Do You Need to Replace Both Fog Lights if One Burns Out?

If one of your LED fog lights just gave out, you might be wondering if it’s okay to replace only that bulb or if it’s better to change both. Swapping out a single bulb sounds like a quick and budget-friendly fix, but that’s not always the best decision. In some cases, replacing both lights can save you time and help maintain a consistent look and performance.

Let’s break down when it makes sense to replace just one LED headlamp for your car and when changing both might be the more practical way to go.

The short answer: it depends

You can change just one fog light if your bulbs are fairly new and you have the exact model on hand. But if your current lights are older, replacing both at the same time helps you avoid mismatched brightness or a second burnout shortly after.

You can replace just one bulb if:

• Your current LED fog lights are less than a year old
• The other fog light still shines just as brightly and hasn’t changed colour
• You’re using the same brand and model for the replacement
• You’re working with a limited budget and need a temporary solution

That said, it’s better to replace both fog lights if:

• Your bulbs are over two years old
• You can’t find the exact replacement model
• The working bulb is starting to fade or shift in colour
• Buying a two-pack costs only slightly more than a single bulb
• You want balanced brightness and colour across both lights

Figure out why the fog light failed

LED fog lights are built for long-term use, but they’re not immune to issues. If one burns out earlier than expected, it helps to understand what went wrong before buying a new LED headlamp for your car. That way, you can avoid similar problems in the future.

Some common causes of early LED fog light failure include:

• Overheating and poor airflow
• Electrical problems like unstable voltage
• Vibration damage from rough roads
• Moisture entering the housing

Low-cost bulbs may also fail early or cause further electrical issues. To avoid that risk, stick with trusted, well-reviewed LED products.

Find the right replacement at HIDS-Direct

We make it easy to find reliable LED fog lights that fit your vehicle and last longer. Our bulbs are built to perform — and when you order from HIDS-Direct, you get great service, too.

• Track UK orders starting from just £1.90
• International shipping from £8.50
• 30-day no-hassle returns
• Earn discounts and rewards on your next purchase

Whether you're replacing one LED headlamp for your car or upgrading both, we’ll help you do it the right way. Browse our LED lighting selection today and keep your car looking sharp and safely lit on every drive.