Three headlight bulb < 4 years?

Life of a headlight bulb varies from bulb to bulb. It seems that the brighter ones tend to have a shorter life in hours. You might try a different brand of bulb since the Sylvania's don't seem to be holding up for you.

Ron

 

If you use the so called brighter whiter bulbs there life is very much shorter than a standard bulb, because the filament runs at a higher temperature to give out the extra light.

Do you use the lights during the day as DRL's if so this will also shorten there life, as will rough roads.

If you divide your total millage when using your lights as DRL's by about 25 this will give an approximation of how many hours the lights have been on.

 

I have used that same bulb in another vehicle. They did burn bright, but did not last a long time. You might consider trying the OEM bulbs.

You can order them here.

2008 TOYOTA PRIUS Parts - Champion ToyotaWorld

Ron

 

You are not the only one having this problem. I've noticed over the past 2 or 3 years that I am going through
bulbs much more rapidly. Same symptoms you describe. I wonder if there is another component in the
electrical system which is breaking down with age. Or if it is just the cheap bulbs I've been using.

Like you I'm becoming pretty adept at replacing bulbs :-P

 

Have you tried the OEM ones? I posted a link for them in this string.

Ron

 

I had my 08 Prius for 4 1/2 years and never had a light bulb burn out. Ditto what the other people are saying, use an OEM bulb.

No need for any special web link to buy these, just stop by your local dealer.

 

Thanks, I think I will try the OEM bulbs next time.

 

My OEM bulbs lasted upto the mid 50,000 miles stage! I often had to work nights in the taxi job and also run headlights when in fog or rain (it rains a lot here). I was amazed at how long the bulbs lasted.

Going back to those brighter bulbs you refered to. What was the quote from Blade Runner? "A light that burns twice as bright, burns half as long".