According to a 2018 test conducted by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), 80% of all vehicles on the road today come with headlights from the factory that are rated below “good”. Only 20% of all vehicles tested had headlight performance that would be considered comfortable or great to drive with.

For example, on the 2018 Honda Ridgeline it would cost you an additional $12,000 for the better trim level from the dealer that would equip your truck with headlights that rate “good”. If you don’t spend the money you’ll be stuck with the headlight option rated as “poor”…

Another example is on the 2018 Kia Soul if you don’t opt for the +$26,000 trim level from the dealer you’ll be stuck with the “poor” rated headlights. With the better trim level you get better headlights.

So, what options do you have?

1. Buy the most expensive trim level.
2. Buy headlight bulb upgrades.

If you’re made of money, go ahead and cough up the extra cash for the higher trim level and bask in the luxury of leather seats, Bose sound systems and the best headlight options. On the other hand, if you don’t want to shell out an extra $20K for the bells and whistles, you can get safer and better headlights for under $200.

Check out this review that teaches you what you need to know before buying upgraded LED bulbs: