2022 Tucson SEL: Headlights flickering and sometimes one goes out completely

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Emily N. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:01 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL

Hi everyone,

I'm having a weird issue with the headlights on my 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL. Lately, I've noticed them flickering, especially the driver's side. Sometimes, the driver's side headlight will just go out completely for a few seconds, then come back on. It's really unsettling, especially at night.

I have the LED headlights, so I'm not sure if it's just a bulb I can replace. Could it be a loose connection, or something more serious with the electrical system? I haven't hit any major potholes or anything.

Any thoughts on what might be causing this and what I should check first?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Flickering or intermittently failing headlights on your 2022 Hyundai Tucson SEL, especially with LED units, can be a safety concern and points to an electrical issue. Unlike traditional halogen bulbs, LED headlights often come as sealed units or modules, making simple 'bulb replacement' less common.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what you can investigate:

  1. Loose Connection: This is a common culprit. Check the electrical connector at the back of the headlight assembly. Ensure it's securely seated and that there's no visible corrosion or damage to the pins. A loose ground wire can also cause intermittent issues.
  2. Faulty LED Headlight Module/Unit: If your Tucson has integrated LED headlights, the issue might be with the LED driver module or the entire headlight assembly itself. These modules regulate power to the LEDs, and if they fail, they can cause flickering or complete outages.
  3. Wiring Harness Damage: Inspect the wiring harness leading to the affected headlight for any signs of fraying, pinching, or rodent damage. Even a small break in the insulation can cause intermittent contact.
  4. Headlight Relay: While less common with modern LED systems that are often controlled by the Body Control Module (BCM), some systems still use relays. If there's a dedicated headlight relay, a faulty one could cause intermittent power delivery. Consult your owner's manual for fuse/relay box diagrams.
  5. Body Control Module (BCM) Issue: The BCM controls many electrical functions, including lighting. A fault within the BCM could send incorrect or intermittent signals to the headlight, though this is usually accompanied by other electrical anomalies.

When to See a Shop: If checking the connections doesn't resolve the flickering, or if the issue persists, it's highly recommended to take your Tucson to a Hyundai dealership or a reputable automotive electrical specialist. They have the necessary diagnostic tools to:

  • Read any specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the lighting system.
  • Perform voltage drop tests to identify power delivery issues.
  • Accurately diagnose whether the problem lies with the LED headlight module, wiring, or a control module like the BCM. Replacing an entire LED headlight assembly can be costly, so proper diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary repairs.