Hi All, I bought a 2000 S40 last year and have replaced both headlamps 3 times already. Was there a recall or some kind of fix I can do so they will last longer than 4 months? So far, I've run the gammet in Sylvania, the latest being the H7 SU variety. Previous to these Silverstar Ultras I've done the 'better', and 'normal' bulbs.

Thanks for the help.

 

Not sure how you are installing them, but the bulbs have to be 100% sterile and clean. You cant handle the bulb with your bare hands. I take a tissue or paper towel and a bit of isopropyl alcohol to make sure the bulb surface is free from dirt, oil etc.. Even the oil from your fingertips is enough to cause a hot spot on the bulb and cause the element to fail. My bulbs last for years.

 

also what i did was to change both bulbs: if driver's side is out, change it as well as the passenger side.

 

Thanks for the tip, I am being careful not to touch the bulb, but am touching the outer ring. I'll try with the thick paper towels next time and see what difference that makes.

 

OK so it is Nov 16th and first thing out of the garage, the driver side headlight went out. I purchased the H7 again and replaced it Nov 16th. We'll see how long until the other one goes.
This time I was careful to use a regular paper towel (kitchen) doubled over. At no time did any part of the bulb touch my skin or the car headlamp fixture.

 

Make sure that the clip holds the bulb in there securely.If it moves the vibration will kill the filament in no time.Also check if you see any burnt marks on the electrical plug or wiring.If you have burned connectors it could spark there causing the bulb to flicker which you cant see most of the time only when the connection degrades to a point when the power gets interrupted to the bulb.Flickering also shortens the lifespan of the bulb greatly.I call it the invisible killer hehe.

 

Good tip. The clips are secure each time they are changed. I will take a look at the wiring though. it's been recommended to replace some other wires, so I may as well check these ones too.

 

My '98 V70 had a similar issue with bulbs going out. The connector would get oxidized and pitted from arcing and cause the bulb to go out. If I recall, Volvo had a recall but I don't know if it applied to the S/V40.
Stan

 

Well, after running almost 6 months with the right low-beam not even on (perhaps a total of 30 minutes per week - this is with daily driving), took it to the shop. The culprit seems to be the central connector at the fuse panel under the dash. This is extremely pricey, but if it takes care of the wiring issues of the past, it'll be worth it.
Prior to taking it into the shop, been looking at switching out with HIDs too, but that will have to wait a bit longer. I'll have to brush up on the posts to see what "extra" things need to be purchased.