Low beams are very dim?

2013 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
112,000 MILES • 3.3L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
AWD76
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
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.
Feb 10, 2024 at 5:22 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 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.
Feb 10, 2024 at 5:19 PM
Avatar
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?
Feb 11, 2024 at 5:57 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 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.
Feb 11, 2024 at 11:10 AM
Avatar
AWD76
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I changed out the smart junction box with no noticeable difference in headlight brightness. Do you have any other suggestions?
Oct 31, 2025 at 7:34 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 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.

Nov 4, 2025 at 12:12 PM