2017 G90 5.0L Driver's Side Headlight Flickering and Out

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:37 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L Ultimate

Hey everyone,

I'm having a frustrating issue with the driver's side headlight on my 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L Ultimate. About a week ago, it started flickering intermittently, especially over bumps. Now, it's completely out. The passenger side works fine, and the daytime running lights (DRLs) on the driver's side also seem to be acting up, sometimes not coming on at all.

I'm pretty sure these are LED headlights, so I don't think it's just a bulb replacement. Could it be the ballast or an LED driver module? I've heard these can be expensive to replace.

Has anyone else with a G90 experienced this? What was the fix? Trying to get an idea of what I'm looking at before I take it in.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Flickering and complete failure of an LED headlight, especially when accompanied by DRL issues, on a 2017 Genesis G90 5.0L Ultimate points to a problem with the LED lighting system's electrical components.

Common Causes for LED Headlight Failure:

  1. LED Driver Module (Ballast) Failure: Unlike traditional bulbs, LED headlights use a driver module (often referred to as a ballast in HID systems) to regulate power. These modules can fail due to age, heat, or internal component issues, leading to flickering or complete light failure.
  2. Internal LED Assembly Failure: Less common, but the LED array itself within the headlight housing can fail.
  3. Wiring/Connector Issues: A loose, corroded, or damaged wire or connector leading to the headlight assembly or driver module can cause intermittent or complete failure. Moisture intrusion is a common culprit here.
  4. Body Control Module (BCM) Issue: While rare for a single headlight, a BCM fault could theoretically affect lighting circuits, though it usually presents with broader electrical issues.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the headlight assembly and surrounding wiring for any signs of physical damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Check for moisture inside the headlight housing.
  2. Check Fuses: While unlikely for a single LED headlight (as they're often on shared circuits), verify that all relevant fuses in both the under-hood and cabin fuse boxes are intact.

OBD Codes to Look For:

A failing LED headlight system can trigger B-codes (Body) related to lighting circuits, such as:

  • B1607: Headlamp Low Beam Circuit Malfunction.
  • B1608: Headlamp High Beam Circuit Malfunction.
  • B1611: DRL Circuit Malfunction.
  • Specific manufacturer codes for LED driver module faults might also be present.

When to See a Shop:

Diagnosing and repairing LED headlight systems can be complex due to their integrated design and specialized components. If a simple visual inspection doesn't reveal an obvious issue, it's highly recommended to take your G90 to a Genesis dealership. They have the specific diagnostic tools to test the LED driver module, the LED assembly itself, and the associated wiring. Replacement of these components often requires removing the front bumper and proper re-aiming of the headlights, which is best left to trained technicians.