B0047 critical

Right Headlight Low Beam Circuit Malfunction

The B0047 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Right Headlight Low Beam Circuit Malfunction. This is a critical severity code.

My Garage →
Keep driving?
Short distances only
DIY difficulty
easy
Estimated cost
$15 - $400 (parts and labor)
Read Body Codes
BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro Scanner

Basic scanners skip body codes entirely. BlueDriver reads airbag, HVAC, lighting, and BCM codes through your phone.

Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate link -- we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Common Symptoms

  • Right low beam headlight out
  • Headlight failure warning on dashboard
  • Poor road illumination on right side
  • Vehicle appears to have only one headlight
  • Reduced nighttime driving visibility

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Burned out right low beam bulb Very High
  • Corroded headlight bulb connector High
  • Headlight relay failure Moderate
  • Wiring fault in right headlight circuit Low

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Check right low beam bulb for failure

  2. Inspect headlight connector for corrosion or burn marks

  3. Test power at headlight socket with lights on

  4. Swap relay with known good relay to test

  5. Check wiring continuity to right headlight

Frequently Asked Questions

Will police pull me over for a headlight out?

Yes. Driving with one headlight out is a common reason for traffic stops. Most states require both headlights to be functional between dusk and dawn.

Should I replace both headlight bulbs at the same time?

Yes, it is recommended. Bulbs dim with age, so a new bulb paired with an old one will produce uneven light. Both bulbs have similar remaining life if they were last replaced together.

Can I upgrade to LED bulbs in my halogen headlights?

LED retrofit bulbs are available, but they may not be legal in all states and can cause glare issues for oncoming drivers if the housing is not designed for LED light patterns.

Sources

This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.

Explore More

Was this helpful?

Share carcodefinder.com with a friend who needs to decode their check engine light.