Lighting manufacturer OSRAM is urging workshops to not only focus on headlight sales this winter, but all other bulbs that are safety critical.

With constant talk of headlight glare, discussion around headlights has increased over recent years. This does take focus away from the many other bulbs that need to be checked during the darker months. These include areas such as indicators, braking lights, reversing lights and more.

There can be between 15 and 20 bulbs on average on a vehicle, with the majority being safety critical that demonstrate a driver’s intentions on the road, whether that is indicating to turn, fog lamps to ensure they are seen in bad weather or hazard lights to alert other drivers to possible danger or a change in road conditions ahead.

Therefore, whatever the weather or season, workshops should offer a full bulb check during which they can check all the bulbs on a vehicle are functioning as they should and see if any need replacing.

Checking all bulbs is important

Lights, reflectors and electrics make up 13.3% of MOT failures. According to data revealed by the DVSA, in 2024, lights were the fourth most common reason for a vehicle failing its MOT, which includes all exterior lights, not just headlights. This demonstrates the importance of checking all of the bulbs in a vehicle.

“By offering a complete vehicle bulb check, workshops could potentially create a huge revenue source for themselves,” highlighted OSRAM Lighting Marketing Manager, Terri Clark. “The check should not take too long, and we would suggest looking at the indicator, fog, brake, tail and number plate bulbs, as well as the headlights. All of this should take 10 minutes maximum and could create a lot of new income.

“There are many drivers on the road that do not check their bulbs regularly, so offering to do this for them, and then potentially changing the ones that need replacing, is worth the time put into it, and creates a positive relationship with customers.

“While there is a massive focus on headlights in the industry, and there should be, as they are very important, there are other bulbs that should be regularly checked and worth keeping a stock of.”