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How to Replace Headlight Bulb

Aparna Jadhav
Replacing headlight bulb when needed can be an easy task. Read on to know how to replace the headlight bulb in just a few steps.
The cost of changing the car's headlight bulb is cheaper than getting the headlights changed. Would you like to save on all that cash and spend just 10 minutes in replacing the bulb all by yourself? If yes, then take a look at these simple tips on how to replace the headlight bulb of your car.

Step 1

The first thing you need to do is buy a bulb if you don't already have a spare. There is a different procedure for cars with sealed beam headlights and these steps are for basic headlight bulb replacement.

Step 2

All you have to do is pop open the hood safely and locate the bulb holder. It is the one which has three wires coming out of a plug that is shaped like a trapezoid.

Step 3

The three wires are fixed to a plug which is at the base of the headlight. This plug is held by a plastic catch, screw cap and a metal clip.
  • Plastic catch: There is a small lever that sticks up at the top of the plug. Press it down with your thumb and simultaneously pull the plug gently but firmly to slide it off.
  • Metal clip: You need to pull it up and away to let it come off in your hand. The clip is very tiny and hence make sure you don't lose it.
  • Screw cap: You simply need to unscrew it by turning it counter clockwise to open it.

Step 4

Remove the old bulb by simply pulling it out by holding onto the base. Rotate the bulb slightly to release it, if it doesn't come out quickly. Take a rag and clean off your hands before you touch the new bulb as the oil on your hands can burn out the bulb early.

Step 5

Hold the end of the bulb and stick it in the back of the light the same way you removed the old one. Make sure it's inserted completely inside by seeing if it is lined up evenly and none of its rubber gasket is visible.

Step 6

Plug the wires back in and re-secure the bulb by closing the hood. Test the bulb by switching on the headlights, and if the light is bright and white, you are good to go.
Those were some easy steps to replace the headlight bulb. Most of these cars come with a user's manual which explains how you can replace the headlight bulb in a step by step procedure, with illustrations, to make the job easier.