How much should a headlight replacement cost?

Most people spend about $50–$150 to replace a single halogen bulb, and $500–$1,000 or more to replace a full headlight assembly, depending on the vehicle and part quality.

Headlights vary by type (halogen, HID, LED) and design (sealed unit vs. modular). This article updates you on typical price ranges, the factors that influence quotes, and tips to save while staying safe on the road.

Two main routes: bulb vs assembly

Prices vary depending on whether you're replacing just a bulb or the entire headlight assembly. The list below gives typical price ranges you can expect for common setups.

• Bulb-only replacement (typical halogen headlights): Parts $5–$30; labor $40–$100; total commonly $45–$130.


• Aftermarket full headlight assembly (non-OEM): Parts $100–$350; labor $60–$120; total commonly $160–$470.


• OEM/full headlight assembly or premium LED/HID units: Parts $350–$1,000+; labor $60–$160; total commonly $410–$1,160+.

Prices can fluctuate based on the car model, local labor rates, and whether you choose OEM vs. aftermarket parts. It’s common for luxury brands or vehicles with advanced LED/HID systems to push toward the higher end of these ranges.

Cost factors that influence the final quote

Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for a headlight replacement. The following list helps explain why quotes vary from shop to shop and car to car.

• Vehicle make/model and headlight type (halogen vs. HID/LED, projector vs. reflector, sealed unit).


• Replacement part type (bulb vs. full assembly) and the choice between aftermarket vs. OEM parts.


• Labor rates in your region, and whether the quote includes alignment or aim checks after replacement.


• Warranty coverage or the lack thereof; some parts come with longer warranties that influence price.


• Additional services such as moisture seal inspection, lens restoration, or lens cleaning if replacement isn’t necessary.

Understanding these factors helps you compare quotes more effectively and choose a solution that balances cost with safety and longevity.

Ways to save on headlight replacements

Consider these strategies to reduce costs without compromising safety: get multiple quotes, ask for a price breakdown (parts vs. labor vs. alignment), compare aftermarket assemblies with OEM options, and check whether the shop offers bundled services or promotions. If your lens is simply cloudy, restoration rather than replacement may be a cheaper option; however, restoration is not a substitute for a damaged or failing assembly in all cases.

Another money-saving approach is to replace headlights in pairs when both sides show similar wear, which can sometimes prevent uneven aging and improve daytime brightness and color balance.

Summary

Headlight replacement costs range widely. Replacing a bulb is typically a modest expense, often under $150, while full headlight assemblies can run from a few hundred to well over a thousand dollars, especially for OEM parts or premium LED/HID setups. Labor, vehicle type, and regional rates all shape the final price. By obtaining multiple quotes, understanding the part options, and considering alignment and warranty, you can budget effectively while maintaining safety on the road.

How much should a headlight cost to replace?

Headlight replacement cost varies widely, from $20 for a basic halogen bulb replacement to over $4,000 for a full headlight assembly replacement on a luxury vehicle. The final price depends on whether you need a simple bulb or a full assembly, the type of technology (halogen, HID, or LED), your car's make and model, and whether you perform the labor yourself or hire a professional. 
This video explains the costs associated with replacing a headlight bulb or a full headlight assembly: 58sLearnToDIY360YouTube · Jan 30, 2025
By job type

Job Type	Estimated Cost (Parts + Labor)
Halogen Bulb Replacement	$30–$100
HID/LED Bulb Replacement	$100–$600 (or more)
Full Headlight Assembly Replacement	$300–$4,000+

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Factors influencing cost

• Bulb vs. Assembly: Simply replacing a burnt-out bulb is much cheaper than replacing the entire headlight assembly, which is often required due to damage or electrical issues. 
• Technology:
  • Halogen: The most affordable type. 
  • HID (High-Intensity Discharge): More expensive than halogen. 
  • LED (Light-Emitting Diode): Can be significantly more expensive, especially for advanced systems. 
• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury or high-end vehicles often have more complex and costly lighting systems, driving up the price. 
• Labor:
  • DIY: You can save significantly on labor by doing it yourself, especially for simple bulb replacements. 
  • Professional: Labor costs vary depending on the vehicle's complexity. Some cars have easily accessible headlights, while others require removing the front bumper or other parts to get to the assembly. 
• Parts: The cost also depends on whether you choose an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an aftermarket part. 

Will AutoZone replace my headlight for free?

No, AutoZone does not offer free headlight installation and does not have a free installation service, though some employees may help if they are not busy and the task is simple. For more complicated jobs, AutoZone will likely only provide you with the necessary parts and can help you find a professional mechanic to do the installation for you. 

• Simple bulb changes: An AutoZone associate may assist you with a simple bulb replacement, especially if you purchased the bulb from them. 
• Complex installations: If the bulb is difficult to access (for example, if it requires removing the bumper or battery), they will likely not be able to help and will guide you to a "Preferred Shop". 
• What to do: To increase your chances of getting assistance, call your local AutoZone to ask if they can help with your specific vehicle's model and the type of bulb you need. 

How much does a dealership charge to change a headlight bulb?

The average cost for a Headlight Bulb Replacement is between $176 and $206.

1. Labor costs are estimated between $62 and $91 while parts are priced between $113 and $115.
2. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

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.