How to Change a Headlight

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How to Change a Headlight

Equipment Needed

• Owner’s manual
• Halogen headlight bulb specific for your car’s year, make and model

6 Steps to Changing a Headlight

1. Turn off your lights
   Before you get started, make sure you are parked in a safe place away from traffic and other
   hazards. Turn off your lights and make sure the bulb is not hot.




2. Consult the owner’s manual
   Determine what kind of bulb you need and where the bulb is located. On some cars you can reach
   the bulb by going through the hood.




3. Locate the bulb holder and remove the plug and bulb
   The bulb holder will have three wires coming out of a plug that is shaped like a trapezoid. The wires
   are attached to a plug at the base of the headlight itself, which is held by a plastic catch, a metal clip,
   or in some cases a screw cap. Once the wiring is removed, pull out the bulb by holding on the base. You might have to rotate the bulb to release it.
   – For bulbs held with a plastic catch: There should be a little lever. Press down with your thumb
   while firmly pulling on the plug, sliding it off.
   – For bulbs held with a metal clip: pull on the clip and the bulb holder should come right off.
   – For bulbs held by a screw cap: screw the bulb holder counterclockwise to remove it.




4. Put in the new bulb
   Be careful not to touch the glass of the new bulb with your skin. Halogen bulbs can get very hot and
   can explode if there is oil or dirt on them from your hands. If you must touch the bulb, use a nonlotioned
   tissue. Stick the new bulb into the back of the headlight, holding the end of the bulb. You can
   tell if the bulb is fully inserted if none of the rubber from the end of the bulb is showing.




5. Plug wiring back in
   Plug the wiring back in to re-secure the bulb.




6. Test the headlight

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