Hi, I use a SYLVANIA 9004 SU lamp for my headlight. The lamp was gone to be used on just 9 months. I asked about the life of the lamp to sylvania. They let me know the life-span is up to 1 year. Did you guys know that? Even the lamp is usually used to less than 3 hours a day.
3 hours a day X 365 days = 1095 hours. what the Fxxx is that...


This is what I got from sylvania.

Some facts to share:

SilverStar lamps will last up to 1 year under normal driving conditions, with proper installation and application. Nine months is not unusual
and you may see similar performance if you select this item for
replacement.

SilverStar lamps are more sensitive to voltage spikes that may not cause
any operation harm to the vehicle itself.

There is a trade off on life for the light output. We offer many styles
of lamps to address the various market needs. Xtravision (XV) is a nice
option for those that want a solid compromise between standard lighting
and SilverStar lighting.

Regards,
Customer Service

 

The only bulbs I've seen consistently have issues with life are Sylvanias, even with taking utmost care to not touch the glass during installation (this is not just my car, but collective experience from the 4 or so shops I've worked at).

Take that however you wish, but I wouldn't rock Sylvanias in my car.

 

PIAA, expensive but they last. I'm going on 4 years with a set.

 

I change head light bulbs every 3 years weather they need it or not. I'm sorta **** that way. The popo around here get everyone with a burnt out head light.

 

whatever the heck the factory put in my car 13 years ago is what I want to replace mine with. they are still going strong.

 

My driver's side headlight lasted less than a month when I bought my Maxima new in 1996. The dealer had to replace the assembly since the bulb shattered. Both OEM bulbs are burning strong 12 years and counting!

 

Can't say the same for the fog light bulbs......