Shedding light on headlamps

Q: I recently took my Jeep in for replacement of the driver’s side headlamp. I know that it’s a pain to replace, but $650 to replace the bulb seems to me to be outrageous! I asked if I could switch to LED technology instead and was told no. Is it true that LEDs are not an option? Should I move on to an independent mechanic?

A: High-intensity discharge (HID) lighting can be expensive to repair. Replace the xenon lamp first and, if it works, you’re done — almost. Replace both lamps and the color temperature will be the same. I know of no swap you can make for LEDs. Yeah, check around for an independent shop.

Q: My evening commute home this time of year is after dark. Nearly every evening I’ll encounter one or two vehicles without functioning taillights, although the headlights are on. With the various settings on the headlight switch these days, is it possible that auto makers have one that turns on headlights but not taillights? My only other theory is a malfunction, but I find it hard to believe there could be so many malfunctioning taillights out there.

A: There’s no malfunction, just pilot error. Many cars still use the headlights for daytime running lights. They do not activate the taillights. When the sun goes down, the running lights remain lit and some drivers don’t initially notice much difference.

Q: I rarely use my car (Lexus RX350) and it is parked for extended periods of time on a tree-lined street. My car sustained leaf stains over the whole body. I brought it to the car wash twice, but the leaf stains are still there. I tried removing the stains manually using vinegar, baking soda and soap. But this is a labor intensive job. Is there a simpler way of removing the stains? Should I bring my car to a detailing car shop, which can be costly?

A: The stains already might have penetrated into the clear coat. You may be able to remove them yourself, but be careful that you don’t go through the clear coat. I suggest you leave this job to a professional detailer. It’s cheaper than a paint job. And before next fall, get a car cover. Make sure it is one that breathes.

Bob Weber is a writer, mechanic and ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician. His writing has appeared in automotive trade publications, Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send automotive questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.