Blog / Fort Smith Hyundai Service

Signs You Need New Headlights From Your Hyundai Dealer

Overhead view of the front of a red 2020 Hyundai Veloster. | Hyundai dealer in Fort Smith, AR.
Your headlights are the best, and sometimes only, way to see your way when you're driving at night. In a town or city, you'll get some help from the street lights, but this doesn't replace the need for good, working headlights. In time, you'll need new headlights, and your Hyundai dealer can install them for you. These are some of the signs that your headlights may be failing.

Dim Headlights

If you turn on your headlights and all you get is a dim glow instead of a bright beam, your bulbs may be failing. This is usually the most obvious sign that it's time to change your bulbs. Headlight bulbs have a varied lifespan depending on the type you have installed. Their average life varies from 500 hours to 30,000 hours. We can test your bulbs and replace them if they're wearing out. We advise replacing both bulbs, even if only one of them is dim. The reason for this is bulbs are installed in pairs, and if one fails, the second will most likely blow in a couple of days. If you're thinking of installing longer-life bulbs, our technicians will be happy to advise you on the best bulbs for your Hyundai model.

Blown Bulbs

A dead headlight bulb is a definite sign that you need replacements. If your bulb has failed within its average life, there's no cause for concern. Should you find you have to replace a bulb more than once a year, there's some other problem causing the failures. Bulbs can fail due to alternator problems, blown fuses, wiring issues, and corrosion in the bulb socket. One of the main causes of early bulb failure is a worn alternator. The alternator produces your car's electrical power. When your alternator gets older, it produces less power to supply all your car's needs. Your headlights will be supplied with only enough power to light up. Headlights need a constant, consistent power supply, and the reduced power will cause them to blow.

Damaged Lenses

Your headlight bulbs are protected by clear plastic lenses. The lenses protect the bulb and electrical wiring from water, dirt, and other debris. They can, however, get damaged due to sand, stones, or other material that's thrown up from the road surface. A small crack in the lens can allow water inside, and water can cause a variety of damage. Moisture can build up on the inside of a lens and turn it foggy. Water can also cause corrosion to the bulb socket or the electrical wiring. We can replace the lens and clean the wiring and recess to fix this problem. If you're experiencing headlight problems, call us immediately at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith. Image via Hyundai.
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Interior view of the steering wheel and dashboard area in a 2023 Hyundai Sonata. | Hyundai dealer in Fort Smith, AR | Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith

Ask the Hyundai Dealer: 4 Common Signs of a Faulty Ignition Coil

The ignition coil, an essential component in your Hyundai's ignition system, is responsible for transforming low voltage from the battery into high voltage required to generate a spark for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Visiting a Hyundai dealer for diagnosis and repairs is crucial as they have specialized knowledge, ensuring accurate identification of the faulty ignition coil and reliable repairs tailored specifically to your vehicle. 1. A Loss of Power If you notice a significant loss of power in your vehicle, it could be a sign of a defective ignition coil. When the coil is faulty, it may fail to deliver a strong spark, resulting in poor engine performance. You may experience sluggish acceleration, difficulty climbing hills, or a general lack of power. If you start to experience these symptoms, it's best to have your ignition coil checked by a qualified mechanic to regain optimal engine function. 2. Your Check Engine Light Is On One of the common indicators of a defective ignition coil is the illumination of the check engine light on your dashboard. The check engine light serves as a warning system that detects various issues with your vehicle's components, including the ignition system. When the ignition coil is malfunctioning, it can trigger the check engine light. Ignoring this warning can lead to further engine damage or decreased fuel efficiency. It's important to have your vehicle's diagnostic system scanned to retrieve error codes and pinpoint the specific issue. A professional mechanic can then diagnose the problem and recommend the necessary repairs to resolve the ignition coil issue. 3. Your Fuel Economy Decreases A damaged ignition coil can contribute to poor fuel economy in your vehicle. When the coil is faulty, it can lead to incomplete combustion or misfires, resulting in inefficient fuel consumption. You may notice that you are visiting the gas station more frequently than usual and that your vehicle's fuel efficiency has significantly decreased. 4. Misfiring Engine When an engine misfires, it means that one or more cylinders fail to ignite the air-fuel mixture properly. This can result in a rough-running engine, noticeable vibrations, and a lack of smooth power delivery. A damaged ignition coil can cause inconsistent or weak sparks, leading to misfires. If you experience frequent engine misfires, it's crucial to have your ignition coil checked. Ignoring this issue can lead to further damage to the engine components, such as the spark plugs or catalytic converter. Potential causes of a defective ignition coil include electrical faults, wear and tear over time, exposure to extreme temperatures, or moisture intrusion, which can all lead to compromised performance and eventual failure. If you've experienced any of the above-named issues, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Send us a message at Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith to book your diagnostic appointment with our experienced team.

Rear profile view of a gray 2023 Hyundai Sonata. | Hyundai dealer in Fort Smith, AR | Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith

Signs You Need New Spark Plugs From Your Hyundai Dealer

A vital component in your vehicle's engine system is the spark plug, and detecting early signs that your Hyundai needs new spark plugs can enhance performance, save you on fuel consumption, and prevent more serious problems down the road. Talk to a Hyundai dealer if you notice any of the following signs. Decreased Fuel Efficiency One of the first telltale signs that your Hyundai might require new plugs is a decrease in fuel efficiency. These plugs play an instrumental role in combusting the fuel in your engine, so if they are malfunctioning, your car may consume more fuel than necessary. If you notice you're visiting the gas station more frequently, it's time to consider having your plugs checked. Difficulty Starting the Vehicle These plugs are key to starting your Hyundai. They ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's combustion chamber, enabling your vehicle to start. If your Hyundai struggles to start, or you're experiencing more instances of your car failing to turn over, it may be a sign that your plugs need replacement. Poor Acceleration and Rough Idling The state of your plugs can impact your Hyundai's overall performance. If you're experiencing sluggish acceleration or your vehicle seems less responsive when you hit the gas pedal, it may be due to worn plugs. Additionally, a rough idle – where your Hyundai feels shaky and produces a loud, irregular noise while stationary – can also point to spark plug issues. Misfires and Engine Surges Finally, engine misfires or surges are significant indicators of spark plug failure. If your engine is not running smoothly or if it surges and falls repeatedly, it can be due to malfunctioning plugs. This erratic operation can lead to larger issues if not addressed promptly. How a Spark Plug Works A spark plug sends an electrical signal sent from the ignition coil, creating a spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. This is what powers your engine and propels your vehicle forward. The electrodes on a spark plug are subjected to extreme conditions, and over time, they wear out. This deterioration is what leads to many of the symptoms previously described, such as decreased fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, poor acceleration, rough idling, and engine misfires or surges. At Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith, we understand the importance of proactive maintenance, and our team of experienced technicians is ready to help. If you suspect your Hyundai needs new plugs, don't wait until your vehicle's performance suffers. Reach out to Crain Hyundai of Fort Smith today and let's ensure your Hyundai continues to deliver the performance and efficiency you've come to expect.

Front view of a parked 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz with the headlights on. | Hyundai dealer in Fort Smith, AR | Crain Hyundai of fort Smith

3 Electrical Problems You Should Always Fix at Your Hyundai Dealer

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