How much does it cost to replace a headlight on a Honda Civic?
For a Honda Civic, replacement costs range from a few dollars for a bulb to well over a thousand dollars for a full headlight assembly with LED or HID lighting. In most cases, you’ll pay more if you replace the entire unit than if you simply swap in a bulb.
Headlight costs depend on whether you’re replacing just the bulb or the entire headlight housing, the type of headlight (halogen, LED, HID), the model year, whether you buy OEM or aftermarket parts, and labor rates in your area. This article breaks down typical prices and what drives them, with guidance for buyers and DIYers alike.
What drives the cost
The total price you’ll pay is influenced by part type (bulb vs. housing), headlight technology (halogen, LED, HID), part source (OEM vs aftermarket), and labor time. Access to the headlight unit can also affect labor costs if a bumper or other components must be removed to reach it.
Below is a practical breakdown of common price points you’ll encounter when replacing a Civic headlight.
- Bulb replacement (halogen headlights): Bulbs themselves are typically $5-$60 depending on the bulb type and brightness. Labor is often 0.25-0.75 hours at typical shop rates, roughly $20-$120.
- Full headlight assembly replacement (halogen): The part usually runs about $150-$400 for aftermarket units or $250-$450+ for OEM. Labor generally 1-2 hours, adding roughly $80-$180, depending on local rates.
- Full headlight assembly replacement (LED or HID): Assembly prices are commonly $400-$900 for aftermarket units, $800-$1,200+ for OEM, with labor around 1-2 hours. All-in costs can range from about $500-$1,500 per headlight, depending on the year and trim.
In summary, the cost of replacing a headlight on a Honda Civic varies widely based on whether you’re changing a bulb or the entire headlight, plus the technology and part source. DIY bulb swaps are the most affordable route, while dealer or specialized shop installations for LED/HID assemblies tend to be the most expensive.
Costs by model year and headlight type
Different Civic generations use different headlight assemblies and mounting approaches. Accessibility, the presence of LED or HID components, and whether the unit is serviceable on the bench or requires bumper removal all influence price and time. Here’s a practical guide to expectations by headlight type and generation.
- Current-generation Civics (approximately 2016–2024) with halogen headlights: aftermarket assemblies commonly $180-$350; OEM $250-$450; labor $80-$150; total per headlight roughly $350-$900.
- Current Civics with LED headlights (some trims): assemblies typically $500-$900 aftermarket; OEM $800-$1,200; labor $100-$180; total per headlight often $900-$1,800.
- Older Civics (roughly 2012–2015) with halogen headlights: assemblies $120-$250; labor $75-$140; total $300-$630.
- HID-equipped or aftermarket HID conversions: assemblies $300-$700; ballast and related components add; labor $1 hour or more; total $400-$1,000+ per headlight.
Prices can vary by retailer, geographic region, and whether the part is new, refurbished, or sourced as a discount aftermarket unit. Verify compatibility with your exact Civic year, trim, and headlight type before ordering, and request a written quote that itemizes parts and labor.
Summary
The cost to replace a Honda Civic headlight depends on the scope of the work and the technology involved. Bulb replacements are usually a modest expense, often under $100 including labor. Replacing the entire headlight assembly is significantly more expensive, typically ranging from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand per unit for LED/HID variants, with labor adding another chunk. Always compare OEM and aftermarket options, consider DIY if you’re comfortable, and obtain a detailed estimate to avoid surprises.
