How much does it cost to get a headlight bulb replaced?

Replacing a headlight bulb typically costs about $50 to $150 per bulb when you factor in parts and labor, with higher prices for HID or LED setups or if the entire headlight assembly must be replaced. This article breaks down why prices vary and where you’ll likely land for different scenarios.

What drives the cost

Several factors determine the final price tag for a headlight bulb replacement. The type of bulb, how easily you can access the bulb, the vehicle’s design, and where you have the work done all influence total costs.

Parts vs labor

Bulbs themselves are inexpensive in most cases, but labor can add significantly to the bill, especially if bodywork or bumper removal is required to access the headlight. Labor rates vary by region and shop.

Access and vehicle design

Some cars allow quick bulb changes from the engine bay, while others require dismantling parts of the bumper or trimming panels, which increases both time and cost.

Average costs by bulb type

Costs vary widely depending on the bulb technology. Below are typical ranges you can expect for common scenarios. Note that some shops have minimum service fees or charge extra for certain vehicles.

• Halogen bulbs: Parts typically around $5–$25; labor roughly $20–$100. Total commonly in the $25–$125 per bulb range, though some shops may charge a higher minimum.


• Xenon/HID bulbs and ballasts: Parts (bulbs) about $60–$150 and ballasts $60–$200; labor about $60–$150. Total usually in the $180–$450 range per headlight, depending on kit complexity and access.


• LED headlight bulbs: Parts about $25–$100; labor around $50–$120. Total typically $75–$220 per bulb, higher if a professional ensures proper cooling and aiming.


• OEM or dealership replacements: Parts often $50–$200; labor $100–$250. Total commonly in the $150–$450 range, with premium vehicles sometimes higher.


• Full headlight assembly replacement (bulb plus housing, when the module or lens is failing): Parts typically $200–$900; labor $100–$300. Total often $300–$1,200, or more for luxury or modern LED/HID assemblies.

Prices can vary by region, shop, and whether you need any additional services such as headlight alignment or weatherproofing checks after replacement.

DIY vs. professional service

Doing it yourself can save on labor, but it’s not always the simplest option depending on your car’s access and the bulb type. Professional installation helps ensure proper bulb seating, color matching, and safe handling, especially for high-voltage HID systems or vehicles with sealed LED modules.

• DIY halogen: Often straightforward and cost-effective; you may only pay for the bulb and a small tool kit.


• DIY HID/LED: More complex; risk of damaging ballast or wiring if done improperly; factory re-aiming may be needed afterward.


• Professional service: Generally recommended for HID/LED setups or if access requires disassembly; includes testing, alignment, and warranty considerations.

Whether you choose DIY or professional service will depend on your comfort level, the vehicle model, and how critical proper headlight alignment and aim are for safe nighttime visibility.

What to consider when budgeting

When budgeting, consider not only the bulb price but also potential extras like headlight alignment, weather sealing checks, and any required bumper or housing work. Some vehicles also require special tools or a dealer-level diagnostic for certain headlight technologies.

Accessibility, warranty, and maintenance

Access can push labor costs higher; some warranties cover certain headlight components or provide discounts for OEM parts. Routine maintenance or cleaning of headlight housings can also affect long-term costs.

Where you can shop for headlight replacements

Prices and service levels vary by venue. Common options include auto parts stores, independent repair shops, and franchised dealerships. Independent shops often offer competitive labor rates, while dealerships may provide OEM parts and stronger warranties for certain vehicles.

Summary

For a typical halogen headlight bulb, plan roughly $25–$125 per bulb when including labor, with higher costs for special cases. HID and LED upgrades or replacements generally range from about $180–$450 per headlight, depending on parts and access. Replacing the entire assembly can push totals into the $300–$1,200 range or more for premium vehicles. DIY can save money on simple halogen changes, but professional installation is wise for HID/LED systems or complex access. Always factor in possible alignment and warranty considerations when budgeting.

Bottom line: most drivers pay in the low to mid hundreds for a full, properly installed headlight replacement, but simple halogen bulb swaps can be much cheaper, and high-end setups or assemblies can significantly raise the price. If you’re unsure, call a few local shops for quotes to compare parts and labor before proceeding.

Who will change a headlight bulb for free?

You can get a free headlight replacement through programs like the non-profit Lights On!, which provides vouchers for free repairs at participating auto shops, often distributed by law enforcement during traffic stops. Another option is O'Reilly Auto Parts, which offers free installation of bulbs with purchase, though some vehicles may be excluded due to complexity, say O'Reilly Auto Parts customers on Reddit. 
Through community and law enforcement programs 

• Lights On!: This program partners with police to give vouchers for free light bulb replacements to drivers during traffic stops. 
  • It is intended to improve safety and police-community relations. 
  • The voucher typically covers the bulb and labor, but the driver is responsible for any additional work beyond the voucher's scope. 
• Local Sheriff's Programs: Some local law enforcement agencies have their own programs to help residents with low-cost auto light repairs. The National Association of Counties reports on these efforts, such as the Cook County Sheriff's Office Vehicle Light Replacement program. 

At an auto parts store

• O'Reilly Auto Parts: If you purchase a bulb from O'Reilly, they may offer free installation. 
  • This service is not guaranteed for all vehicles, especially those with hard-to-access bulbs that require extensive disassembly, say O'Reilly Auto Parts on Reddit users. 
• Autozone: While Autozone does not typically offer free installation, their employees can guide you through the process of changing the bulb yourself after you purchase it, says Jerry.ai. 

How much does AutoZone charge for headlight replacement?

The cost to replace a headlight at AutoZone varies depending on whether you need just a bulb or a full assembly. You can expect to pay from $10 to over $100 for a replacement bulb, while a complete headlight assembly can cost from $100 up to over $2,000. Many AutoZone locations also offer complimentary installation, but this can vary, so it's best to check with your local store. 
Part cost

• Halogen bulbs: These are the cheapest, with basic models starting under $20 each. 
• HID and LED assemblies: These are more expensive, with HID assemblies starting around $200-$400 and modern LED assemblies starting at $600 and going up, depending on the technology. 
• Full assemblies: If your entire headlight assembly is broken, the cost will vary based on the type and the vehicle. 
  • Vehicle-specific housings start around $100. 
  • Advanced LED and laser assemblies can exceed $2,000. 

Labor cost and installation

• DIY: You can save on labor costs by replacing the bulb yourself. 
• AutoZone installation: Some AutoZone stores offer free or low-cost installation for bulbs, though this can vary by location. You should call your local store to confirm their policy and if they can help with your specific vehicle. 
• Professional installation: If you need a professional to replace the bulb, it could cost between $200 and $1,000 depending on the vehicle's make, model, and the labor involved, according to AutoZone.com. 

What you can do

1. Determine your needs: Check if you need a replacement bulb or a full headlight assembly by visually inspecting the headlight unit.
2. Use the AutoZone website: You can use the AutoZone website to find the specific part needed for your vehicle and see the exact price. 
3. Call your local store: Before going to the store, call to confirm their installation services and pricing, as this can vary by location. 

Will AutoZone change a headlight bulb for me?

Yes, some AutoZone locations will replace headlight bulbs for you, but it depends on the specific store, how busy they are, and the complexity of the job. For simple bulb replacements, an employee may be able to help, especially if you are a customer who purchased the bulb there. For more difficult replacements that require removing other parts, they will likely decline and may be able to recommend a "Preferred Shop" to do the work for you. 
Factors that influence whether AutoZone will replace your bulb:

• Store policy: Some AutoZone locations have a policy against installing bulbs, while others are more flexible. 
• Employee availability: If the store is busy, an employee may not be able to help, regardless of store policy. 
• Task complexity: If the bulb is easy to access, an employee is more likely to help. However, if it requires removing other parts like the battery or bumper, it's less likely they will do it. 
• Your demeanor: Being polite and asking for help politely can increase your chances of getting assistance. 

What to do if you need help:

1. Call your local store first: Before you drive over, call your nearest AutoZone and ask if they can replace your specific headlight bulb. 
2. Purchase the bulb at AutoZone: If you're hoping for assistance, it's best to buy the new bulb from them. 
3. Be prepared for them to decline: If they say no, don't be discouraged. Ask if they can recommend a "Preferred Shop" that can handle the installation for you. 
4. Consider tipping: If an employee does help you, it is appropriate to offer a tip for their time and effort. 

How much should a headlight bulb replacement cost?

A headlight bulb replacement can cost anywhere from $20 to over $2,000, depending on the bulb type, labor involved, and whether the entire assembly needs to be replaced. A simple DIY halogen bulb replacement may cost as little as $10-$50, while professional installation for more complex LED or HID systems, or those requiring bumper removal, can cost several hundred dollars. If an entire modern headlight assembly is damaged, costs can soar to thousands of dollars. 
Cost factors

• Bulb type:
  • Halogen: The cheapest option, with bulbs costing roughly $10$ 10$10 to $50$ 50$50. 
  • HID (High-Intensity Discharge): More expensive, ranging from about $50$ 50$50 to $200$ 200$200. 
  • LED (Light-Emitting Diode): Can be more expensive, with bulbs starting around $30$ 30$30 and going up to $200$ 200$200 or more for a pair. 
• Labor:
  • Simple replacement: Many modern cars allow you to change the bulb yourself in minutes. Some auto parts stores offer this service for a small fee (e.g., around $10$ 10$10 at Walmart). 
  • Complex replacement: If the mechanic needs to remove the front bumper or other parts to access the headlight, labor costs can be several hundred dollars. 
  • Assembly replacement: Replacing an entire modern headlight assembly (due to damage, not just a burnt-out bulb) is expensive. Costs can range from $300$ 300$300 to over $2,000$ 2 comma 000$2,000. 

General cost breakdown

• Simple bulb replacement (DIY): $10−$50$ 10 minus $ 50$10−$50 for parts 
• Simple bulb replacement (with labor): $25−$100$ 25 minus $ 100$25−$100 for halogen, up to $600$ 600$600 for LED 
• Full headlight assembly replacement: $300−$2,000+$ 300 minus $ 2 comma 000 plus$300−$2,000+