Headlights burning out every 2-3 months approx.

[M3Nick]

Back in March, my passenger side bulb blew for the first time... I figured it was about time anyway, so I bought a set of two new H7 halogen bulbs to replace my current set (Sylvania 'HID' white) I chose to get two because I didn't want to have two different color headlights. I put both in, done and done.

About a month later my driver side blew again ... I didn't think much of it, and I replaced it again with a matching bulb. But after this I started using my headlight switch myself instead of the auto feature.

I'm not too concerned right now because I'm just going to stick a set of HIDs in and bypass the stock headlight electrical system, and do the 'fogs as DRL' mod.

Today, I noticed my passenger side bulb, blown again! There is definitely some electrical issue. I'm wondering if anybody has seen or have experienced this behavior before on their 3?

[Noisy Crow]

When you change the bulb, do you take care not to touch the glass? Contamination from skin oil supposedly affects bulb life....

[M3Nick]

Yeah - I've always ensured to use either a paper towel or a clean glove when inserting the new bulbs.

[KenYork]

Sylvania 'HID' white

I assume they're like NightHawks or Silverstars, as brand name aftermarket. I've found OEM bulbs longer than those fancy halogens.

[06Touring3]

i had the same problem with the regular silverstars (not the Ultra's)

I switched to the Ultras and haven't had a proble in about 5 months now.

But i thnk it's random because my first set of original Silverstars lasted a year or so

[2005mazda3]

i found that aftermarket light bulbs burn out easly. just use the stock one. i have my m3 for 3 yrs now i haven't change my headlight bulbs. :)

[mazda lover]

i found that aftermarket light bulbs burn out easly. just use the stock one. i have my m3 for 3 yrs now i haven't change my headlight bulbs. :)


same here, after 3 and half years same stock blubs, only have changed the licence plate bulb and that was 2 weeks ago.
2005 GT GFX AUTO

[mazdathree]

same here, after 3 and half years same stock blubs, only have changed the licence plate bulb and that was 2 weeks ago.
2005 GT GFX AUTO

+1

Have had my 3 for 2 yrs now and no probs with the stock halogen bulbs....just the rear license plate bulb is what I had to replace.....

[M3Nick]

i had the same problem with the regular silverstars (not the Ultra's)

Yeah, I guess this is the problem then :)

Thanks!

P.S. HIDs on their way, yaaaaaaaay!

[Ron_M3 sport]

Yeah, I guess this is the problem then :)


I've had this problem too.
The stock driver's side headlight went out and I replaced it with Silverstars and about 6 months later the driver's side went out again.
It could also be coincidental but I realize that when I a Mazda3 with one head light the driver's side is usually shot.

[M3Nick]

My passenger went twice and driver once...

I have HIDs now, so hopefully they last a lot longer lol :)