maker; you may often see references to them as replacement headlights. They shouldn’t be confused with headlight bulbs. Every aftermarket headlight assembly has three components: a lamp holder, lenses, and reflectors to do its job effectively. Bulbs usually aren’t included in these categories because they are replaced much more frequently than other headlight components. So why do people and auto body shops often choose aftermarket over OEM? They’re usually less expensive than OEM parts and are just as reliable.  

Why should I get these as replacements for my vehicle?

Replacing your car’s stock automatic headlights with aftermarket versions can be a good idea for two main reasons: one, they tend to offer more functionality than standard-issue headlights, and two, they can help you customize your car according to your tastes. It’s also worth noting that replacing your headlights with aftermarket ones is an upgrade for any vehicle. Don’t let anybody tell you differently! However, certain cars will benefit more from aftermarket parts than others. If your current headlights don’t work correctly or aren’t very powerful (which happens a lot), it might be time to think about a change and switch to aftermarket headlights. If you do decide to replace your vehicle’s stock headlights with new aftermarket ones, remember to compare prices and reviews online so that you can get high-quality parts without breaking the bank.

Are aftermarket headlights legal to buy in the USA?

Aftermarket headlights are becoming more popular to buy. But are they legal? That’s a good question, and it could depend on your jurisdiction. The best way to find out if aftermarket automatic headlight kits are legal in your area is to check local laws where you live because the rules governing this often change. Some states have regulations for aftermarket headlights. For instance, California has strict regulations that require headlights to be marked with the manufacturer’s name. If you buy your headlights from another state, they may be illegal.

Similarly, if you buy your headlights online or from other vendors, they may not be certified for use in your state. If you’re unsure of the laws in your state, check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles. Also, consider using one of the online services that offer to check your vehicle for compliance with local regulations. When in doubt, the DMV and DOT should be your go-to resources.

Things to consider before choosing new replacement headlights for your vehicle 

  1. Make sure that your new headlights are bright enough for your area (i.e., high beams vs. low beams) 
  2. Don’t forget safety considerations – do you need extra beams? 
  3. Can you install them yourself, and will it be quick and easy?
  4. Consider whether or not it’s easier to go with standard halogen bulbs or something more exotic like xenon lights, which produce brighter light with less energy consumption. 
  5. Don’t forget about warranty information – what does it cover and what is left out. 
  6. Do some research on aftermarket brands in your region to see who has a good reputation in customer service and product quality. Talk to friends or relatives that have recently had their headlights replaced, as well as check online reviews before making a final decision.

Need high-quality aftermarket headlights? We’ve got you covered! Buy from us to save time and money!

Are you looking for superior-quality aftermarket headlights? Then look no further; we are here to help. With over 15 years of experience in the aftermarket auto parts industry, we can assure you that our products are of the highest quality with the best prices suitable for every pocket. We at Karparts Direct are one of the Los Angeles auto parts stores offering various aftermarket headlights in different sizes and designs to meet your requirements. Call us today or send us an email for a fast quote!