October 2020

Right: VALUEFIT LED work lamp “ As the nights slowly start to draw in,” said Terri Clark, Lighting Marketing Manager for OSRAM, “good quality lighting becomes even more essential, and with new technology bringing about new opportunities for both the garage and motorist, it’s important that the latest developments are embraced to keep vehicles safe and roadworthy.” “Checking all of a vehicle’s lights thoroughly is a fast and simple exercise and so should be applied to every vehicle going through the workshop for servicing, especially as faulty bulbs are one of the most common reasons for MOT failure. “Not only are faulty bulbs a potential danger for the driver, their passengers and other road users – particularly heading into winter with reduced light and more challenging road conditions – if a bulb is blown or not working properly, the vehicle becomes unroadworthy and customers could be falling foul of the law.“ There are a few best practice tips for maintaining and replacing bulbs said Terri: “Garages should always look to change bulbs together, even if only one has blown, as it is not only a safer and more practicable option, but it presents a profitable opportunity to upsell. “Most importantly, both headlights are subject to the same stresses, so they will both be deteriorating together. Replacing just one failed bulb can result in an unbalanced or unpredictable headlight beam that can cause serious hazards for the driver and other road users. “A vehicle is designed so that it works best when both headlights are functioning equally. Only then will the driver get the full advantage of the combined headlight beam on the road ahead.” Periodic checking of all lights on a vehicle should also be encouraged according to Terri, including headlights, stop, tail and reversing lights: “OSRAM testing shows that a standard halogen bulb loses 30 per cent of its brightness after 500 hours of use, and therefore it makes sense to be proactive when it comes to checking that all lighting is functioning as it should be. “With data suggesting that the vehicle car parc is ageing as a result of more people opting to hold on to their vehicles rather than investing in a shiny new model, it is essential that lights are regularly checked and replaced.” 2020 vision For these older vehicles in particular, OSRAM recommends a lighting upgrade. “In many cases,” explained Terri, there are ‘plug and play’ solutions for these vehicles that can effectively see them upgraded to a better performing halogen or HID bulb, offering increased quality light output and longevity, or even to an LED bulb alternative which further lifts performance. “It’s common knowledge and well accepted that a brighter and whiter light output more closely resembling daylight effectively reduces fatigue and assists vision on the road, keeping motorists and other members of the public safe.” For motorists living in more rural and regional areas, such as country lanes where roads are often unlit, upgraded lighting is even more beneficial. “This means it is important that garages are proactive in these remote areas,” said Terri, “and offer motorists lighting upgrade options where possible.” Terri added: “When offered a lighting upgrade and the associated safety benefits are explained, customers are likely to go for the upgrade, according to OSRAM data.” Lead the way LED lights are still a cause of concern for some, and some mechanics are still wary which is why Philips Automotive Lighting has produced ‘Lead The Way’, a new series of 42 AFTERMARKET OCTOBER 2020 LIGHTING www.aftermarketonline.net All the latest on lighting, from headlights to work lamps that will be handy in the garage SHINE A LIGHT