headlights are not bright?

2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
67,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SSHAD10
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
The headlights are not very bright, have tried replacing them with another factory used pair but not any better. Also, tried buying replacement bulbs at WalMart but didn't help either. Is this a known problem with this model of car?
Jan 23, 2011 at 4:56 PM
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KASEKENNY
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,907 POSTS
This is a voltage issue and not a bulb issue. So let's do two things. First test the battery using this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Then test the alternator using this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Then we need to inspect the wiring for the battery including the terminals and make sure they are clean and tight.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Then we need to make sure we test the grounds for the headlamps if all else checks out but I suspect we will find something with this. Let us know what you find. Thanks
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Jan 17, 2021 at 11:50 AM
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