That Dime in Your Pocket Might Be Worth 10 Cents, or a Whole Lot More

Odds are you’re like most Americans who have old change somewhere around the house: possibly in a piggy bank, a jar in the kitchen, loosely stashed away in a drawer, or somewhere else. It’s possible those old coins are only worth exactly what you would expect them to be worth, but there’s also a chance you could be unknowingly in possession of something much more valuable.

A few rare dates, mintmarks, printing mistakes, and other oddities can turn a regular dime into a serious collector’s item, or something worth selling to the right bidder. Ted Ancher, the Director of Numismatics at APMEX Inc., a precious metals dealer, says a rare coin’s value usually comes down to a few key traits.

Learn what collectors look for, how to check a dime’s value, and what you should do before selling or storing your coin.

Why Some Dimes Are Worth Millions

It boils down to rarity. Dimes, like all coins or collectables, are most valuable due to low mintages, low survival rates, and high demand, according to Ancher.

Some coins become valuable due to few being made, while others gain value because they are in a collectible condition. Heavily worn coins may still carry a premium if it is rare, but if it’s in an indistinguishable quality its value will be limited. Extremely valuable coins will meet both criterium.

“Survival rates are key, as mintages could be high but for one reason or another a large amount of the mintage disappeared,” says Ancher. “Most notably Morgan Silver Dollars and Pre-33 U.S. Gold are classic examples of series where certain dates and mintmarks have high mintages, but low survival rates due to legislation that prompted massive government melting.”

Rare Dimes Worth A Fortune

The 1894-S Barber Dime sits near the top of American coin collecting. Heritage Auctions notes that this rarity has brought seven-figure prices, with private sales reported above $2 million. Stack’s Bowers describes the coin as one of the great legends of later U.S. coinage.

Mercury Dimes also attract strong collector interest. Ancher points to the 1916-D as the most famous key date in that series.

“This has the lowest mintage of the series at 264,000 coins,” says Ancher. “In extremely worn condition, this coin retails for between $800-$1500.”

The 1921 and 1921-D Mercury Dimes also count as key dates, according to Ancher. Collectors should also know the 1942/1 Mercury Dime, an overdate error where the “2” appears over a “1.” Ancher says the detail shows with the naked eye, which helps explain its popularity.

Roosevelt Dimes usually don’t reach the same level as older key dates, but proof errors can still bring strong money. Some valuable examples lack the expected “S” mintmark from the San Francisco Mint. PCGS describes the 1968 No S Roosevelt Dime as the first proof coin accidentally struck without that mintmark.

How To Check The Value Of A Dime

Check your dime’s date and mintmark. Then, examine the coin’s conditions for defects or wear and tear. Other resources like publicly available auction records, and dealer or collector websites, can help determine your item’s worth.

“The easiest way to check to see if your dime is valuable is to do a quick search online and see what that year, mintmark, and condition are bringing in the marketplace,” says Ancher.

If you think your coin might be of value, look for offers. Local coin or pawn shops might offer a quick appraisal or bid, but for a potentially high-value coin seek professional grading to confirm authenticity and condition.

What To Do With Valuable Dimes

While coins are made of durable metals, they still need to be handled with care. Avoid rubbing the coin’s surface, and keep it away from moisture.

“If you have a potentially rare coin, do NOT clean it.” says Ancher. “Collectors and dealers alike will pay strong money for originality. Once you clean a coin, depending on how much and how badly the coin is cleaned, the value is greatly reduced.”

Other Rare Coins To Look Out For

Dimes are not the only U.S. coins with high value. Certain silver quarters, half dollars, Morgan Silver Dollars, Pre-1933 U.S. Gold coins, and Lincoln Cents can be valuable. Like with dimes, these will depend on date, mintmark, condition, variety, etc.

Silver content also matters. The U.S. Mint’s current coin specifications show modern circulating dimes use a clad composition, while older circulating issues from 1964 and earlier contained silver.

FAQ

Where are rare coins most commonly found?

They are most common at coin shops, shows, auctions, and online marketplaces. However, you can get lucky at estate sales, garage sales, looking through old boxes in your attic, etc.

Should I clean a rare coin before selling it?

Absolutely NOT. “Cleaning a coin greatly reduces its value,” Ancher says. “Collectors enjoy originality and will often pay a premium for it.”

About the Expert

Ted Ancher is the Director of Numismatics at APMEX, Inc. He has more than 15 years of experience with APMEX and oversees a team of numismatics professionals who handle U.S. coins ranging from Half Cents to Pre-1933 Gold.

Sources

United States Mint, “Coin Specifications”

PCGS CoinFacts, “Top 100 coins”

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How Testing an Electric Grill Completely Changed My Perspective

My partner and I love grilling, so much so that even when we go camping or take an extended road trip, we often bring along our propane travel grill. Over the years and miles, we’ve also become adept at cooking in less-than-ideal conditions, from rain and snow to mosquitoes and heat waves — and the reward from it all has been enjoying many a memorable meal.

But this summer, we’ve switched it up a little after having the opportunity to test out an electric grill. At first, it was hard to conceive of parting with our propane ways. But it didn’t take long before we were hooked. Electric grills are simple to use, both in the kitchen and on the deck, plus come with health and air quality benefits.

Ahead, I’m sharing everything I learned, for better and worse, after ditching my gas grill for electric — and why I’ll never look back. Well… almost never.

Why an Electric Grill?

Honestly, until recently, I thought electric grills went out of style 20 years ago, with the George Foreman apartment grill. That one was more of a glorified sandwich press, and the few times I’d seen someone use it, it smoked up the whole kitchen.

But I often write about (and therefore do a lot of research on) the health and environmental downsides of cooking with gas and propane appliances. So, when someone suggested I test out a modern, quality electric grill, I was intrigued.

My partner, not so much. He grumbled a bit. But of course, being the kind soul that he is, he also humored me. And by the time he seared his first ribeye, he was a convert.

Now, I realize some people reading this are rolling their eyes. In certain circles, there’s a stigma about not cooking on an open-flame grill. I’ve heard arguments ranging from reduced flavor to reduced manhood, but I think it mainly comes down to this: people are creatures of habit. And, personally, I think it’s healthy to challenge our habits once in a while, to switch things up and step out of our comfort zones — and in the case of electric grills, that’s not just a metaphor.

Health and Environmental Benefits of Electric Grills

According to the National Cancer Institute, grilling meat introduces potential carcinogens in three ways. The first two are cooking it at high temperatures and eating charred crusts (I know, the whole joy of it), and those can theoretically be avoided on any type of grill. But the smoke that coats grilled meat, created by fats dripping onto hot coals or flames, is also harmful and can even alter your DNA in unhealthy ways. Helping to avoid that is where electric grills shine.

Burning fossil fuels, including natural gas, propane and charcoal, also creates a host of environmental and health problems. Toxic particulates and gases aggravate asthma and can cause other health issues. They also add to local pollution and global greenhouse gas emissions. One little grill might not seem like a lot, but it all adds up to grilling being a major source of air pollution worldwide.

Great, but what about the taste?

This is where everyone is bound to feel differently. Some people swear by the flavor that charcoal adds to food, others by the flame-broiling that gas grills deliver. Some can’t tell the difference at all. That’s me. I don’t notice much of a change, but then again, I’m usually grilling veggie burgers. However, my partner, the consummate carnivore, does notice a difference. He slightly prefers the taste of meat prepared on the propane grill, but not enough to stick with it.

It’s Not Just For Meat-Eaters

We also cook a ton of veggies around our house, and the electric grill has excelled with that. It allows us to prepare everything from eggplant to asparagus without the calories of added oil.

The Adventures of Cooking on an Electric Grill

Just kidding. There’s no challenge to it at all. The grilling surface maintains a consistent temperature and even heat distribution, which means it’s easy to reproduce the same results, meal after meal.

Also, there are no surprise flare-ups to deal with — so no more staring at the grill, hoping the meat doesn’t catch on fire. All drippings end up in a water pan below the cooking grate, which greatly reduces the smoke. That makes the meat healthier, plus allows you to use it indoors.

That water pan is also removable, which makes it easy to clean. Ours also has a PFOA-free nonstick grate, which is quick to wipe clean and dishwasher safe, along with the lid. Even cooking marinated food doesn’t make a mess, because the drops just fall into the water pan, versus sticking to the innards of the grill.

What about the weather?

Our grill is UL-rated for indoor and outdoor use. So, when it’s nasty outside, we can just bring it inside to cook. But when we don’t feel like lugging it indoors, it also performs well in the elements. In fact, it cooks faster than our gas grill in frigid weather, because very little cold air can get through the bottom.

The Learning Curve

For our first meal attempt, we were a little worried that we’d it mess up, so we did something out of character — we read the directions. Those said to preheat for eight minutes, plus gave a cooking guide for what temperature to set the grill at for various meats. We followed those suggestions, and voilà, it performed as advertised. Of course, there’s always room to home our technique, but for the most part, it cooks at the same speed as a gas grill, just more consistently.

The Model We Chose

We have a Kenyon G2 model, which is designed and produced in the U.S. Since I’ve already gone through all of the things we love about it, I’m just going to offer a quick nit-pick critique.

• At 37 pounds, it doesn’t technically weigh a ton, but moving it around feels like it. The company does make a smaller model, however, which weighs in at 27 pounds. In hindsight, that’s the model we wish we would have chosen.
• It’s super durable, made from marine-grade stainless steel. But its quality construction adds to the weight, and is probably overkill. This thing is so thick it could stop a bullet.
• It’s a bit pricy. The larger model is $949 and the smaller $695.
• The equal heat distribution is a double-edged sword. It helps with cooking consistency, but it also means there aren’t varied temperature cooking zones.

Our Conclusion: A Positive Life Upgrade, Mostly

We’ve been using the electric grill for about two months now, and during that time, we have yet to relight its propane equivalent. That now sits on the porch, lonely, except for the black widow who took up residence underneath.

Yes, the old beast did excel a bit with flavor, but reducing our health risks is a worthy tradeoff. Plus, the new grill is so much more convenient. It’s far easier to clean. We don’t have to stand outside and monitor it when it’s 10 degrees and snowing. And, as an added bonus, we never have to worry about running out of propane.

But, we’re not getting rid of our old grill, either. It still has a place, especially on those camping and road trips where electricity isn’t always at our fingertips. And, probably also for that occasional perfect cut of meat, which deserves the splurge of flame broiling.

RELATED:

• The Real Reason Aluminum Foil Has a Shiny Side and a Dull Side
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• Why You Shouldn’t Crush Aluminum Cans Before Recycling

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Tons of People Tape Their Windows Before Storms, But Does It Actually Work?

With intensifying storm seasons, prepping our homes for disaster is at the forefront of a lot of our minds. But there’s plenty of faulty advice out there for what actually works, especially when it comes to putting tape over windows.

“The tape myth is everywhere before a storm,” says window specialist Phil Adkins. “You see it on social media and in the background of news footage shot outside hardware stores. And the logic behind it feels intuitive at first glance. It feels proactive. It feels like preparation.”

But in reality, all that tape mostly creates a sticky mess and fosters a false sense of confidence that ultimately detracts from more effective storm-protection measures. Here’s more about why putting tape on windows does and doesn’t work, plus some better solutions.

Why Do People Put Tape Over Their Windows in a Natural Disaster?

In preparation for a storm or other disaster, some home and business owners put tape across their windows in an X or grid pattern. The idea is that if the glass breaks, the tape will hold it together, preventing dangerous shards from flying inward.

The practice dates back to at least World War II, when people in London used tape to reduce injury from the percussive force of bomb blasts. “Pictures from that era show taped windows across entire city blocks,” says Adkins. Then, “when hurricane season coverage started dominating American news years later, the practice got picked up again.”

Does It Work?

No, at least not when it comes to keeping glass from breaking during hurricanes and other high-wind events. “There is absolutely not a lick of credible building science or disaster research that supports the idea,” says window specialist Dax Kirks. “Tape does not change the wind pressure and impact threshold that causes glass to break.”

Conversely, taping windows is likely to do more harm than good, says window specialist Leo Alabovitz, because it increases the chances of the whole window panel being forced out. That larger hole then allows the hurricane’s exterior pressure to penetrate the home, causing greater damage.

Also, while the tape in WWII London probably did help glass withstand percussive forces and flexing, modern windows are designed to shatter into smaller pieces, so in some instances, tape actually creates larger, more dangerous shards.

Plus, removing all that adhesive residue from the windows after the storm is a horrible hassle and can also damage the glass.

The one instance in which Adkins would recommend using tape on windows is when you have a crack in an older single-pane glass panel and want to slow its spread. “But that’s a narrow use case, and it’s not what most people are thinking about when they reach for the roll before a hurricane,” he says.

How to Prevent Your Windows From Shattering in a Natural Disaster

While no solution is guaranteed, there are several ways to minimize the risk of shattered windows.

Impact-Resistant Glass

Hurricane-rated windows are often the best, yet most expensive way to go. They have a laminated construction, similar to car windshields, designed to withstand strong winds and impacts from flying debris. They sometimes also qualify you for an insurance discount, too.

Storm Shutters

Storm shudders are another effective and permanent solution for hurricane-prone areas. They come in accordion, roll-down and panel styles. “The upfront cost is significant, but [modern designs] deploy in minutes and provide real, measurable protection,” says Adkins.

Plywood Panels

Plywood is a more affordable option, which is also genuinely effective when installed correctly, says Adkins. Use exterior-grade plywood that’s at least 5/8-inch thick, and anchor panels to the wall framing rather than the window frame. Pro-tip: “Pre-cut panels to fit each window before storm season and label them so installation is fast under pressure,” says Adkins.

Window Film

Security film (aka safety film) applied to glass is designed to hold shattered pieces together after impact. It’s invisible and the most cost-effective permanent solution.

“It does what tape claims to do, and it does it much better,” says Adkins. “It won’t stop a two-by-four traveling at 100 miles per hour, but for wind-driven debris and minor impacts it provides a meaningful improvement over bare glass.”

Fabric and Screen Systems

Hurricane screens made from high-strength woven fabric are a newer option. They’re rated for wind and debris impact, store compactly and are faster to set up than plywood. “They’re higher cost than plywood, but more practical for frequent use, plus easier on the window trim over time,” says Adkins.

Tape

For those who still feel the need to use tape, at least go with blue painter’s tape rather than packing or duct tape, says Adkins, since it leaves less residue. Apply it in a grid pattern to distribute the force of flying objects more evenly and remove it as soon as possible, before heat causes it to cure onto the glass.

About the Experts

• Phil Adkins is president of Adkins & Sons, a southeastern Michigan-based company specializing in replacement windows, doors, siding and carpentry projects.
• Leo Alabovitz is founder and CEO of JMI Windows and Doors, a Florida-based company specializing in high-quality impact windows, doors and flood protection solutions.
• Dax Kirks is operations manager and co-founder at Best Buy Windows & Siding in Dallas, Texas.

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Can a Hot Vehicle Seriously Burn Your Skin?

Anyone who has left their car in the sun knows it can get hot, but can it get dangerously hot? That is…hot enough to burn you? To answer that question, ask yourself another one: Would I touch a surface hot enough to fry an egg? If you can answer yes to this question, you’ve got an unusually high pain tolerance. Most people would answer no.

In the part of California where I live, temperatures are more moderate than in the rest of the state, or the Southwest as a whole, but even I know not to grip the steering wheel too tightly or touch the dashboard when the car has been sitting in the sun. According to attorney Kasey Klenda, you can definitely get burned, and he has the experience with injury claims to back up his warning.

This post will help you identify the parts of a car that are most dangerous to touch after it has been sitting in the hot sun.

Can You Get Burned By the Outside of a Hot Car?

To start with, it depends on where you live, as insurance specialist Melanie Musson explains: “If you live in the Northern states, your car may get hot, but you’ve probably never gotten burned. But if you live in the Southwest, where it’s sunnier and hotter, the chances of burning yourself go much higher.”

The color of your car matters. W&W Auto Detailing conducted a temperature test on various vehicles on a 120-degree day and found that the surface temperature on a black car was over 200 degrees, while on a white car it was only 140 degrees. According to OSHA guidelines, 140 degrees is hot enough to require burn protection, so both cars could burn you, but the black car would do it faster.

Can Leather Car Seats Get Hot Enough to Burn You?

Yes, says Klenda. “Seating surfaces of leather and vinyl can actually get hot enough to result in skin irritation or a first-degree burn with direct contact.” Again, a color rule applies: Dark colored seats get hotter than light colored ones and are less likely to merely irritate and more likely to produce a first-degree burn.

Can a Car Steering Wheel Burn You?

When I get into my Subaru on a hot day with the sun beating through the windshield, the steering wheel is almost impossible to touch. I try to touch it as little as possible until the A/C cools down the cabin or I drive into the shade. Could it burn me if I held on?

My instincts say yes, and Klenda and Musson agree, sort of. “Your steering wheel could burn you,” says Musson, but she then adds a qualifier: “Especially if it’s dark and absorbs the sunlight.” My steering wheel has a light colored covering, so it may be safe, but I’m not in a hurry to find out.

Can a Car Seat Buckle Burn You?

The seat belt buckle is the part of your car’s interior that’s most likely to burn you on a hot day. It’s one of the worst causes of burns from a hot car, says Musson, and Klenda adds that they can burn skin on contact. You should always wait for the cabin to cool down before you buckle up.

How to Avoid Getting Burned by Your Car

“Prevention is better for avoiding injuries,’ says Klenda. Here are some preventative techniques to keep you safe — and unburned — in your car:

• Park in the shade whenever possible;
• Put up a windshield sunscreen when you leave your car in the sun;
• Cover the seats with a light-colored towel in hot weather;
• Touch surfaces with the back of your hand before grabbing onto them;
• Leave the doors open for a minute before you get into the car;
• Keep the windows cracked to create an airflow.

About the Experts

• Kasey Klenda is an Attorney-at-Law and Partner at Shull & Klenda. He regularly handles motor vehicle, serious injury, product liability, and child safety-related matters.
• Melanie Musson is an insurance and finance expert associated with Clearsurance. She specializes in the auto industry, real estate, home security, consumer analysis, investing, and finance.

Sources

• AB Tech: OSHA Burn Protection; (2026)
• YouTube: W&W Auto Detailing: How Hot is your Car on a 120 Degree Day? Temperature Readings Inside and Out during Summer; (2018)

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• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
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Massive Takata Recall Puts Millions of Drivers on Alert Over Air Bag Safety

If you haven’t yet, it might be time to start familiarizing yourself with the parts of your vehicle, as well as the brands that make them. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) just announced another air bag recall. This time, tens of millions of vehicles are under a Do Not Drive warning because the bags are not operating as designed. If your vehicle is included in this Takata air bag recall, you’ll need to get it repaired immediately; if you don’t you’re at serious risk of injury or even death.

Why Is There a Takata Air Bag Recall?

Per the NHTSA announcement, the issue is somewhat weather related.”Long-term exposure to high heat and humidity can cause these air bags to explode when deployed,” the brief warns. “Such explosions have caused injuries and deaths.”

This isn’t the first time Takata air bags have faced scrutiny. There was also a large recall of Takata air bags back in 2019. To avoid any confusion about who is and isn’t in danger, the NHTSA clarifies that “unlike the air bag inflators in the larger Takata recalls, this recall involves non-azide driver inflators.” So even if you already dealt with a similar issue, you’re not necessarily out of the water. Play it safe until you know for sure.

Who’s Affected?

The Do Not Drive warning affects tens of millions of vehicles including:

• 2002-2003 Acura 3.2 TL
• 2003 Acura 3.2CL
• 2000-2006 BMW 3 Series (E46) including M3
• 2000-2003 BMW 5 Series (E39) including M5
• 2000-2004 BMW X5s (E53)
• 2007–2009 Chrysler Aspen
• 2005-2015 Chrysler 300
• 2005–2011 Dodge Dakota
• 2005-2010 Dodge Magnum
• 2005-2015 Dodge Charger
• 2005-2014 Dodge Challenger
• 2004–2009 Dodge Durango
• 2003–2010 Dodge Ram
• 2003 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2004-2011 Ford Rangers
• 2005-2006 GT
• 2005-2014 Mustang
• 2006-2012 Fusion
• 2006-2012 Lincoln MKZ/Zephyr
• 2006-2012 Mercury Milan
• 2007-2010 Edge
• 2007-2010 Lincoln MKX
• 2001-2002 Honda Accord
• 2001-2002 Honda Civic
• 2002 Honda CR-V
• 2002 Honda Odyssey
• 2003 Honda Pilot
• 2002-2003 Infiniti QX4s
• 2007–2016 Jeep Wrangler
• 2004-2009 Mazda B-Series
• 2003-2013 Mazda6
• 2006-2007 MazdaSpeed6
• 2004-2011 RX-8
• 2004-2006 MPV
• 2007-2012 CX-7
• 2007-2015 CX-9
• 2006–2009 Mitsubishi Raider
• 2002-2006 Nissan Sentras
• 2002-2004 Nissan Pathfinders
• 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibes
• 2004-2005 Toyota RAV4s
• 2003-2004 Corollas, including Matrix

Is There a Fix?

The NHTSA says that if you own one of the vehicles on the list, you can confirm that yours needs repair through their Recalls Lookup page. Search with your vehicle identification number (VIN) and you should be able to see immediately if there’s a Do Not Drive warning or an outstanding recall. If so, the organization urges you to “immediately call your dealer to schedule a free repair. Replacement parts for these vehicles are available.”

Sources

Takata Recall Spotlight, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

Critical Do Not Drive Warning for Certain Vehicles with Takata Air Bags, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2026.

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Are Today’s LED Headlights Too Bright for Safe Driving?

I have been driving and working on cars since before I had a driver’s license. In almost 60 years, I have witnessed tremendous advances in vehicle safety and technology. Our cars have been transformed into highly computerized, efficient vehicles with advanced driver assistance and safety features, cleaner powertrains, and dramatically increased reliability.

One of the more controversial safety aspects of modern cars is the use of LED headlights. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “Driving at night is three times as risky as driving during the day.” LED headlights are brighter than previous type headlights and greatly improve driving safety by illuminating more of the road in front of us, helping to avoid an accident. However, the intense output of modern LED headlights can pose a danger by blinding drivers coming in the opposite direction, particularly on dark, hilly and curved roads.

This is especially true for older drivers, like me. The blinding glare from LED headlights can be so bad it keeps me from driving at night. Read along as experts in the field explain why modern LED headlight technology has improved driving conditions but has created new risks.

All “Light” Measurements Aren’t the Same

Just to clear things up:

• Use the lumen output rating rather than candlepower to compare the brightness of two light bulbs.
• Lumens are the total amount of light produced by a light source in all directions; a light bulb.
• Candlepower measures the intensity of a light source in one direction; a flashlight.
• Kelvin (K) is not related to lumens or candlepower, as it measures the color temperature of light. For reference, 5500 K is equal to the color temperature of sunlight at noon.

Why Are LED Headlights So Much Brighter Than Older Headlights?

Modern LED headlights produce a much tighter-focused whiter beam that mimics daylight. This makes them seem brighter even when their lumen output isn’t significantly higher. Their fixed optics and higher color temperature, up to 15,000K, easily light up road signs and dark roads, but can also create glare in the eyes of drivers coming the opposite way.

Why Are LED Lights the Standard Now?

Manufacturers switched to LED headlights because they’re more efficient, longer lasting, compact and fit nicely into modern headlight designs. Modern LED headlamps also allow manufacturers to design cars with less drag and different body styles that help increase fuel economy.

They also use far less power than halogens. Halogens typically draw 55 to 65 Watts per bulb (110 to 130 Watts total for two headlights), with most of that energy lost as heat. LEDs typically draw 15 to 30 Watts per headlight module (30 to 60 Watts total for two headlights) while creating clear, sharp light output.

How LED Headlights Work vs. Older Headlights

LED headlights work by passing electricity through many small diodes (semiconductors or microchips) rather than a traditional filament found in halogen or incandescent headlamps. The diode converts electrical energy into a bright, white light through a process called electroluminescence, which releases electrical energy in the form of photons—or light energy. LED headlamps throw a brighter, longer, wider light that helps increase road visibility. On older headlights, electricity heats tungsten filaments, causing them to glow. Most of the electrical energy becomes heat, not light.

• Halogen headlights are conventional incandescent light bulbs that use a tungsten filament housed in a quartz glass bulb filled with halogen gas. Typical output is between 700-1,200 lumens and a yellowish 3,200K.
• HID (High‑Intensity Discharge) headlights do not use filaments. They generate a controlled electrical arc inside a glass, xenon-filled gas capsule. Typical output is between 3,000-4,500 lumens and a whiter 4,300K to 6,000K.
• Incandescent (sealed) headlights also use a tungsten filament, but use an inert gas, such as nitrogen. Typical output is between 700 to 1,200 lumens and a warm yellow 2,700-3,000K.

Why LED Light Feels Harsher to Oncoming Drivers

The optics built into LED headlight capsule/lens assemblies (CLA) are precisely designed and shaped to cleanly slice the light beam in two, creating an acute horizontal line (called the cutoff). Light below the cutoff illuminates the road. Everything above the cutoff is deliberately dark. The sharp, concentrated light at the cutoff can feel harsh to oncoming drivers.

Additionally, according to a recent study by Chaiking Trial Group, although the cutoff is engineered to reduce glare, “The intensity of the light at the cutoff can make the boundary appear harsh or piercing, especially to older drivers whose eyes recover more slowly from bright light.” The study also notes that this contributes to “Disproportionately high number of fatalities due to headlight glare suffered by drivers aged 65 and older.”

Are LED Headlights Blinding Other Drivers?

Technically, no. Although glare complaints have increased, LED headlights are not designed to blind anyone. However, when a full-size pickup or SUV with higher-mounted headlights comes opposite to a compact or sedan that sits lower to the ground, the searingly bright LED beam is at the other driver’s eye level.

Dirty, cloudy, or oxidized, composite headlights or “any type of headlights that are even slightly misaligned can make the glare worse,” said ASE Master Technician Joe Simes. According to Ian Chaikin of Chaiking Trial Group, “Many drivers of all ages find headlight glare to be at least an annoyance, and at worst, a potential danger factor.” To help address this problem, manufacturers are equipping cars with adaptive and self-leveling LED headlights and automatic high-beams that illuminate the road ahead without blinding other road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Are LED Headlights Safe?

Yes. LED headlights greatly improve visibility, giving drivers additional reaction time. As LED headlights became standard, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) developed its own headlight rating program. According to the Chaiking study, IIHS first ratings in 2016 showed, “Only one out of over 80 headlight systems evaluated was rated ‘good’.” Based on 2025 ratings, 51 percent of the headlights tested by IIHs were rated ‘good’. 16 percent were ‘marginal’ or ‘poor’, compared to 82% in 2016.

“Safety depends on proper aim, clean, clear lenses, a clean, fog-free windshield and lights that meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and [are] legal for on-road [use],” Simes added.

What the Research and Safety Data Say

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) (which maintains nationwide crash data between 2019-2023), road crashes at night and in non-lighted areas accounted for 46,154 fatalities. 446 of those were due to glare hindering the driver’s vision. “Out of around 24 million total crashes, fewer than 150,000 had glare coded as a contributing factor, and a far smaller fraction were both coded for glare and occurred at night,” reported the IIHS.

However, according to CBTNews, IIHS headlight safety ratings have unintended consequences. Brighter headlights often score higher in controlled tests giving manufacturers strong incentives to increase brightness levels to earn better ratings and a competitive edge. Overall, the data show that the safety benefits of high-quality, well-adjusted LED headlights far offset the issues linked with glare from overly bright LED headlights. In fact, IIHS data found no indication that headlight improvements have led to an increase in glare-related crashes.

Federal Headlight Brightness Standards

According to Chaikin Study, the Official U.S. headlight standards for minimum and maximum brightness have been unchanged since 1997. All headlights in the U.S. must comply with FMVSS 108 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards), which sets requirements for light intensity, beam patterns, color, and durability. Headlights must emit white or soft yellow light and be properly aimed to avoid blinding other drivers.

There are no exact minimum or maximum federal output ratings for headlights. For example, FMVSS output for a low beam is, “Few hundred candela straight ahead so drivers can see down the road.” While high beams are required to produce several thousand candela straight ahead for long‑range visibility, with a limit of 75,000 candela at the center point [of the bulb].

75,000 candela doesn’t mean 75,000 lumens, Kelvin or Watts. For example, efficient optics of an LED headlight CLA concentrate the light of a 1,500 to 2,000‑lumen LED high beam into a tight, extremely strong, bright narrow beam. Factory-installed LED headlights are legal because they meet these federal standards.

“The PennDot Vehicle Inspection Regulations state, 7,500 candle power is the minimum for a low beam and minimum candle power not less than 10,000 candle power for the high beans” said Simes. In PA, the maximum total for head lamps and auxiliary lamps is 150,000 candlepower

Can You Adjust Your LED Headlights to Reduce Glare?

Yes. Most headlamp CLA can be vertically adjusted. Simes noted, “Even a slight turn can make huge changes to the light’s direction. Make sure your [car is] on level ground, set tire pressure, ensure there is no excess weight in the passenger compartment or trunk/frunk before adjusting.” If the vehicle has bubble levels built-in to the CLA, always adjust them first. Also, to help decrease glare for oncoming drivers, check suspension height and avoid aftermarket “retrofit” LED bulbs.

LED Headlights vs. Halogen: Which Is Safer for Your Car?

LED headlights are safe. Although LED headlamps do have a few drawbacks, they offer many advantages over other type headlamps. While halogens are less likely to cause glare to oncoming traffic, LED headlights are efficient, long-lasting and provide excellent forward visibility. The key to making LEDs safe for oncoming drivers remains proper aim, clean, clear headlight housings and using bulbs designed for your specific headlight assembly.

FAQs

What can I do to help reduce headlight glare?

Besides what is mentioned above, be sure to clean and check your windshield wipers are clean and in good shape, and your washer fluid is full. Dim the dashboard lights and adjust the rearview and outside mirrors to prevent getting blinded by the car behind you. Make sure prescription glasses are clean or try a pair of anti-reflective glasses to help lessen glare. Even though I had my cataracts replaced, I still find it difficult driving at night, especially in the rain, and reduced my speed when facing oncoming traffic.

Experts

Joe Simes has over 20 years of experience as an ASE and Toyota Master Technician. Joe’s insight as PennDOT certified emissions and safety inspection instructor and inspector gives him a unique perspective on everything headlights and headlight adjustment. Joe also served as the deputy fire chief and training officer (retired) for Montgomery County, PA. (Phone and email communication Apr 16, 2026)

Ian Chaikin is the founder Chaikin Trial Group. Ian earned his degree in Banking and Finance from Hofstra University in 2001 and his law degree from the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University in 2004. He has extensive experience in vehicle accident investigation, analyzing evidence and identifying negligence. (Phone and email communication Apr 20, 2026)

Resources

CarLightVision: “How to Reduce Headlight Glare for Safer Night Driving: Tips & Maintenance Guide” (Apr 17, 2025)

CBTNews: “Modern car headlights are too bright – here’s why they are dangerous”

Chaikin Trial Group: “How Dangerous Are Modern LED Headlights?” (Apr 14, 2026)

IIHS: “Headlight complaints abound, but glare-related crashes haven’t increased” (Oct 2025)

IIHS: “Headlight glare in police-reported crash data: prevalence, contributing factors, and potential effects” (Oct 2025)

Kelly Blue Book (KBB): “What Are Auto-Leveling Headlights?” (May16, 2024)

LegalClarity: “DOT Headlight Regulations: Requirements and Penalties” (Apr 1, 2026)

Matt Clamp, at Scrap Car Comparison

NHTSA, FARS: “Detailing the Factors Behind Traffic Fatalities on our Roads” (Apr 14, 2026)

State Farm: “Night driving and headlight glare” (Mar 10, 2025)

U.S. National Archives, Code of Federal Regulations: “Title 49, Subtitle B, Chapter V, Part 571, Subpart B, § 571.108” (Amended Apr10, 2026)

USAToday: “Some LED headlights can be painfully bright. Are they legal?” (Feb 15, 2026)

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What the Lincoln Memorial’s Algae Problem Teaches Us About Water Feature Maintenance

By now, most of us have seen images of the soupy-green colored Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The algae bloom came just days after the more than $14 million restoration was completed. Ironically, the project began when President Trump ordered the bottom to be painted “American flag blue” to transform it from what he described as “filthy” into a “beautiful” site for the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

It’s yet to be seen whether the sliminess will recede before the 4th of July; however, the calamity does offer some important insights for those of us with water features at home.

“The lesson is pretty familiar,” says home maintenance expert William Boynton. “Green water can show up fast once summer conditions kick in. That does not always mean the whole system is broken, just that water conditions shifted enough for algae to take advantage.”

Here are some takeaways from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool for how you can prevent algae from taking over, and why water features are so hard to maintain in the summer.

What Went Wrong With the Reflecting Pool Renovation?

An Interior Department spokesperson told CNN that it was caused by “residual algae from the supply lines, which had been sitting dormant for eight weeks.” But, many experts have suggested that it’s likely more complicated than that.

Other underlying causes could include which water source was used for refilling the pool, the removal of beneficial bacteria and biofilm, a streak of hot weather and the new darker paint color, which absorbs more sunlight and heat.

Causes of Algae in Water Features

Algae thrives in shallow water where there’s ample sunlight, which is why it’s especially difficult to maintain water features in the the summer. It’s growth is furthered by poor water circulation and nutrients from fertilizer runoff, bird poop and the breakdown of pollen, leaves and grass clippings.

Is Algae Dangerous?

It can be. Besides looking and smelling bad, certain forms of algae are toxic. More commonly, though, the biggest issues at home are clogged filters, damaged pumps and slippery surfaces.

If your water feature uses chlorine, algae can also consume that, allowing more harmful things to grow, which pose health concerns like E. Coli, Legionnaires’ Disease and Norovirus, says water monitoring expert Justin Miller.

Another downside of algae is the ecological damage it can cause by reducing dissolved oxygen levels. “These declines can be so extreme that they kill all fish and other beneficial aquatic life living within your feature,” says home-buying expert Mike Otranto.

How to Keep a Home Water Feature Clean

Algae is a fact of nature, so your goal shouldn’t be to make conditions impossible for it to grow, but rather to keep the water environment balanced, so it can’t take over, says Boynton. “Algae is not always a sign that a water feature is broken. It is often just a sign that nature found an opening,” he says.

That means it’s imperative to say proactive about preventing algae by:

• Skimming out leaves and debris, before they break down in the water.
• Cleaning the filter and pump baskets, at least once a week.
• Keeping water levels high enough to not strain the pump.
• Brushing or cleaning surfaces before slime forms.
• Blocking sunlight with a shade sail or water plants like lily pads, which also take up extra nutrients.
• Ensuring good circulation, so the water gets amply filtered.
• Getting rid of stagnant areas.

Monitoring water chemistry and adding algicides can also be helpful, but circulation and debris management are really the keys, says Boynton, especially since chemicals can be harmful to fish, pets, kids and ecosystems in general. “A mistake I see people make is treating algae like a chemistry-only problem,” he says. “Since algae likes warm, still, nutrient-rich water, if the water is not moving well, or leaves and sludge are sitting at the bottom, chemicals are only going to buy you time.”

What Homeowners Can Learn From the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

No matter how much money and engineering go into a project, there is no substitute for understanding biology. “Aesthetically pleasing layers of blue paint can’t stop nature from doing what it wants to do,” says Otranto.

So, keeping a home water feature from turning green means both not underestimating the power of nature, as well as working with nature to create a balance. That can be particularly hard in the summer, but ultimately it comes down to staying on top all of the small maintenance habits, before it’s too late and water starts to look bad, says Boynton.

“The biggest lesson is that water features are living systems, even when they are manmade and highly designed,” he says. “Homeowners sometimes think a pond, fountain or reflecting pool will mostly take care of itself once the equipment is installed, but it usually does not work that way.”

About the Experts

• William Boynton is founder of HomeScore, a homeowner intelligence platform which analyzes home systems and maintenance trends to help homeowners make better decisions about their property.
• Justin Miller is co-founder and CEO of General Galactic Systems Inc., a creator of smart water monitoring products for consumer and commercial pools and spas, including Crystal Water Monitor. www.generalgalactic.io
• Mike Otranto is owner of Wake County Home Buyers in North Carolina and has worked in real estate for 15 years, helping people buy and sell houses, plus perform repairs and renovations.

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