TechnicianVision · Knowledge base
Back-To-Basics: Hidden Damage On Headlamp Assemblies
I-CAR · December 2, 2020
Summary
This article highlights the importance of inspecting headlamp assemblies for hidden internal and external damage following a collision, particularly on modern vehicles equipped with adaptive lighting systems. Because these systems rely on complex actuators, modules, and various vehicle sensors, physical or functional damage may exist even if there is no obvious external cracking or if diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are not present.
What to do on the job
Perform a thorough physical inspection of the headlamp housing and internal components, and conduct a functional diagnostic check of the adaptive lighting system using a scan tool.
How to use it
Use this document to justify the labor time required to perform functional testing and detailed inspections of headlamp assemblies on vehicles with adaptive lighting, even when there is no obvious external damage. It helps defend the necessity of diagnostic scans and functional checks by explaining that internal actuator or module damage may not always trigger a DTC.
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