my Skoda Octavia's headlights keep flickering, what should I check

Solution

1. Preparation

• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent electrical shock.

2. Inspect Headlight Bulbs

• Remove the headlight assembly (if necessary) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Check the bulbs for signs of damage or wear.
• Replace any faulty bulbs with OEM or equivalent parts.

3. Check Wiring and Connections

• Visual inspection of the wiring harness connected to the headlights.
• Look for any signs of corrosion, breaks, or loose connections.
• Repair or replace damaged wiring as necessary.

4. Test Battery and Alternator

• Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage; it should read around 12.6 volts when fully charged.
• Start the engine and check the voltage again; it should be between 13.7 to 14.7 volts indicating the alternator is charging correctly.
• If readings are outside this range, consider replacing the battery or alternator.

5. Inspect Headlight Relay

• Locate the headlight relay in the fuse box.
• Remove the relay and check its condition; replace if it shows signs of damage.
• Ensure that the relay is seated correctly in the socket.