Low beams are very dim?

Tiny
AWD76
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
  • 3.3L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 112,000 MILES
Low beams are very dim, almost to the point where you can't tell they are on. Bulbs have been replaced with no change. The fog lamps are brighter than the headlights. Lenses of headlamps don't appear to have any oxidation or yellowing.
Saturday, February 10th, 2024 AT 5:22 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
So, this happens when the IPC inside the fuse panel under the dash on the driver's side goes out, here is how to replace it and I have included the headlight wiring diagrams so you can see how the system works. Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response to the problem so we can see what's going on.
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Saturday, February 10th, 2024 AT 5:19 PM
Tiny
AWD76
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
So, the IPS, that is integrated into the smart junction box has failed, and I will need to change out the entire SJB. What does IPS stand for?
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Sunday, February 11th, 2024 AT 5:57 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
The term IPS stands for "integrated power supply". You can check the voltage at the headlights to see if it has 12 volts at the grey wire at the headlight wiring connector to confirm the failure.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
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Sunday, February 11th, 2024 AT 11:10 AM
Tiny
AWD76
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I changed out the smart junction box with no noticeable difference in headlight brightness. Do you have any other suggestions?
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Friday, October 31st, 2025 AT 7:34 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Yes, sorry, bad I should have suggested to check the headlight system ground, also are the brights dim as well? Please go over this guide as well

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/one-headlight-is-dim-or-dull

This guide can help you check the grounds, make sure the test light lead is on the positive side of the battery.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Please go over these guides and get back to us.

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Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 AT 12:12 PM

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