Headlight bezels are automotive accessories designed to hold a car's headlight assembly in place. A car's headlamp assembly basically comprises of the wire harness, socket, bulb, reflector and lens. The headlight bezel is the trim that holds the lens in position. The accessory may take varying shapes invariably defined by the shape of the headlight lenses which is defined by a vehicle's architecture. Therefore, the shape and type of this item varies depending on whether it is designed for a truck, suv, van, or jeep. In any case, this detail is usually made custom fit for particular car models. It can be circular, rectangular, rhomboid, or almond-like. Due to its positioning, the item also adds to the cosmetic appearance of a car.
Although headlight bezels made of aluminum or chrome don’t crack easily, they may lose their sheen over time. To maintain their appearance over a long period of time, aluminum and chrome headlight bezels are usually coated. However, different types of Coating are designed to achieve specific results. Types of Coating include colored coating, anodizing and, electroplating.
The position of this detail in a car's architecture means it can get exposed to harsh elements, therefore they are made of durable materials that can withstand duress. Materials used in the manufacturing of headlight bezels include plastic, aluminum, chromium, carbon fiber and stainless steel. Headlight bezels made of aluminum or chrome don’t crack easily, although they may lose their luster over time. The nature of plastic means it doesn’t corrode, albeit it could crack over time due to excessive use. The best headlight bezels are an integration of these materials to provide resistance against corrosion or cracking.
Because materials used in the manufacture of bezels are subject to depreciation just like the other car components, they may at some point require replacement. When purchasing new bezels, factors to consider include durability, warranty, fit, form and function.