Headlamp lens damaged or not giving enough light
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Headlamp lens slightly defective”
- “Headlamp lens defective”
- “Headlamp light source defective”
What it is
Headlamp lenses can crack, become cloudy or let in water. Some cloudiness on older plastic lenses is common.
Why it matters
A damaged or very cloudy lens reduces how far the lamp shines and can scatter light into other drivers' eyes. A cracked lens can let water in and damage the lamp.
What to check when viewing a car
Look at the lenses for cracks, cloudiness or moisture inside. Cloudy lenses can often be restored; damaged units may need replacing.
Has the car you're looking at had this before?
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What the MOT categories mean
- Dangerous
- A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. The car fails and shouldn't be driven until it's repaired.
- Major
- It may affect the car's safety, put other road users at risk or harm the environment. The car fails and should be repaired straight away.
- Minor
- No significant effect on safety or the environment. The car passes, but it should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Advisory
- Something to keep an eye on that could need repairing in future. The car passes.
Related: lights and number plates
- Headlamp aim too high or too low
- Lamp not working (bulb out)
- Number plate lamp not working
- Number plate illegible or incorrect
- Headlamp main beam warning lamp not working
Buying a used car?
General information about this type of MOT defect, not advice about a particular car. How serious it is depends on the car; have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.