Headlights Turning Off

[av8rb]

I have a 2017 model Ecoboost (auto transmission). Of late, the headlights have started turning off after a minute or two. This is irrespective of whether the switch is set to auto or manual lights. Also, the right headlight goes off first followed by the left one after about 20 to 30 seconds. I have replaced the fuses to no avail. I swapped the relays for the left and right headlights expecting the sequence of lights turning off to change (expecting left to go off first followed by right) but it didn't which makes me think that the problem may not be with the relays. Some Googling and suggestions by local auto mechanics pointed to ballast issues but it's a weird coincidence that both the ballasts have developed faults at the same time.

I took the car to Ford Servicing and they couldn't find the problem either! They said that the computer hinted at low battery voltage but that has never been an issue. I have been able to start the car without issues even after a gap of 10 days. Also, I don't think that the battery voltage would be an issue when the headlights go off even with the engine running.

Forgot to mention that the headlights are HID. And the issue is with both settings - high beam and low beam

I am not an auto electric mechanic so my reasoning above could be off. That's why I am reaching out here hoping to find a solution. Thanks in advance.

P.S.: In case it matters, I am in Melbourne, Australia.

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[Adam the Lighting Guy]

I have seen this happen before and if your 100% sure you have HID's, it's a sign of old , and believe it or not,,, worn out bulbs. The ballasts always start up at a higher voltage and then back down after they "warm up".

The metal halide lamps are an Arc lamp. When the lamps get old, the gap between the electrodes inside the lamp increases and that requires more power to sustain the arc. That's why after 20-30 seconds of operation the the ballasts cut back the power, they shut off.

Replace the lamps first. Use oem or equivalent and be sure the wattage lamp you choose is the same as what is currently in there.

 

[av8rb]

Thanks for the explanation, mate. That makes sense. Appreciate your help.

 

[Adam the Lighting Guy]

Thanks for the explanation, mate. That makes sense. Appreciate your help.

I only hope that's the answer to your issue. Let us know what happens please.

 

[av8rb]

Thanks for the help, Adam. You were correct indeed! I had the HIDs and ballasts replaced and, now both the headlights work. Thanks mate.

 

[Adam the Lighting Guy]

Thanks for the help, Adam. You were correct indeed! I had the HIDs and ballasts replaced and, now both the headlights work. Thanks mate.

I'm glad that it was a simple fix !

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