Noob headlight & car questions.

[KeithTalent]

I have a couple of quick questions about my vehicle.

I drive (barely) a black 1997 Nissan Maxima with just over 100K KMs on the odometer. I really only drive it maybe once or twice every couple of months, but the last time I took it out I noticed both of my front headlights were no longer working. The running lights work fine, but when I turn them on they do not actually go on. I thought maybe it was a battery issue, but I have no idea and am not sure how to test that.

1. If I try to replace the headlights, do I need to get the whole thing like this or can I just buy the bulbs I think like this?

2. Is this something I can do on my own or do I need to take it in to a professional?

3. The battery meter thingy in my car says the battery is fine, but is there a way to confirm that, or are those things pretty reliable?

Thanks all! :beer:

KT

 

[Zenmervolt]

You can just buy bulbs. The owner's manual should list the specific type as well as illustrate how to change them. When changing the bulbs, do not touch the glass portion of the bulb with your hand. The oils in your skin will get on the bulb and cause a hot spot, which will make the bulb burn out quickly.

This is very easy to do on your own.

If the car starts and runs fine, the problem is not the battery. It takes a lot more juice to start the car than it does to run the headlights.

ZV

 

[KeithTalent]

Thanks Zen! I don't actually have the owner's manual, but I have some other book someone told me to pick up (just have to find it) that I think has that information.

Glad it's only the bulbs, replacing the other part sounds like a pain in the butt.

KT