Should a broken car headlight mounting tab be repaired or replaced?
2 Answers
If the headlight mounting tab is broken in the middle, it can be repaired by welding. If the headlight mounting tab is broken from the base, then the entire headlight assembly must be replaced. Before performing a welding repair, the headlight bulb must be removed. Here are the relevant details: Wire spring fixation: Most bulbs are secured by a wire spring. Gently wiggle the wire spring left and right to release it, then pull out the socket and remove the bulb. If the mounting tab is broken but the internal glass or components are undamaged and the lighting function is unaffected, the tab can be repaired and fixed. Plastic parts can be welded back together, and most repair shops can handle this. If the internal components are damaged, repairs may not restore the headlight to its original condition. Given the critical safety role of headlights, repaired units may not provide reliable performance. Unrepairable breakage: If the broken tab cannot be repaired or if it affects the internal lighting function, consider replacing the headlight entirely. Unless it's a high-end vehicle with headlights costing thousands or tens of thousands, repair may not be cost-effective. Otherwise, purchasing a new headlight is both economical and safer.
I once had a broken mounting foot on my old car. While using strong glue for repair could temporarily fix it, the plastic material was brittle and prone to breaking again due to road bumps, causing the headlight to shake and affect the beam angle. Driving at night with poor visibility was very dangerous. Replacing the entire headlight is more reliable. Although it costs a few hundred dollars at once, it can last for several years and prevent accidents. By the way, the headlight's sealing is also crucial—repairs might lead to water leakage. If safety is the priority, I suggest going to a professional shop for a new replacement instead of risking it to save money.
