Flickering Headlights When Braking? What To Do

The flickering headlight can be worrisome as it leaves you confused and scattered. It is important to identify the underlying reason for flickering headlights when braking in order to ensure your safety and that of other drivers on the road. By understanding the causes of headlights flickering when braking, drivers can take the necessary precautions to address the issue and reduce the risk of a malfunction or electrical short occurring.

This act not only can be visually distracting, but it can also be indicative of a larger issue. In this article, you will learn why your headlights are flickering when you hit the brake, what you can do and answers to related questions you may have about the issue.

Why do my headlights flicker when I brake?

The cause of flickering headlights is numerous with or without braking. The engine creates heat and the brakes create aGR. The two react together and create a headlight flickering effect. When you brake, your headlights can flicker for one reason or the other. Briefly, we will look at some of the factors that could cause a headlight to flicker when braking.

1. Loose connector:

If your headlights flicker on randomly then it’s an indication of a connector issue and if it goes off and on at intervals, you may want to check the wiring for a wiring problem.

2. Faulty headlight switch: 

Headlights can flicker when you brake if you have a failing headlamp switch, in most of the cases, This fault could make your headlights go dimmer. you might be able to resolve this by having to buy a new headlamp switch. Or, it may require a more serious remedy by diving into your car’s computerized or electrical system.

3. Inadequate alternator output:

This is the main cause why your headlight will flicker when you’re decelerating or hitting the brake. The alternator supplies power to the battery and other electrical systems of your vehicle. Once the output supplied is not enough, the battery runs out and thus puts it under a heavy load which it will not be able to carry.

Can a bad battery cause headlights to flicker?

One of the most common causes of headlight flickering is a failing battery. Your headlights rely on power from the alternator and then the battery to function adequately. If the battery is dying, flickering, or dimming headlights when you hit the brake may be the result. In that case, you’ll want to get your battery inspected by a qualified technician. If your battery is the cause for your headlights to flicker, it may be right about time to purchase a new one. 

Should I be worried when my headlights flicker when I brake?

Headlight flickering is a noticeable and serious problem that needs fixing right away. You shouldn’t be on the road at night or evenings with a flickering headlight as it poses a threat to your life and that of other drivers using the road.

The flickering headlight can cause blindness to other vehicle drivers hence, they won’t be able to see you, and likewise, you won’t be able to see them.

However, there are many causes of headlights flickering when you’re braking,  if your car battery or alternator is not to be blamed, it’s best not to ignore flickering or dimming headlights no matter the cause. 

How do I stop my headlights from flickering?

There are easy ways and precautions to uphold in order to stop your vehicle from flickering when braking. These are:

• Replacing faulty bulbs simultaneously
• Fixing connector issues when due
• Constant inspection of your electrical system
• Using only the correct parts for any electrical system of the vehicle

Conclusion

The ability to safely navigate roads at night is dependent on having a functioning headlights that do not flicker when you brake. When headlights flicker or dim when braking, it can be very alarming for drivers and can be very dangerous if not detected and addressed promptly. Fortunately for you, there are some relatively simple ways to identify and remedy this issue as described in this article.