Step-by-Step Instructions for Headlight Replacement

Headlights can last between 500 to 10,000 hours, depending on your vehicle and the headlights it uses. However, at some point, headlight replacement may be necessary.

When that happens, you can save money by doing it yourself. Here are the steps to make the process easier.

How Do You Replace a Headlight?

Some headlights are part of an entire assembly, so you can’t simply change the bulb. If you need to replace the entire headlight assembly, it shouldn’t take long with most car models. If the job is straightforward, you are looking at less than an hour.

2012-2014 Toyota Camry SE OEM headlight assembly

However, your model might require that the entire front-bumper fascia be removed—or at least loosened—to reach the headlight assembly. For example, replacing the headlight on a Toyota Camry, Chevy Malibu, or Ford Fusion might be more challenging. It requires extra time, so give yourself at least two hours if you aren’t experienced.

2012-2014 Toyota Camry SE OEM passenger side headlight back

Before you start, we recommend two things:

• Buy a repair manual for your vehicle.
• Watch YouTube videos specific to your model and year.

These will help you understand the specific steps required for your model. Here are essential pointers for swapping headlight assemblies.

• Only work on the headlight assembly while the car is off, and the keys are out of the ignition.
• Remove all bolted- or clipped-on connections, including the wiring harness connected in the back
• Place any small pieces in a safe location for reassembly.
• Once you connect the new headlight assembly, try it before putting everything back together. Use the low and high beams to ensure everything is working.

Remember also to check the aim of the headlights using our guide to adjusting headlights.

How Do You Replace Headlight Bulbs?

Replacing headlight bulbs is much easier than swapping out the entire assembly. If you have a burnt-out bulb, it’s simple to put in a new one—although some models require removing the whole assembly.
If you can reach the bulb, follow these steps:

1. Turn the car off and take the keys out of the ignition.
2. Pop open the hood and locate the headlight assembly.
3. Disconnect the wires going to the headlight. You may need to push on a clip or tab to release them.
4. Take out the old headlight bulb, usually requiring a quarter-turn.
5. Put in a compatible headlight bulb.
6. Reconnect all of the wiring to the headlight bulb.
7. Put the headlight housing or any other removed parts back in place.

As you handle the new replacement headlight bulb, it’s crucial that you don’t touch it with your bare hands. The oils from your hands can damage the bulb. Instead, wear gloves while inserting the bulb.

What Kind of Headlight Bulb Do You Need?

When you shop for a new headlight bulb, the goal is to match the design of your current bulbs. It’s essential to buy the correct size and type when shopping for replacement headlight bulbs.

Four levels of SYLVANIA halogen headlamp bulbs are offered to meet specific needs.

Here are a few standard headlight bulb sizes and the corresponding vehicle.

• H11 headlight bulb: 2007-2020 Chevrolet Silverado, 2006-2021 Honda Civic
• 9003 headlight bulb: 2007-2020 Honda Fit, Kawasaki, and Harley Davidson motorcycles
• 9005 headlight bulb: 2001-2016 Toyota Corolla
• 9006 headlight bulb: 2000-2014 Subaru Impreza
• 9007 headlight bulb: 1996-2006 Chrysler Sebring, 1996-2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
• 9012 headlight bulb: 2004-2007 Nissan Maxima, 2011-2015 Chevrolet Volt

Some of these bulb sizes are also used for fog light applications. Your car may use the same size for multiple locations.

To find your headlight bulb size, check your owner’s manual. The size should also be imprinted on the bulb. Otherwise, you might need to search online based on your make and model.

You should also consider the headlight bulb type. Here are the most common examples.

• Halogen: These headlight bulbs contain a filament that provides light. These are the cheapest option but have a relatively short lifespan.
• Xenon/HID (High-Intensity Discharge): Xenon bulbs are often installed on luxury cars, containing a mix of argon and xenon gas to project a bright light. However, some drivers find them to be too bright for oncoming traffic.
• LED (Light-Emitting Diode): These bulbs illuminate based on electroluminescence and have a long lifespan. These efficient bulbs usually cost more than other bulb types.

To ensure a proper fit without any modifications, replace the current bulbs with the same size and type. However, there’s nothing you can do about the headlight bulb size. That must remain the same when you swap out bulbs.

In most circumstances, you can change or upgrade the headlight type. For example, if your car uses halogen bulbs but you want an upgrade, you may be able to buy a conversion kit for XID or LED.

Can Headlight Glass Be Replaced?

Broken headlights used to be a common sight. Back in the day, the fragile glass used in headlights was subject to shattering and cracking. The assemblies also rusted while the lenses fogged quickly.

Modern versions use nearly-indestructible plastic. Yet, they aren’t bulletproof. If the headlight takes a good hit, it can still crack. Not only that, the plastic degrades over time, leaving behind a foggy, dull look. If you want to replace the glass, your best option is to put in a new headlight assembly.

Some people try to restore the headlights first. High-quality headlight cleaners can make them look new again, making this an attractive task when compared to the cost of headlight replacement.

What’s the Cost to Replace a Headlight, Bulb, or Assembly?

The price for headlight replacement depends on what needs to be swapped out. In most situations, you’ll spend much less for a headlight bulb than an entire assembly. But, of course, the costs also depend on the vehicle type.

• If you can replace the bulb without swapping out the assembly, it’s pretty affordable. You may only spend $5 to $20. XID and LED bulbs cost a little more, possibly $15 to $75. This is a big jump, but they are still reasonable, considering how long they last.
• To purchase the new headlight assemblies, expect to spend between $50 to $350 each. If you can put the new headlight in at home, you can avoid labor charges. Otherwise, you could expect another hour or two in labor at a local mechanic.
• If you are upgrading the headlight assembly to a new type, expect to pay more. Often, modifications are needed for the upgrade that will likely add to the cost. You will need to purchase the assembly, ranging from $50 to $350 and all of the wiring or connectors to make the switch.