Learn how to replace a headlight bulb on your vehicle with this simple, step-by-step DIY guide. Get back on the road safely and save on repair costs.
Automotive
Where to find it
Behind the headlight, under the hood. Stand facing the front of the car, open the hood, and look at the back of the headlight on the side that's out. On some cars you reach it through the wheel well or by removing the headlight; your owner's manual shows the way for your car.
What it looks like
A round rubber or plastic cap, or a twist-lock socket, on the back of the headlight housing, with a wire plug attached. The bulb size is printed on the old bulb's base.
Tools Required (5)
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Parts (1)
Get the exact part. Parts change by year, make, model and engine. Give the parts store all four, or your VIN (it's on your registration, on the sticker inside the driver's door, and on the dashboard where it meets the windshield on the driver's side), and they'll match the right part for your vehicle.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1.
Park the vehicle on level ground and turn off the ignition and headlight switch.
2.
Pull the hood release lever near your left knee, prop the hood open, and let the headlight cool if it was on. Why: halogen bulbs get hot enough to burn you.
3.
Check your owner's manual for how to reach the bulb on your car: usually from behind the headlight under the hood, but some cars need access through the wheel well or removing the headlight.
4.
Give the parts store your year, make, model and engine, or your VIN, so they match the exact bulb. The size is also printed on the old bulb's base.
5.
Remove any dust cover, the round rubber or plastic cap on the back of the headlight, and move anything in the way, such as the washer fluid filler neck.
6.
Put on nitrile gloves. Why: oil from your skin makes a hot spot on the new bulb's glass that can make it burn out early.
7.
Disconnect the electrical plug from the back of the old bulb.
8.
Release the retaining clip or twist the bulb base counterclockwise to remove the old bulb from the housing.
9.
Insert the new bulb into the housing, lining it up with the mounting slots.
10.
Secure the bulb by re-engaging the retaining clip or twisting it clockwise until it clicks into place.
11.
Reconnect the electrical plug to the new bulb.
12.
Turn on the headlights to check the new bulb works before closing the hood.
13.
Replace any dust covers or parts removed to reach the bulb.
Want to see it done first?
The hardest part is usually starting.
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