How to Change a Headlight Bulb

Difficulty: Beginner Time: 15–45 minutes

A burned-out headlight is a safety problem and a common reason to get pulled over. On many cars you can replace the bulb yourself in 15–30 minutes from behind the headlight, with no tools or just a screwdriver.

Some cars make it harder: on certain models you have to reach through the wheel well or remove the bumper cover. Check before you start so you know what you're getting into.

What you'll need

Step by step

1. 1

   Find the right bulb

   Headlight bulbs have a size code like H11, 9005 or H4. Look it up at a parts store with your year, make and model, or check your owner's manual. High and low beams often use different bulbs.

2. 2

   Turn off the car and lights

   Turn the engine and headlights off and let the bulb cool for a few minutes if it was on.

3. 3

   Get to the back of the headlight

   Open the hood and look behind the headlight housing. If there isn't room, you may need to turn the wheel and reach in through the wheel well, or remove an air box or cover. Your manual shows the access.

4. 4

   Unplug the connector

   Press the tab on the wiring connector and pull it straight off the bulb. Don't pull on the wires.

5. 5

   Remove the old bulb

   Most bulbs twist counterclockwise about a quarter turn and pull out. Some have a rubber cover or a wire clip to remove first.

6. 6

   Install the new bulb without touching the glass

   Hold the new bulb by its base, wearing clean gloves or holding a clean paper towel. Insert it the same way the old one came out and twist to lock it.

7. 7

   Reconnect and replace any covers

   Push the connector on until it clicks, and refit any rubber dust cover so moisture stays out.

8. 8

   Test both beams

   Turn on the headlights and check low and high beams on both sides.

Tips

• Bulbs on both sides wear out at about the same time. Replacing them in pairs keeps the light even and saves a second trip.
• If you accidentally touch the glass of a halogen bulb, wipe it with rubbing alcohol before installing it.
• Many parts stores will install a headlight bulb for free if it is easy to reach.
• If your headlights look yellow or cloudy, the plastic lens may need restoring; a new bulb won't fix that.

Not sure that's the problem?

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Frequently asked questions

How do I know which headlight bulb I need?

Look up your car's year, make and model at a parts store or in your owner's manual. Bulbs have codes like H11 or 9006, and high and low beams may use different ones.

Why shouldn't I touch a halogen bulb?

Oils from your skin create hot spots on the glass that can make the bulb crack or burn out early. Hold it by the base or use clean gloves.

Should I replace both headlights at once?

It is a good idea. They wear out at about the same rate, and matching bulbs give even light on the road.

I replaced the bulb and it still doesn't work. Why?

Check that the connector is fully clicked on and that the bulb is the right type. If so, the problem may be a blown fuse, a bad relay or damaged wiring.

More how-to guides

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